UCLA Football Early 2018 Schedule Preview: Fresno State Bulldogs
Fresno State Defense
The defense last year for Fresno State was a huge improvement from past years. Their run defense was not only first in the Mountain West but 11th in the nation. Scoring on Tedford’s defense was difficult for teams, holding three conference opponents to single digits.
Fresno State 2017 Defensive Stats
| Total Defense | Passing Defense | Rushing Defense | Scoring Defense |
|---|---|---|---|
| 320.6 (2nd) | 207.1 (5th) | 113.4 (1st) | 17.9 (2nd) |
( ) – denotes ranking in the Mountain West
Returning linebackers Jeffrey Allison (126 total tackles) and George Helmuth (88 tackles, 4 sacks) lead a defense that also ranked in the top 15 nationally in scoring and total defense. Senior James Bailey (67 tackles) rounds out a linebacking core that returns three starters.
Along with Allison and Helmuth, Fresno State also return both starting cornerbacks and both starting safeties. Junior cornerback Jaron Bryant led the Bulldogs with four interceptions last year. Safties Juju Hughes and Mike Bell, both juniors, combined for 148 tackles last season including 10 for loss.
If the Bulldogs’ defense does have a weakness, it may be their defensive line. With no starters returning, players like senior Emeka Ndoh (8 tackles, 4 sacks) will have to step up at defensive end to continue Fresno State’s defensive attack.
We all remember how agonizing it was to watch UCLA run the ball last year. Against a rushing defense like Fresno State, the Bruins’ running backs, whether it be Soso Jamabo, Bolu Olorunfunmi, or someone else, will have trouble finding any holes to run through. But if they do, a veteran linebacking crew will be waiting to bring them down. When Chip Kelly turns to the air, Fresno State’s experienced secondary will be waiting. These two factors will make putting points on the board difficult for UCLA.