The rivalry between the UCLA Bruins and USC Trojans goes all the way back to 1929, so it is understandable if years of deep-seated sports hatred causes tempers to flare. But both coaches and universities have gone out of their way this week to stress sportsmanship heading into this Saturday's game at the Rose Bowl, including Bruins coach Jim Mora.
Mora on Thursday addressed UCLA fans, imploring them to act civilly to their crosstown rivals in a 29-second video.
"I'm really looking forward to my first game against Southern Cal this Saturday at the Rose Bowl. As a team we cannot wait to get out there in front of all of you, our fans, at the Rose Bowl this Saturday to take on the Trojans," Mora said. "We certainly need your support, but I just wanted to remind you to let the rivalry play itself out on the field, and not in the stands, and not in the parking lot. Thanks again for your support, and go Bruins."
Saturday's 12 p.m. PT game will be televised by Fox, with the winner headed to the Pac-12 Championship Game as the south division victor.