Behind Enemy Lines: UCLA


This week’s segment is with UCLA beat writer Chris Foster. You can read about the Bruins here and follow him on Twitter here. The Cougars hit the road for the first time this season Saturday at No. 22 UCLA.

1. What has been the biggest surprise in UCLA’s 2-0 start?

The defense, particularly the linebackers. They lost Patrick Larimore to a concussion. He was a guy who did a lot more than make tackles. Damien Holmes and Eric Kendricks have been adequate in the middle. But Jordan Zumwalt and Anthony Barr, a converted Y-back, have been strong on the outside.

2. It’s one thing to rush for 214 yards against Rice, but Johnathan Franklin had 217 against defensive-minded Nebraska and currently leads the nation. What has been the key to his fast start?

The strong blocking in the middle from center Jack Brendel and guard Xavier Su’a-Filo. Franklin also benefits from offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone’s philosophy, getting fast players the ball in the flat one-on-one with linebackers. He carved up Nebraska on laterals.

3. Are you surprised with the early-season composure of redshirt freshman quarterback Brett Hundley?

No. He was clearly UCLA’s best quarterback in spring. He is mature beyond his years. So mature that he has his cliches memorized.

4. If there is an area that UCLA remains vulnerable, where is it?

The offensive line and secondary. There is little depth, especially on the o-line.

5. Is this a UCLA team that can build off the early momentum or will the Pac-12 schedule eventually catch up? What’s the best-case/worst-case scenario for the Bruins this season?

UCLA is set up for an 8 or 9-win season. The schedule favors the Bruins, they do not play Oregon or Washington. They do not play a team currently ranked until USC on Nov. 17.

Categories: Cougars, General
Joseph Duarte