UCLA Football: 50 Days to Kickoff, 50 Things to Look For in 2016

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Aug 30, 2014; Charlottesville, VA, USA; UCLA Bruins offensive linemen line up against the Virginia Cavaliers at Scott Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

31. Rosen Vs USC

Josh Rosen did not seem happy with his performance in the game versus USC last season. The Bruins could have clinched their first South Division title since Jim Mora’s first season, but a bloodletting at the hands of the Trojans not only kept the Bruins out of the Pac-12 Championship Game, but they were reduced to a lower tiered Foster Farms Bowl.

32. Tight Ends, Hooray!

Part of the move to a power offense will be using tight ends more consistently. Not only did the Bruins hire a tight end coach in Rip Scherer after last season, but they recruited tight ends and converted players to the new position. The use of TEs will help the power formation, though it is nothing new as UCLA has used tight ends (or Y-receivers) in the past.

33. Speed Receivers

UCLA has had some consistent and reliable receivers the last several years. What they haven’t had in the Jim Mora era are speedy receivers. That changes this year. Kenneth Walker, who has been the fastest player on the team the last several years, has improved his pass catching abilities. The addition of freshman Theo Howard will also help put some speed in the passing game. Basically, look out for blue and gold blurs in 2016.

34. Winning at the Rose Bowl?

The Bruins have been road warriors the last few years and somehow less than stellar at home. That might be a little tougher this year as the Bruins have some of their more difficult games at the Rose Bowl. Will their perceived trajectory of success help them win several key games or they once again bound for home disappointment?

35. A Powerful Offensive Line?

The thing about moving to a power based offense is that you need every facet of your offense to be on the same page and be up to the task. The offensive line is coming from a spread offense. With the Bruins trying to move to a more power based offense, they might be a little light in the trenches. Can the Bruin big boys push around some of the tougher defensive lines on their schedule or will they be pushed around themselves?

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