The fixes were in exactly where UCLA needed them after its clunker of a season opener and three underwhelming quarters Saturday evening.
An offense beleaguered by dropped passes caught on when there was no alternative, generating two long touchdown drives to start the fourth quarter.
A defense that softened after tackle Eddie Vanderdoes injured his right knee in the first half stiffened late.
A quarterback who had piled on the self-criticism bulldozed ahead one yard for the final touchdown.
UCLA’s 42-21 victory over Nevada Las Vegas at the Rose Bowl qualified as more of a sigh of relief than a bold declaration, though the distinction seemed insignificant after the Bruins avoided further disappointment to start their season.