UCLA Football Breakout Players To For Watch For In 2014-15
Nov 23, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Taylor Kelly (10) dives for more yards at the end of a 23-yard run during the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins at Rose Bowl. Making to tackle is UCLA Bruins safety Tahaan Goodman. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Defensive Back, 6’1″, 198 lbs., Sophomore
Goodman will be seeing a lot of playing time this year. If he is not used as a back-up safety in the 3-4 defensive scheme, he is sure to see a starting spot as a third cornerback if the Bruins go to a 4-2-5. Either way, “Goodman” is a name that you will be hearing a lot of this fall. He is an athletic sort with the speed and skills to handle what Pac-12 offenses will throw at him and in this conference, that is going to be a lot.
As part of one of the best secondaries in the Pac-12, Goodman really proved that he was a potential threat last season, playing in all 13 games and getting 12 tackles. That might not be much, but he held his own as a true freshman and only got better.
During Spring Practice, he really showed what he could do as it seemed things clicked for the Rancho Cucamonga product. As of now, things should be set for the starters in the secondary, but make no mistake that Goodman will be in there sooner than later. If anything, he gives the Bruins depth, which will be good knowing the defensive backs will not miss a step if one of their top guys goes down or needs a breather.