As if facing undefeated Oregon wasn’t challenging enough, UCLA must worry about an additional threat this Saturday: running back De’Anthony Thomas.
The All-America candidate has missed almost four full games with a sprained ankle, but declared himself ready to play against the Bruins. Thomas averaged 8.0 yards per carry as the Ducks’ lead back. After the emergence of sophomore Byron Marshall (746 yards, nine touchdowns) and freshman Thomas Tyner (360 yards, seven touchdowns), he could move back into a more versatile role.
Through his first two seasons, Thomas moved all over the lineup and rolled out 3,992 all-purpose yards. Comparisons don’t always come easily for such a player, but UCLA linebackers coach Jeff Ulbrich gave it a shot. Continue reading “De’Anthony Thomas sparks images of Devin Hester” »