Despite an undefeated record, UCLA's football team struggles with low student attendance at the Rose Bowl. Coach Bob Chesney plans to boost engagement by having players personally connect with classmates, addressing the attendance dip and external criticism.
UCLA's undefeated football team, currently ranked No. 7, is facing a unique challenge: low student attendance at the Rose Bowl. Coach Bob Chesney believes his players hold the key to boosting turnout, urging them to get more involved in talking about the team with classmates to connect faces and stories to the squad. Student turnout appeared to dip noticeably for the game against Michigan State, with a crowd of 33,757, and Chesney observed students leaving early. UCLA's average home attendance of 33,172 ranks second to last in the Big Ten, though the athletic department offers free student tickets and cheap bus rides. The plan faces hurdles, as some quiet players like running back Jaivian Thomas admit they don't discuss football with classmates. However, linebacker Sammy Omosigho noted that simply wearing team gear can spark positive interactions. The team has also faced criticism, with one analyst comparing them to 'a rapper who raps with no substance,' a comment Chesney dismisses as irrelevant. He advises his players to ignore outside praise and criticism, focusing on their work, a strategy that seems effective given some players are unaware of the team's ranking. Chesney's ultimate goal is for the team to continue their work, avoid distractions, and reflect on their achievements at the end of the season.
