UCLA Football Spring Practice: Day 7 news and notes – Bruins have options

Day 7 notes (cont.)

As for the running backs, Soso Jamabo and Bolu Olorunfunmi got a lot of reps and looked good running the ball, especially to thew outside. Pitches or passes out to the flats consistently went for positive yardage, especially with improved blocking from the offensive line.

Speaking of blocking, the offensive line is slowly starting to adapt to the requirements of Kelly’s offense. The line is not just working on fundamentals before and during contact, but are working on blocking after the snap, specifically opening holes down field and blocking defenders on the 2nd and 3rd level.

Later in practice, the offense and defense were working on 7-v-7s, and the defensive backs and linebackers had the leg up. In this late practice segment, it was all passing as receivers had to get open, catch in traffic or try to get more yards after contact. The defense swarmed the passes, either knocking them down or disallowing any yards after contact, but the offense had their moments.

Freshman WR Kyle Phillips had a nice catch on the sideline that went for over 10 yards. Christian Pabico looked consistent when the ball was thrown to him and Theo Howard continues to look smooth in his route running and pass catching. There was a concerning moment mid-practice when Howard looked to have injured his leg running a route. He did not leave practice, but was a step behind a few moments after that route. He stretched every chance he could and stayed on the field.

Next: UCLA Football: 5 things to watch as Spring Practice resumes

Overall, the offense looked as if they have picked up the pace, especially with Modster under center. The defense seemed to be ahead of the defense before spring break, but the offense is slowly catching up and will improve, especially if they start to get more comfortable with the triple-option.