UCLA vs. BYU
UCLA advanced to the quarterfinals with a 32-12 win over Air Force last weekend. Niall Barry, Seb Sharpe, and Erik Thompson are solid players but the big question is whether the rest of the team can step up and compete with BYU. The Bruins haven't exactly been the most consistent side this year as has been well documented. They will have to play like the team that only lost to Cal 18-12 and not the team that was blanked by Utah.
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The Cougars enter the match having not lost a single match all season. They have dominated their opponents with their closest matches coming against St. Mary's. That and their two matches against Utah were the only times they have given up more than 12 points to an opponent on the year. If there is one thing BYU hasn't really faced this year it's going on the road. They've made the trip down to St. George a couple of times but that's a home away from home for them. However, given their experience traveling in the past it shouldn't be an issue. Look for BYU to take this match in a big way.
The Cougars enter the match having not lost a single match all season. They have dominated their opponents with their closest matches coming against St. Mary's. That and their two matches against Utah were the only times they have given up more than 12 points to an opponent on the year. If there is one thing BYU hasn't really faced this year it's going on the road. They've made the trip down to St. George a couple of times but that's a home away from home for them. However, given their experience traveling in the past it shouldn't be an issue. Look for BYU to take this match in a big way.
Central Washington vs. Utah
The match between Central Washington and Utah has the potential to be a thriller. Both teams have tremendous rugby players with plenty of experience and are looking to break through into the top echelon of rugby teams in the country. Central Washington opened their Varsity Cup with a big win over Arizona State last week 72-10. Utah played Arizona State a few weeks ago and won 60-37. Both teams have outstanding players as well. Central Washington has the likes of Aladdin Schirmer, Josh Bower, and Scott Dean while Utah has Tonata Lauti and Danny Christensen.
Central Washington hasn't been tested much this year aside from a couple of friendlies against Seattle Saracens. However, in those matches the Wildcats looked pretty good and it allowed head coach Tony Pacheco to make adjustments ahead of the tournament. The Utes on the other hand have been extremely busy taking on BYU twice, St. Mary's, Cal, UCLA, and the Arizona schools. They also went on the road to do it. On paper Central Washington will be the favorite but expect this match to be close.
Texas vs. Cal
Cal head into their match against Texas on a roll having beaten two solid teams in St. Mary's and UBC. After a few struggles early (by their standards) Cal have turned it on as of late and are peaking at the right time. They make the trip to Austin to play a Texas team that beat Notre Dame 22-17. It's pretty safe to say that if Texas won this match it would be the biggest upset in college rugby history. Texas should win easily.
Navy vs. Clemson
Navy and Clemson are definitely familiar with each other having met quite a few times over the last few years. Their latest meeting came back in February in Charlotte where Navy won 50-22. They two teams also met back in November with Navy once again winning 50-22. Navy shook off a few cobwebs thanks to their 23-22 win over Dartmouth last week. After not having much of a chance to play so far this spring getting that win and playing time under their belts is crucial. At the heart of the Navy team is Jack McAuliffe. As he goes, so goes Navy.
Clemson of course come into the match on the heels of their big win over Arkansas State. The win has the potential to be a program changing win if the Tigers can follow it up with a victory over Navy. Aaron Keers was the hero last week and he'll have to be again. Navy will be the favorite having won the two previous meetings and playing at home but Clemson come in with plenty of momentum.