Check out the latest batch of weekly answers…
1) I don’t really have a question but I was wondering, as someone who is close to the team, you can relay how much better the talent is under CRN compared to under Dorrell. I really don’t think people understand how much Dorrell messed the program up when it comes to getting those elite players to come to UCLA. Thanks! – Mbruck
There is a marked difference in the talent from even a year ago, really. The speed on this team is drastically improved, and you’ll notice most immediately on special teams. I’d be shocked – like, actually really, really, really shocked – if UCLA doesn’t get at least one or two TD returns this year.
2) Jon, thanks for all the video interviews. It’s great to hear the players unfiltered and unedited. Based on what you have seen so far from Darius Bell, do you think redshirting Richard Brehaut will be a real option this year? – Anthony
Based on what I’ve seen so far? No. I like Bell’s game, but I haven’t seen enough consistency from day-to-day, much less throw-to-throw, than is needed. Bell could be a very good change-of-pace guy, and I’m intrigued by a possible Prince/Bell formation, but right now, Brehaut is a solid backup.
3) Has Savage supplanted Eddie Williams at RG? Who will be our starting 5 OL by the KSU game? (Assuming no new injuries.) Thanks for your hard work. – Dr. Mario?
Savage starting? No. Sheller/Taylor/Maiava/Williams/Kia.
4) (1) JG, who’s now running in the OL and DL two-deep? (2) Is Casey Griffiths looking like he’ll contribute this year? – KolbAte10Eggs
Well, that was the first line, and the second line, with Baca out, is Ward/Yandall/Capella/Savage/Harris. I think Griffiths is ultimately going to get into the two-deep. DL: Chandler/Edison/Carter/Holmes and Tepa/Marsh/Carter/Owa with Graham pushing hard.
5) What is your take on the O-Line’s progress? Comparing last year’s O-Line, at this time, to this year. – Roksinger
As a group, improved, but the loss of Su’a-Filo hurts. A lot. He was incredibly steady last year, especially for a freshman, and he’s the kind of guy you build around. If he returns and is healthy and can get his feel back – and honestly, that’s the hardest part, just getting that football “feel” back – and UCLA adds a few more major OL prospects, and things are looking up in a couple years.