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UCLA vs Texas A&M: A Battle on the Edge

By Michael Chavez

Oct 31, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Nate Starks (23) is lifted up by UCLA Bruins offensive lineman Conor McDermott (68) after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Rose Bowl. The UCLA Bruins won 35-31. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Nate Starks (23) is lifted up by UCLA Bruins offensive lineman Conor McDermott (68) after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Rose Bowl. The UCLA Bruins won 35-31. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /
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McDermott has had some up and down moments in his UCLA career but needs to make sure this season and more importantly, this game, is full up up moments. I believe if McDermott uses his length and feet well he can get the win here.

He has also gotten stronger and will need to bring his lunch pail to deal with a player of Garrett’s caliber. At 6-9″ McDermott must keep his pad level low and not lose leverage. Proper technique is going to be key.

Garrett has not disappointed since coming to college station two years ago and he’s only gotten bigger, stronger and faster since then. He’s added weight this offseason and that should aid him in holding his ground in the running game.

Staying in his gap and maintaining contain will be paramount to an Aggie defense that frankly needs a ton from this defensive line to survive games.

This will no doubt be a major battle to watch not just for the outcome of this game but in terms of NFL draft stock as well. Garrett is at a bit of a disadvantage here since his stock could only really go down with a perceived poor performance. McDermott on the other hand could use this game to start his own draft wave that he rides all the way to the first round.

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I expect Garrett to get in a couple good plays but for the UCLA Bruins to account for him as much as possible and give McDermott help with chips from backs and tight ends. The UCLA offense should have success with the protection McDermott affords it.