UCLA Fall Camp, Day 4 Recap: The Defensive Line, Big Hits And Injury Report

Aug 31, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins coach Jim Mora throws a pass before the game against the Nevada Wolf Pack at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Day 3 of fall camp saw a few more injuries, but not very serious. Their biggest concern is regarding linebacker Cameron Griffin’s shoulder injury. As far as the defensive line, they are looking great behind the return of a player that missed all of last season. Day 3 also had some big hits which will help them get more stronger in preparation for a rugged Pac-12 Conference. Overall, it was just another tough day in the desert.

The Defensive Line was getting some attention today as they seem to generally attract it. They are big and strong… we knew the D-line would be good, but will they be great? You also have to consider that the Bruins may be going back and forth between the 3-4 and 4-2-5 defense, which messes with the depth a little, but it does not seem to be a problem so far, especially with the return of Owamagbe Odighizuwa.

The Running Backs are going to have a bit more of an edge to them this year. If they can stay healthier than in 2013, they should do well behind an improved offensive line and the running stylings of quarterback Brett Hundley.

#UCLA RB Paul Perkins had an extremely strong day, showing off speed and cutting ability @UCLAFootball #pac12
— chris foster (@cfosterworld) August 8, 2014

If you want to give big hits, you need to learn how. If you want to try to avoid big hits, you need to learn how.

#UCLA frosh LB Kenny Young devoured one RB after another in pass 1-on-1 pass protection drill @ucafootball #pac12
— chris foster (@cfosterworld) August 8, 2014

#UCLA RB Steven Manfro had hit of day, jarring LB Jayon Brown during blocking drill. Brown needed a minute to regroup @UCLAFootball #pac12
— chris foster (@cfosterworld) August 8, 2014

Injury Report – The good news is that the majority of these are minor. Given the circumstances of San Bernardino in August, this is to be expected. The bad news, the linebackers are short a man.

Mora said that Alex Redmond should hopefully be back on the field tomorrow after heat got to him: "You don't mess with the heat," he said.
— Ryan Kartje (@Ryan_Kartje) August 8, 2014

#UCLA rec Thomas Duarte was limited to riding the stationary bike after tweaking left hamstring Wed #pac12 @UCLAFootball
— chris foster (@cfosterworld) August 8, 2014

#UCLA RB Jordon James watched practice because of sore hamstring. @UCLAFootball #pac12
— chris foster (@cfosterworld) August 8, 2014