The UCLA Bruins faced a difficult defeat against the Washington Huskies on October 28, 2023, losing the game 48-14 at the Rose Bowl. Despite the scoreline, players took a moment to reflect on their experiences and memories made during their time at the iconic venue.
Garrett DiGiorgio, the redshirt senior offensive lineman, shared his thoughts as he made his way to the locker room. High-fiving fans above the tunnel, DiGiorgio remained cheerful despite the heavy loss. “Win or loss, the last five years for me have been amazing,” he stated. “I’m super grateful to be at this university and to be able to play in the historic Rose Bowl.” The emotional atmosphere was palpable, especially with family present for his final home game.
Athletic Director Martin Jarmond greeted every player and coach as they exited the field, echoing the support he had shown during pregame Senior Day festivities. The scene felt like a farewell, with emotions running high among the players and fans alike. Redshirt sophomore defensive back Cole Martin engaged with the crowd by tossing his gloves into the stands, creating a lasting memory for a young fan. Martin, who grew up watching UCLA play, expressed how significant the Rose Bowl is to him. “It makes me emotional thinking about it. The Rose Bowl means a lot to me,” he remarked.
Fresh Faces Shine in Defeat
In the midst of their fourth consecutive loss, several freshmen emerged as bright spots for the Bruins. Freshman defensive tackle Cole Cogshell, who had played sparingly, made a notable impact during the game. The Pasadena native recorded four tackles and achieved his first career sack, contributing to the team’s defensive efforts. Cogshell’s performance included a highlight moment where he tackled Washington’s backup quarterback, Kai Horton, for a nine-yard loss.
Another standout was redshirt freshman defensive back Jamir Benjamin, who has been a consistent presence on the team. In the fourth quarter, Benjamin recovered a fumble, scoring a touchdown after Kanye Clark forced the turnover. This marked Benjamin’s first fumble recovery, showcasing the potential of the younger Bruins even in a challenging game.
Despite the score, the final minutes saw freshman running back Karson Cox make his collegiate debut. Having aided the team in practice while dressed as a scout team member, he finally took the field, recording two carries for eight yards. His contributions, though small, symbolized the optimism for the future of the program.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the Bruins face uncertainty regarding their future at the Rose Bowl, which remains a critical venue for their identity. Players like Cole Martin and Garrett DiGiorgio emphasize the significance of this historic stadium, not just for its legacy but as a place of personal memories and connections.
While the defeat to Washington was a disappointing end to their home season, the stories and experiences shared by the players reflect the enduring spirit of the Bruins. They now look towards future opportunities, bolstered by the memories they created and the lessons learned during their time at UCLA.
