UCLA Football: 5 Players to Watch in 2016

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Nov 1, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Ainuu Taua (35) looks on during the second quarter against the Arizona Wildcats at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Ainuu Taua

Recruited and brought in as a defensive lineman, Taua was a versatile player that had a lot of potential. After two years with the Bruins, he was not able to be much of an impact. In 2015, Taua only recorded 4 tackles as a back-up D-lineman on a team that was allowing nearly 200 yards on the ground per game.

Though the defense changed up the line, it seemed no one was getting any action, especially a seldom used defensive lineman.

With the Bruin’s offense needing to stock up on players for the new power offense OC Kennedy Polamalu is implementing, several on the defense migrated across the line of scrimmage right before Spring Practice began four weeks ago.

It was an interesting move, not only bringing Taua over to the offense, but putting him in a role that will require him to handle the ball a lot. He has not only showed that he can quickly adapt to the position but be an immediate contributor. He looked very impressive receiving passes in the flat, getting into the open and powering the ball through the line on short-yardgage plays.

In a way, you could say the is Nate Iese, Part 2.

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