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UCLA Football Spring Practice Preview 2018: Running Backs

By Mike Regalado

BOULDER, CO - NOVEMBER 3: Running back Soso Jamabo
BOULDER, CO - NOVEMBER 3: Running back Soso Jamabo /
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PASADENA, CA – SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Bolu Olorunfunmi
PASADENA, CA – SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Bolu Olorunfunmi /

UCLA Football Spring Practice Preview: Running Backs (cont.)

Bolu Olorunfunmi was UCLA’s leading rusher last season with 565 yards and 5 touchdowns. He also had 10 receptions for 118 yards, so Kelly has another back that can run and catch the ball, but Olorunfunmi is not the same type of player as Jamabo.

Olorunfunmi is smaller and not as fast as his counterpart, but he is stronger and able to bulldoze through defenders. Not exactly the type of back that would fit in Kelly’s offense, but not one you want to throw away either. The soon-to-be senior has been a very reliable RB, but like Jamabo, Olorunfunmi has suffered because of lack of development and a spotty offensive line.

Under Kelly, Bolu can be a dangerous weapon, especially on inside zone run plays. If he gets an opening, he will take off for several yards. If he makes contact with a defender, it is more likely than not he will make the defender pay and churn out a few extra (though tough) yards after contact.

Brandon Stephens has been a welcome surprise. He is similar in frame to Jamabo, but is a bit more elusive. Stephens could be an excellent candidate to help lead the run game simply because he can find the gaps and exploit bad choices by defenders. He is also pretty quick on his feet, which seems like something Kelly can use from day one.