Texas A&M plays host to UCLA on Saturday in a big-name non-conference clash. The Aggies have been in something of a funk against good teams at home, and they don’t have time for a warmup this year as UCLA has a chance to be really good.
UCLA vs. Texas A&M 2016: Start time, live stream, TV schedule and 3 things to know
The Bruins and Aggies both need wins to start the season. Here’s how you can tune in, and what to watch for.
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
UCLA finished with a disappointing 8-5 record last year, but they had to deal with a devastating rash of injuries that sidelined the likes of defensive tackle Eddie Vanderdoes and linebacker Myles Jack. The Bruins are healthy again coming into 2016, and opening the season with a win in a tough place like Kyle Field would be a good statement that they’re ready to go.
Texas A&M had a nice run on the recruiting trail this summer, but much of the energy around the program right now is negative. They won a similar game to this one against Arizona State to start their 2015 season, and if they can do that again, it would give them some positive mojo to work with.
How to watch, stream, and listen
TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS (Verne Lundquist, Gary Danielson and Allie LaForce)
Online streaming: CBSSports.com
Spread: The Aggies are favored by about a field goal.
Make friends: Get to SB Nation’s team blog chats for this game at Bruins Nation for UCLA fans and Good Bull Hunting for Texas A&M fans.
A&M-UCLA could be all about QBs
Three big things to know
1. Texas A&M needs a win in the worst way
This has not been the most pleasant offseason for Texas A&M. Between the high-profile transfers of quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Kyler Murray, and the embarrassing conduct of several assistant coaches, Kevin Sumlin needs a big win at home over a name opponent to take the pressure off a little bit.
2. Showtime for Josh Rosen
UCLA has the potential to win the Pac-12 if Rosen is up to the task. The sophomore has incredible talent, and after a promising freshman season, it’s time for him to take it to the next level. He’ll have to contend with the Aggies’ potent pass rushing combination of Myles Garrett and Daeshon Hall, however, and they could make it a long night for him.
3. Trevor Knight’s time to shine
Knight is a former team captain at Oklahoma, but the rise of Baker Mayfield left Knight looking for a new team to play for as a graduate transfer. Knight found just that opportunity with Texas A&M, which had a sudden opening at quarterback following Allen and Murray’s transfers. Knight has the skill set to shine in A&M’s offense, and we’ll find out if he can hit the ground running for the Aggies.
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