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UCLA Football Spring Practice Day 4 – Jim Mora Talks Progress and Pace

By Mike Regalado

UCLA Football Spring PracticePhoto Credit: Mike Regalado
UCLA Football Spring PracticePhoto Credit: Mike Regalado /
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UCLA Football Head Coach Jim Mora talked to the media after the Bruin’s fourth Spring Practice session and went on about several players that are making progress with the new set ups on offense and defense.

The UCLA Football team had its first afternoon session on Monday after three straight morning practices. The time did not seem to negatively affect the Bruins who Head Coach Jim Mora thought had performed very well.

Mora started with penalties and how he approved of only two false starts among 90 plays. Mora stated, “I am encouraged by where we are at but we have a lot of work to do.”

With the Bruins slowing down their tempo going to a power offense (which includes huddles), the coaches are taking the time to teach the players the intrinsic characteristics of their positions within the new systems. Mora did say that as the team gets more accustomed to the their roles, the tempo will pick up as Spring Practice progresses.

The video comes courtesy of Bruin Report Online.

Players Stepping Up

Mora was asked about potential leaders stepping up. Two that he went on about was Fabian Moreau, who naturally displays leadership traits, and Conor McDermott who is a player others look up to because of his work ethic and attitude.

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The topic of Ishmael Adams switching to wide receiver came up and Mora stated that so far it is a smooth transition. One thing that stood out to him is how Adams is able to create separation from defenders and pull away with his speed.

One reporter asked about freshman Lokeni Toailoa spending time with first team defense. Mora praised the early enrollee and said he saw time with the 1s specifically for his instincts and awareness.

Mora also pointed out three defensive backs who have been impressive through the first four practices. Adarius Pickett was working with the 1s, which Mora said was due to his toughness and intelligence. Tahaan Goodman and Jaleel Wadood were guys that also impressed as the continually made plays.

Injuries and Recoveries

Marcus Rios was out with a strained groin which he suffered on Saturday, but should be fine. Eddie Vanderdoes, Tevita Halalilo, Fabian Moreau, Mossi Johnson and Johnny Johnson, who are all recovering from serious injuries, were all on the stationary bicycles the majority of practice.

Next: UCLA Football: Spring Practice In Pictures

In sadder news, cult hero Steven Manfro once again hurt his shoulder, and although the severity of the injury is unknown,  Mora all but said he is done with his career.