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UCLA Football: Projecting the starting lineup for 2018

By Mike Regalado

PASADENA, CA - OCTOBER 21: The UCLA Bruins head off the field before their game against the Oregon Ducks at Rose Bowl on October 21, 2017 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
PASADENA, CA - OCTOBER 21: The UCLA Bruins head off the field before their game against the Oregon Ducks at Rose Bowl on October 21, 2017 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 18: Theo Howard
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 18: Theo Howard /

Offense

The offense also loses a lot of talent and the transitions back to an uptempo offense will be something to watch for, specifically how fast the players can adapt to the new style. The Bruins are going to rely on a lot of youth, luckily both Mora and Kelly have brought in some talented individuals.

Unfortuanetly, it going to take some time to replace key figures like Rosen, Lasley, Andrews, Roberts, Quessenberry and Miller.

Projected Offensive Starters

(multiple players at the same position indicate possible position battles)

Related Story: Are the Bruins destined for a National Championship under Chip Kelly?

***UPDATE (1/15)*** Since this publication, UCLA has added another QB to the roster as former Washington backup K.J. will transfer in as a graduate, making him readily available to play next fall. This will make the QB competition very interesting next season.

One of the biggest storylines of the offseason will be the quarterback competition and who will lead Kelly’s offense. Modster? DTR? Does Matt Lynch have a shot?

As for running backs, it really doesn’t matter who starts, both Jamabo and Olorunfunmi should do well in Kelly’s offense, not to mention the Bruins are loaded with other talented backs. As the most consistent position group and the basis for Kelly’s offense, every RB should make major improvements heading into next season.

The offensive line is going to give the coaching staff the most trouble as they not only lose three starters (including Najee Toran), we have to factor in that the Bruins were incredibly thin on the line before their departures. The Bruins should have consistency on the left with James and Alves, but the right side seems up in the air.

Tight end is a no brainer, Caleb Wilson, if and when he is fully recovered, will reclaim this spot, but also look for other talented TEs to make an appearnace like Devin Asiasi, Jordan Wilson and Jimmy Jaggers.

Next: The Top 10 UCLA Basketball Recruiting Classes Since 2000

You wanted Howard, Bruin fans? You got him! Look for Howard to be the top target in the passing game. And since the next most experienced receiver is walk-on Pabico (I think he earned that scholarship, don’t you?), look for a wide open competition at the other two (or three) receiver spots. Don’t be surprised to hear a lot of young bloods being mentioned in spring and fall, including Cota, Omotosho, Damian Alloway.and Kyle Phillips.