San Diego State football coach Sean Lewis is looking beyond just the game when his Aztecs face UCLA at the Rose Bowl on Saturday. Lewis has characterized the matchup as a battle against a more resourced opponent, referencing "all their polos, all their khakis, all their resources."
Lewis, whose team is entering the game as an underdog, suggested this is not the first time he has faced teams with greater advantages. "I’ve got plenty of experience where there’s a galaxy of stars and talents on the other sideline and I’ll take me and mine against theirs," Lewis said this week. He also alluded to UCLA's Los Angeles setting, stating his team is not there to "see some Hollywood set and see where ‘Gossip Girl’ was recorded." The Aztecs are coming off a decisive 53-20 victory over Portland State.
Lewis's remarks come as some believe he was a candidate for the UCLA head coaching position that ultimately went to Bob Chesney. Chesney made his UCLA debut last weekend, with reports noting his attire. Lewis indicated that while his team will show respect to the Bruins, the focus remains on San Diego State's own "standard" and "process."
Despite his provocative language, Lewis acknowledged UCLA's strengths. "Well-coached, a physical outfit, talented, all those things, right?" he said. Lewis pointed to the extensive combined career snaps of UCLA's offensive and defensive starters, highlighting the experience of the Bruins' roster, including specific examples like backup middle linebacker Trent Hendrick. "The pieces that they brought in, they’re an experienced crew," Lewis added.
Lewis invoked the movie "300" to describe his team's mindset. He recounted a scene where a Spartan warrior, facing overwhelming odds, laughs at the prospect of finally facing a worthy opponent. "Like, the best of the best want to compete against the best," Lewis stated. "So let’s go put the ball down and play. And I know that they’re going to be prepared because coach Chesney and his staff do a hell of a job. We’ll be prepared as well."