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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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PASADENA, CA – SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Bolu Olorunfunmi
PASADENA, CA – SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Bolu Olorunfunmi /

26. Will Bolu and Soso finally go-go?

Things have not taken off for Bolu and Soso as many have hoped, though three offensive coordinators in three years will do that. But with offensive mastermind Kelly in charge, he could do wonders for the seniors. So yes, Bolu and Soso will finally go-go!

27. Road Warriors or road kill

Last season, UCLA went 0-7 away from the Rose Bowl and it was not pretty. This year, they only have five road games, but it could be equally as bad. The Bruins travel to Oklahoma, Colorado (on a Friday), Cal, Oregon (Chip Kelly homecoming) and Arizona State. Now that is a brutal schedule.

28. Running back by committee?

Unlike the QB position, the RB position could and probably will use several running backs to maximize Kelly’s schemes. There will be two-back sets, first down backs, short yardage backs, backs in motioning out in a receiving set… the bottom line is that Kelly is going to use several backs in several formations to get what he needs from the running game. With that in mind, expect the ball to be shared quite a bit, especially if one does not standout as the go-to.

29. The best cornerbacks in the Pac-12

UCLA has always had a solid secondary under Mora and Azzinaro gets to reap the benefits as the DBs not only stacked, but have a ton of talent, especially at cornerback. Nate Meadors and Darnay Holmes are two explosive defenders that will challenge everything that comes their way this season. This leads me to believe they will be the best CB tandem in the conference.

30. Rick Wade breakout year?

Rick Wade is a player that has patiently waited his turn to step up and show what he has got. Now more than ever are the Bruins going to need his length and strength to help the DL advance and break the stigma that UCLA cannot defend against the run.