UCLA Football: Projecting the 2017 depth chart – Special Teams
Kickers
1. JJ Molson, PK, So.
Molson came to UCLA last season ranked as the #2 kicker in North America. Unfortunately, his freshman season was not as successful as hoped. His 60.0 (12/20) field goal percentage ranked 10th among PAC-12 kickers.
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His best game of the season was the 2016 opener at Texas A&M where Molson went 3 for 4 on field goals with a long of 38 yards. On a positive note, Molson could be counted on to hit extra points going a perfect 27/27.
Molson will need to improve his accuracy this year to give Mora the confidence to rely on him. More than a few times last year Mora decided to go for it on fourth down around the 35 yard line instead of attempting a field goal. The risk of going for it on fourth instead of taking three points could end up being the difference between winning or losing.
2. Andrew Strauch, K, So.
Strauch was called on to kick nine extra points last year, connecting on all nine. He was also 1/2 on field goals with his lone make, a 39-yarder, against Utah.
The San Francisco native will probably start the season as Molson’s back up but should expect to see some action this year, especially if Molson struggles.
3. Crawford Pierson, K, R-Fr.
As a redshirt last year, Pierson was limited to just kicking during practice. Unless the Bruins’ two other kickers go down with injuries or have terrible slumps, Pierson probably won’t see any action this year.