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UCLA Football: 50 things to look for in 2018 with 50 days until kickoff

By Mike Regalado

WESTWOOD, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Chip Kelly speaks to the media during a press conference after being introduced as the new UCLA Football head coach on November 27, 2017 in Westwood, California. (Photo by Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images)
WESTWOOD, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Chip Kelly speaks to the media during a press conference after being introduced as the new UCLA Football head coach on November 27, 2017 in Westwood, California. (Photo by Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images) /
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6. Another interesting first home game for the new UCLA coach?

In 1996, Bob Toledo led UCLA to a 44-0 win over NE Louisiana. In 2003, Karl Dorrell defeats Illinois, 6-3. In 2008, Rick Neuheisel beats Tennessee, 27-23 in OT. In 2012, Jim Mora, beats Nebraska, 36-30. What will Chip Kelly’s first impression be at the Rose Bowl?

7. Triple Option

We saw a lot of things during spring practice, but one of the more interesting, which we did not see during the spring game, was the implementation of the triple option. Kelly is known for and showed plenty of zone reads and RPO plays, but he could take his offense a step further with the triple-option. But honestly, Kelly will probably evolve the triple option. I don’t know how, but knowing his determination to succeed, it is a good bet that we will see some sort of step forward with his offense.

UCLA’s Offensive 2017 Stats

  • Scoring Offense – 29.5 (5th in Pac-12)
  • Total Offense – 457.8 (3rd)
  • Rushing Offense – 113.4 (11th)
  • Passing Offense – 344.5 (2nd)

8. Andre James and a new O-Line mindset

The Bruins do not exactly have the O-line that will immediately give Chip Kelly what he needs to construct a fear-inducing offense, but he does have a few linemen that can help them head in that direction. One of those is RT Amdre James. He is not only one of two returning starters but he continues to progress and should be an integral part of UCLA’s line.

9. Super Sophomores Jaelan Phillips and Darnay Holmes

UCLA was blessed with a few fantastic freshmen last season. But now, DE/OLB Jealan Phillips and CB Darnay Holmes are super sophomores. There natural talents will be a huge boost to this defense in transition.

10. The first play of the season

UCLA has had some very exciting first plays of the season and with a very exciting new coach, will they unload for an explosive first play and wow the world that is watching Kelly, or will the coach go small and be methodical to start?