We have hit the midway point of the season and Go Joe Bruin takes a look at the individual position groups of the UCLA Football team and hands out the midterm grades, but with a twist.
We all had that one teacher or professor that was very encouraging. Even if they knew that things would not turn out as planned, they kept up the optimism. With that being said, I wanted to take that approach to Go Joe Bruin’s UCLA Football position group midterm grades.
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You have read other sites that have torn into the Bruins, and maybe they have a point, but let’s look on the bright side of these situations. Today, I am the teacher and these are my “Way Too Optimistic” midterm grades for the Bruins. Enjoy.
Quarterbacks: A-
So far you have been doing excellent work. Your marks are among the highest in the nation, Mr. Josh Rosen. I did notice you had some trouble in the last two tests. Just keep going, stay focused and study with your receivers a bit more. This would have been an A+, but the record is 3-3 and you have been intercepted during lab quite a bit lately. Clean that up and your grade will have that “+” added to it by season’s end.
Running Backs: B
Wow. Last year you guys barely did anything and this season you are becoming an important part of the offense. That is what I like to see… PROGRESS! Additionally, I like how you are sharing the ball. This group project is making strides and different Bruins are stepping up when needed. I’m sorry we have potentially lost Nate Starks and Jalen Starks, but I like seeing the upperclassmen leadership from Bolu Olorunfunmi and Soso Jamabo. I can see this group getting an “A-” if you continue on this trajectory.
Wide Receivers: B+
Bravo. Last season, you and the running backs were getting into major tomfoolery, but I am glad to see both position groups turning things around and doing better. It hurt that you lost Caleb Wilson, but keep going, especially with Darren Andrews and Jordan Lasley leading the way.
Also, I’m glad to see that you are hanging out with Josh more and more. He says controversial stuff, but he has a brain on him. Plus, I can see he is feeding off all of you. I like the connections you all are making.
Offensive line: B
Yes, it could be better but I like the progress the O-line is making. The run and pass game would not be where they are at with out your protection. You seem a lot more comfortable in this offense and that will only help you to grow. I like the effort Scott Quessenberry is putting in, I really think the younger players are feeding off of that.
Although, you do have to do something about allowing 2.33 sacks per game, 91st in the nation. Get this number down and your letter will go up, up, up!
Defensive Line: D
Look, it is not the end of the world, there is still the second half of the season, but you are in danger of getting a very low grade at season’s end, I’m just being serious. Look, you can bring this grade up. I know injuries have been an issue, but that doesn’t mean that the rest of you get to slow down. Kick it up a notch and put in the extra work. Stick to your assignments and you can swim through your barriers. Come on now!
Linebackers: D+
Same here. Injuries have taken a toll on you guys, but you cannot let up. Kenny Young is doing a great job so follow his lead and you can be a solid group. Josh Woods and Krys Barnes are making improvements, good job. A lot of you younger guys, this is your chance to step up and solidify your place. I know you missed some assignments, but you can make it up with some extra credit in the second half of the season.
Defensive Backs: C+
One word: senioritis! Don’t get it! You have been doing very well the past few years, so do not get comfortable. With the run defense trying to improve, you guys need to be ready at every snap. Jaleel Wadood, Adarius Pickett and Nate Meadors are doing a bang up job. Just help out the run D and close the lanes! You’re a team, bring it together!
Special Teams: B
It is a mixed bag here. , Stefan Flintoft’s punts are excellent. Kickoffs, field goals and extra points are where they need to be, JJ Molson. Returns could get a bit of an alteration. Darnay Holmes is doing a decent job running the ball back, but holes need to open up and blocking has to be better. Other than that, do not stop what you are doing.
Coaching: C-
Guys, guys, guys. If its not working, scrap it and start over. At the very least, make some in-game defensive changes. Things are clearly not working so throw something else out there. Put ten guys in the box and let Wadood cover the air. He’s a vet, he can handle it.
As for the offense, I am just shocked. Well done fisching out this new offense. It is working. Don’t get complacent.
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Overall Grade: C+
The UCLA Football team is in a bit of an imbalance. Overall, the offense is very good and needs to continue to execute at a high level. If the tempo offense works, go with that. The defense needs to change regardless, but they have to show some dedication. Going 3-3 is average, like the grade. Now try and raise it by the final. Go Bruins!
P.S. Office hours have been cancelled this week as I am probably going to have to defend these grades on social media and my take me until next week to sort through that mountain. Until then, consult your local social media Go Joe Bruin platform. Go Bruins!