Gary Beban optimistic about the current Bruins football team

Gary Bevan Sees Hope for UCLA Football

UCLA’s only Heisman Trophy winner knows the feeling of watching a football program struggle. The Bruins haven’t had much success lately, winning just a handful of games in some recent seasons, which certainly isn’t what fans are hoping for.

Reflecting on UCLA’s current state, Gary Bevan recalls his second year at the school. His memories are intertwined with the team’s ups and downs and the hope for better days ahead.

Back in 1965, everything clicked. That season, the Bruins stunned top-ranked Michigan State in the Rose Bowl, and Sports Illustrated dubbed them the “Miracle Bruins.” It’s a nice thought—can Coach Bob Chesney inspire his team to a similar comeback?

After attending a recent spring scrimmage, which the media couldn’t cover, Bevan shared his thoughts with the California Post. He feels an encouraging vibe among the players that wasn’t there before. “There’s a sense of spirit here that seemed to be missing,” he noted. “What I saw today, along with their direction and philosophy, seems promising. They have the right attitude, skills, and a taste of victory.”

Chesney might have had success at the Group of Five level, where he led James Madison to the College Football Playoff before coming to UCLA, but Bevan believes that winning can happen anywhere. “There’s a formula for victory at every level,” he stated. “Winning doesn’t solely emerge from lower-level play. I genuinely think we can win at a higher level if the players come together.” Bevan recently visited the campus for a UCLA Quarterbacks Reunion and participated in a charity fundraiser, bringing fond memories and optimism with him.

Leadership is key, Bevan adds. Looking back at his own playing days, he recalls linebacker Don Manning rallying the team with a bold statement: “We’re not going to lose in California.” At first, he was bewildered by this assertion, but Manning’s words resonated deeply. “We didn’t lose in California until my senior year against SC,” Bevan said. “To lift a program, that kind of leadership is essential.”

Chesney is actively searching for players who can step up and take charge, especially as many new faces join the team. “They need to figure out who’s going to lead on the field—coaches can’t do that,” Bevan remarked.

Bevan, often referred to as “The Great One,” is impressed with Chesney’s approach. “He’s focused and knows where he’s headed,” Bevan commented, which bodes well for the program.

Almost 60 years after his Heisman victory in 1967, Bevan remains hopeful that UCLA will produce another player worthy of that honor. “Yes,” he affirmed confidently. “There will be another winner.”

Meanwhile, Bevan is rediscovering a campus that has changed significantly since his days as a student. Back then, athletic facilities were modest, consisting of a few Quonset huts, compared to the modern structures now in place. “We needed a map to get around; everything feels different,” he mentioned, highlighting how much has transformed.

As Bevan approaches his 80th birthday, he plans to attend an upcoming ceremony commemorating his Rose Bowl victory over Michigan State, coinciding with another game against the Spartans on October 24. “This game will never lose its charm,” he said. “Winning that match is a part of who we are.”