All eyes (even those of Texas) are upon UCLA defense

A week ago, critics were picking apart the UCLA offense. Then the Bruins rolled up big numbers in a 42-35 victory over Memphis.

Now people are picking apart the Bruins’ defense, almost as thoroughly as Memphis did.

There remains faith within.

“We’re talented across the board,” defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich said. “I can’t single out a lot of guys. We have a lot of guys stepping up. We have a brand. We have an identity.”

The Bruins certainly should come away feeling good, after playing Texas in AT&T Stadium on Saturday night. Whether it will be a cure or a placebo won’t be known until the Arizona State game on Sept. 25.

Texas’ offense comes in missing its No. 1 quarterback, three starting offensive linemen and its top two receivers.

Coach Jim Mora said the Bruins’ defensive effort starts up front, with linemen Kenny Clark, Eddie Vanderdoes and Owamagbe Odighizuwa. Behind them are Eric Kendricks and Myles Jack, two of the Pac-12’s top linebackers.

“Kenny, Eddie and Owa are as much impact guys as Myles and Eric, just in a different fashion,” Mora said. “Their impact is letting Eric and Myles run because they are holding down double teams.”

As for Saturday’s game, Ulbrich was channeling some John Wooden.

“The mark of a player is being at your best when your best is required,” Ulbrich said. “Competitive greatness, like Coach Wooden said.”