The UCLA Bruins open up their college football season against the Houston Cougars, and this game marks the return of redshirt senior quarterback Case Keenum. Keenum was injured last season while playing against UCLA, tearing his ACL on an ill-advised tackle attempt in the third quarter of UCLA's 31-13 victory.
Keenum is widely considered one of the most prolific passers in NCAA history, amassing 13,586 yards and 107 touchdown passes over his first four seasons in Houston. Given a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA in January, Keenum looks to avenge his injury with a big game against the Bruins at home.
While not a realistic candidate for the Heisman Trophy, Keenum earned respect in 2009 with his incredible statistics: 5671 yards thrown, 70% completion percentage, 44 touchdowns. Some writers even thought he should be given some Heisman hype, out of respect for his numbers.
It's going to be hot at kickoff, with the temperature expected to eclipse 100 degrees at game time. While Houston has been practicing in this weather, UCLA is not used to such extreme temperatures. Will Keenum come out rusty, or will his ax be sharp in preparation for Houston's biggest game of the season?
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