Extravaganswer, Pt. 2

1) Is Mustafa returning to UCLA next year to play hoops? - Powder Blue Balls
No, Mustafa told me that while he loves playing ball at UCLA, he's ready to move on to the next chapter of his life. He'll try to play overseas, or begin a career in politics or policy. I expect big things from him.

2) Has the departure of Daniels and/or addition of Matthews changed the perception of UCLA in the recruiting landscape? - Powder Blue Balls
Too early to tell, but I know Mathews is both well-regarded and well-liked. Then again, so was Daniels.

3) One thing that stood out from watching the defense last year is that Sheldon Price would get schooled by opposing wide receivers and especially running backs. Has he shown an increased ability to tackle? - DBL185
Price still has a way to go, but he is markedly improved from last year. I don't think he takes a Verner-type leap, but if he is 50 percent better and Hester is 50 percent better, the defensive backfield will be the team's strongest position.

4) One thing that seemed to plague this team has been fundamentals -- kickoff coverage, snaps, false start penalties. Has this been a focus of the coaches during the offseason? - DBL185
With Maiava injured for much of spring, the quarterback exchange has been a perilous one. Ryan Taylor had his issues - though I like him as a blocker - and Greg Capella is not the answer at No. 3 center. So, yes, snaps have been a focus. Coverage, etc, really gets worked on in fall.

5) Along those lines, have you seen any type of focusing on defensive schemes that would be effective against spread offenses that have racked up huge gains against the defense? Or is that something that will be improved by the upgrade to the speed of the players on defense. - DBL185
The improved team speed will be a huge plus, but until things really get rolling in the fall - yes, spring is important, but you can't exactly revamp an entire squad - the schematic mixing-and-matching is limited.