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UCLA Football: 5 Players to Watch in 2016

By Mike Regalado

Nov 21, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Jim Mora during the second half against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. UCLA won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Jim Mora during the second half against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. UCLA won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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September 5, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Jim Mora following the 34-16 victory against the Virginia Cavaliers at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
September 5, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Jim Mora following the 34-16 victory against the Virginia Cavaliers at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Kolton Miller

I admit. I love the big guys. When I first heard of Miller’s commitment two years ago, I was excited because this 6’8″, 280 lbs. kid would add length to the tackle position.

UCLA Bruins
UCLA Bruins /

UCLA Bruins

Like all freshman, he needed to build up his body along with his skill. In his first fall camp he was noticeably one of the tallest players on the field, but when he turned sideways, he would disappear (I credit that little quip to Go Joe Bruin writer Jake Merrifield).

That is exactly what Miller did in his first year with the Bruins as he redshirted and got up to speed with the inner workings of the offensive line. That prepared him to take on the role of right tackle in 2015 when the line, although experienced, was once again going through changes which forced Miller into action.

Miller started in five games due to his ability to adapt to the needs of the line. He meshed well with the upperclassmen and continued to excel late in the season.

During spring, Miller made a case to be the starter on the right side of the line. He has been very good stopping some of the defense’s pass rushers and for the most part held his own as the defensive line is now playing with four on the line.

Miller will be huge asset in his redshirt sophomore season and could be the heir apparent to Conor McDermott after the season.

Next: A Quick Pass Rusher