2013 Outlook - UCLA

In his first year as the HC of the UCLA Bruins, Jim Mora Jr has some talent on the roster.  Even with this talent, it could be a bit of a challenge to dramatically improve on last year's 6-8 finish though.  Learning a new system can be hard, and it takes a while for new HCs to get their recruits in place.

Right now it appears as if SR QB, Kevin Prince will be the starter for the Bruins.  This could change though, depending on how much Mora likes some of his new guys.  Prince has had some nice moments over the past few seasons, but is still too inconsistent.  I'd like to see him improve his overall decision making this year, and it would be a help if he can stay healthy.  SR RB Johnathan Franklin will be the primary back for the Bruins, and he has some upside.  After cracking the thousand yard barrier two years ago, he almost did it again last year.  I suspect this will be his best season, and he should leave Los Angeles as their all time leading rusher at the end of the year.  The receiving corp will benefit from having two Notre Dame transfers, WR Shaquelle Evans, and TE Joseph Furia as Prince's primary weapons in the passing game.  I like both of these guys, especially Furia, and I think they could be productive.  Up front, SO OT Xavier Su'A-Filo returns from Mission, and he should provide a good boost to this unit that has struggled to remain healthy over the past few years.  If they can hold it together, this offense should be able to score some points.

Defensively, UCLA is transitioning to a 3-4.  This puts their best player, SR Datone Jones lined up at DE.  I think he will have some good success getting pressure of the edge, and sealing against the run.  Although talented, the undersized NT, SO Brandon Willis is a bit of a concern though for this front.  At linebacker, the team returns some of their most productive players from a year ago, including SR ILB Patrick Larimore.  The experience these guys bring to the table will be a real asset for this program.  The secondary is comparably experienced, starting three Seniors this year.  The lone exception is SO S Tevin McDonald, who in my opinion is the most exciting player of this unit.

Again, Mora does inherit a talented roster, with a lot of experience.  Although good, the team will still be implementing a new system for the player to have to absorb.  If the team can stay healthy, and that is a big if with this group, they could improve on last year's performance.  Either way, I see promise in this team, even if it is another year or two off.