UCLA Football: Five potential breakout players in 2017
By Keir Chapman
RB Soso Jamabo, #1
Jr., 6’2″, 215 lbs.
The inclusion of Soso Jamabo on this list may seem confusing. At times, he was UCLA’s first-string running back, and has definitely made an impact for the Bruins. Last season, Jamabo tallied three touchdowns all season, a number that may seem good for a pass-first offense. That is, until one realizes that all three of Jamabo’s touchdowns came in one game against UNLV in week two.
From that point on, his best game came against Colorado in week nine. In the match, he carried the ball 23 times for 66 yards. The numbers don’t jump out, but this was against a good defensive teahttps://gojoebruin.com/wp-admin/post-new.phpm in the Buffaloes, while UCLA’s offensive lines was one of the worst in the country.
The Bruins have completely overhauled the offensive line since last year, bringing in Hank Fraley to coach the unit. They also have Kolton Miller returning, along with the addition of Miami transfer Sonny Odogwu. These additions should help Jamabo reach the potential that made him a highly touted incoming freshman two seasons ago.
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Jamabo isn’t a fast runner, but he is certainly strong. He’ll often break the first tackle and pick up extra yards before finally being brought down. This makes his runs up the middle especially dangerous for defenders. When he can get past the front seven, it is hard for defensive backs to bring him down. If Jamabo becomes a consistent threat, the passing offense will surely benefit, giving the Bruins a complete offense.