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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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Nate Starks, Soso Jamabo and Bolu Olorunfunmi

Okay, this is more of a breakout position than it is an individual player but if you know what I have seen, you would know why I am really excited about UCLA’s running back situation.

After last season, it was a question of who would take over for Paul Perkins. Starks has been a bruising back that can run over his defenders, as well as breaking out into the open. Unfortunately, a midseason injury slowed his progress but gave way for freshmen Jamabo and Olorunfunmi to get experience.

Both improved as the season progressed and became very dependable as they averaged over 5.4 yards per carry. This spring, they continued on their development and looked very good, so much that there will be a battle for the starting spot come this fall.

Next: UCLA Football Showcases Themselves

The reality is that Kennedy Polamalu has three very impressive running backs that will be used in a variety of set-ups in their tweaked offense. Needless to say, it is going to be very exciting watching the Bruins run the ball this fall.