Rick Neuheisel Celebrates His Son’s Play Calling After UCLA Victory: ‘Please, Don’t Make Me Cry!’ Live from CBS Studio

Rick Neuheisel’s experience on Saturday was unlike any other. What began as a typical day for the CBS analyst turned into a heartwarming father-son moment broadcast live. His son, Jerry, was named UCLA’s offensive play caller just days before leading the struggling Bruins to a stunning 42-37 victory over No. 7 Penn State.

Rick summed up the day perfectly: “I became a coach again.” He felt every emotion. As Jerry executed the game plan, Rick could hardly sit still. He was completely invested, forgetting to eat or drink while anxiously analyzing every play.

UCLA had a tough start with a record of 1-4 and recently fired coach DeShaun Foster and offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri. This opened the door for Jerry, a former UCLA quarterback, to take on the role of offensive coordinator under interim coach Tim Skipper. He had been working with the team but hadn’t called plays until this game.

During the game, CBS cameras zoomed in on Rick’s reactions. He laughed and groaned, often critiquing his son’s decisions. “Why didn’t you call a timeout?” he shouted at one point. The tension was palpable.

As the final seconds ticked away, Rick couldn’t contain his joy. “Get him down!” he yelled when UCLA secured the win. A moment later, he reflected on his reaction and offered an apology to Penn State fans, emphasizing that any parent would understand his emotional outburst.

What’s interesting is how Jerry’s journey mirrors Rick’s own experiences. Eleven years ago, a young Jerry stepped in as quarterback for an injured player, leading UCLA to a memorable victory against Texas. Just like Saturday, he was carried off the field in triumph.

Rick’s pride was evident. “It’s about hard work paying off,” he said, clearly emotional. This journey was more than football; it was about seeing his son achieve a dream, fulfilling the hopes many parents have for their children.

This father-son story resonates with many. In a world where pressures can feel overwhelming, it’s a powerful reminder of the joy that comes from supporting loved ones. Whether in sports or life, everyone wants their hard work to pay off, and sometimes, a little bit of love goes a long way.

For those interested in the dynamics of coaching in college football, this story underscores the close relationships that can develop between coaches and players, especially within families. Studies show that emotional support can significantly impact athletes’ performance, highlighting the importance of strong familial bonds in high-pressure environments.

In the end, this heartwarming narrative is about family, pride, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. It’s not just a sports story; it’s a universal tale of love and perseverance.



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Penn State Nittany Lions, UCLA Bruins, College Football, Sports Business