Can UCLA maintain its new 'standard?' Five things to watch versus Maryland

The UCLA Bruins surprised everyone by defeating Penn State, raising questions about their potential performance against Indiana and Ohio State. This unexpected victory has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about whether UCLA can continue this momentum and achieve further success in their upcoming games. It's an exciting time for Bruins supporters as they hope for another thrilling outcome.

The discussion around UCLA's chances of making a bowl game in 2025 is heating up as they face tough opponents like Maryland, Indiana, Nebraska, Ohio State, Washington, and USC. Fans are curious if the team can secure victories against at least four of these formidable rivals. This matters because a bowl game appearance could significantly impact the program's reputation and recruitment efforts.

UCLA's men's basketball team demonstrated its defensive prowess in a recent exhibition match, securing a 67-60 victory over San Diego State. This win is significant as it highlights the team's ability to execute strong defensive strategies early in the game, setting a positive tone for the season ahead. Fans can look forward to a promising year as the team builds on this solid foundation.

UCLA secured a solid victory over SDSU with a score of 67-60 at Viejas Arena on October 17, 2025. This win is significant as it showcases UCLA's strong performance in the season, boosting their confidence and positioning them favorably in upcoming matches.

Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has made headlines again by donating $63 million to Morgan State University, marking her second significant contribution to the Maryland HBCU in just five years. This latest gift brings her total donations to the university to an impressive $103 million. Such generous support not only helps the university enhance its programs and resources but also highlights the importance of investing in historically black colleges and universities, ensuring they continue to thrive and serve their communities.

Michigan State's promising season under head coach Jonathan Smith is gaining attention, especially with quarterback Aidan Chiles expected to play against Indiana. This development not only boosts the team's chances but also highlights Smith's rising profile, as he is being considered for the UCLA head coaching position. The excitement around the team reflects a significant turnaround in their performance, making this game crucial for both their season and Smith's future.

Shareef O’Neal, son of NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal, has signed with the prestigious Wasserman Talent Agency, marking an exciting new chapter in his career beyond basketball. This move not only highlights Shareef's ambition to explore opportunities in the entertainment industry but also positions him under one of the leading agencies known for managing top talent. Fans and industry watchers are eager to see what projects and ventures he will pursue next, making this a significant moment for both Shareef and his supporters.

The Penn State football team has faced a dramatic downturn this season, going from hopeful to disappointing in just a few weeks. After a heartbreaking loss to Oregon during their White Out game, the team suffered consecutive defeats against UCLA and Northwestern, leading to the firing of head coach James Franklin. This situation is significant as it highlights the pressures and expectations in college football, especially for a program with such a storied history.

Freddy Peralta, the ace of the Milwaukee Brewers, expressed a mix of pride and uncertainty about his future with the team after their disappointing exit from the 2025 postseason, following a sweep by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS. His candid reflections highlight the emotional connection players have with their city and the harsh realities of professional baseball, where success can be fleeting. This moment is significant as it raises questions about the team's direction and Peralta's role moving forward.

Texas Tech's quarterback Will Hammond is set to start in place of Behren Morton for the upcoming game against Arizona State. This change comes as Hammond has seen action in five of the Red Raiders' six games this season, showcasing his readiness to step up. The decision highlights the team's strategy as they aim to secure a win in this crucial matchup.

Ange Postecoglou has been dismissed from his role as head coach of Nottingham Forest after only eight games, following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Chelsea. This swift decision highlights the club's urgent need for improvement and stability, as they seek to turn around their fortunes in the league. The change in leadership raises questions about the team's direction and the challenges ahead.

Ethan Grunkemeyer is set to make his debut as the starting quarterback for the Penn State Nittany Lions in their upcoming game against Iowa. This is an exciting moment for both Grunkemeyer and the team, as fans are eager to see how he performs in this crucial matchup. His first start could be a pivotal moment in the season, showcasing his skills and potential to lead the team.

The Scarlets continue to struggle in the United Rugby Championship, remaining winless after a disappointing loss to the Lions in Johannesburg. This defeat keeps them at the bottom of the league, raising concerns about their performance and future prospects in the tournament.

Afghanistan has decided to withdraw from an upcoming cricket series following reports that local players were killed in a recent airstrike in Pakistan. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises concerns about the safety of athletes amidst military operations. The Pakistani government claims the strike was aimed at militants, denying any civilian casualties, but the impact on sports and community morale is significant. This situation not only affects the cricketing ties between the two nations but also underscores the broader implications of conflict on cultural exchanges.