Projecting The Depth Chart: Running Backs, Fullbacks

Nov 2, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back

(24) is defended by Colorado Buffaloes linebacker

(1) at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Last season, UCLA utilized several players for their ground attack as it was clear the Bruins would play “running backs by committee”. The same appears to be true for the up-coming season where the Bruins will be stacked with more talent at RB and looking to integrate their Fullbacks into a bigger offensive role. Add to the that the HUGE hiring of Kennedy Polamalu as the running backs coach and the Bruins have a recipe for destruction. Without further ado, here is the GJB projected depth chart for the running game.

Running Backs

Sep 14, 2013; Lincoln, NE, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers defenders Corey Cooper (6) and Josh Mitchell (5) tackle UCLA Bruins running back Jordan James (6) in the third quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports

1. Jordan James – 5’9″, 196 lbs., redshirt Senior

The most experienced RB on UCLA’s roster will be leading the charge this fall at the #1 spot. Last season, James, like several of his RB crew, were lost to injures for several games. With James healthy (and behind a solid O-line), he should surpass his achievements of last year and dethrone Brett Hundley as the team’s leading rusher. James was third on the team with 534 yards and was second with an average of 5.3 yards per carry.

2. Paul Perkins – 5’11”, 200 lbs., redshirt Sophomore

One of the few RBs that did not get injured last season handled the ball very well for UCLA when others were sidelined. Perkins was second on the team in rushing yards with 573 and third with 4.3 yards per carry. One of the bigger RBs the Bruins have will look to get more action after a solid freshman season. Expect big improvements with Polamalu at his side.

Oct 3, 2013; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Steven Manfro (33) catches the ball and runs up field against the Utah Utes in the second quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

3. Steven Manfro – 5’9″, 189 lbs., redshirt Junior

MANFRO!!! A fan favorite will be looking to make a bigger mark in his third year for the Bruins. Having been injured as well, Manfro only played in 9-of-13 games last season. Though he will be a more skilled back, he also showed promise as a kick returner on Special Teams, leading the Bruins with 446 yards and an impressive 24.8 yards per return.

4.Craig Lee – 5’11”, 185 lbs., redshirt Freshman

Every one has been talking about Lee since he signed his Letter Of Intent. In Spring, he wowed coaches and was they talk of the running backs, but he has not officially seen time on the field. If he is as good as many speculate, there is a chance this freshman will make an impact and possibly move into the second or third spot on the depth chart.

The back up squad: Roosevelt Davis, Ryan Davis, Winston Boyce and Christian Wehrly. These players round off the depth chart to the 2014 roster. Only the Davis’ played in a game last year and that was when UCLA needed some guys to step up for several injured Bruins. This season, unless injuries plague the team again or the Bruins are in a rout, these players will not likely see time on the field. Still, several should have a hand in Special Teams and/or the scout team.

Fullbacks

Oct 3, 2013; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Brett Hundley (17) celebrates with fullback Nate Iese (32) after scoring on a 7-yard touchdown pass against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

1. Nate Iese – 6’3″, 245 lbs., redshirt Sophomore

It was made clear in Spring that UCLA was going to start utilizing the fullback position more and more. The man that fits into that scheme is Iese. Converted from defense, Iese played a little FB last year, but mostly in blocking situations. Iese revealed that this season, he will be involved in UCLA’s passing game, giving Hundley yet another target to throw to.

2. Tre Hale – 6’2″, 242 lbs., redshirt Senior

Hale was able to get in the game last season, but did not have significant playing time. This should change with the way the Bruins look to utilize the FBs in their game. Iese is set to be the starter and Hale seems to be the obvious back-up.

3. Spencer Atkins – 6’1″, 215 lbs., redshirt Freshman

If Atkins gets in the game, it will be his first. With one season under his belt as a redshirt, Atkins should know what is needed at his spot and make solid contributions, especially if the injury bug makes its way over the the FBs.

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Mike W.R.

Twitter: @TheBigDisco