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UCLA Football: 2018 Depth chart projections – Defensive Backs

By Mike Regalado

PROVO, UT - SEPTEMBER 17: Adarius Pickett
PROVO, UT - SEPTEMBER 17: Adarius Pickett /
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AMES, IA – NOVEMBER 14: Head coach Paul Rhoads of the Iowa State Cyclones coaches from the sidelines in the second half of play at Jack Trice Stadium on November 14, 2015 in Ames, Iowa. The Oklahoma State Cowboys defeated Iowa State 35-31.(Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images)
AMES, IA – NOVEMBER 14: Head coach Paul Rhoads of the Iowa State Cyclones coaches from the sidelines in the second half of play at Jack Trice Stadium on November 14, 2015 in Ames, Iowa. The Oklahoma State Cowboys defeated Iowa State 35-31.(Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images) /

Safety

  1. Quentin Lake, 6-1, 185, So.
  2. Mo Osling III, 6-1, 187, So.
  3. Kenny Churchwell, 6-1, 190, Fr.
  4. Ryan Parks, 6-0, 202, R-Fr.

Quentin Lake has the tough task of replacing a solid safety from last season, Jaleel Wadood. Wadood was a player that was reliable in the backfield, though he is now off to the CFL.

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Lake surprised many in the spring as he showed that he had the talent to take over the empty safety spot. And why not? He has all the characteristics that this defensive coaching staff is looking for. First off, he is very quick and has great footwork. He can backpedal while in coverage and quickly turn his body so that he is racing downfield with oncoming receivers. He is also very reactionary, something that is going to be vital to this defense that is looking to become more aggressive.

Behind him, we could possibly see Mo Osling III in safety support. Though Osling was pegged to play at the corner spot, it looked like he was asked to step in at safety during the first day of fall camp. Osling played in all 13 games last season, so he knows what will be expected of him. He should be a pest to opponents due to his size. He is long, physical and will terrorize opponents that try to take him on.

Churchill is a pretty explosive player. He not only played safety in high school but also receiver so if a ball is thrown his way on defense, we could see a few INTs in his future. He is also a hard hitter, so taking down receivers should not be a problem for him.