UCLA Football: 15 Things to watch for in the season opener vs Cincinnati

10. Balancing the LB Unit

Things are not all rainbows and roses with UCLA at the moment. The Bruins have been going through some growing pains with a heavy emphasis on the pain, especially with the linebackers. A few weeks ago it was announced that starting ILB Josh Woods was out for the season with a knee injury. This past week, reserve Leni Toialoa sustained an injury (though it is not known how serious it is). With DC Jerry Azzinaro going to a 3-4 formation, it will require the LBs to utilize an extra man. So what happens in regards to depth? Though the Bruins are thin, Azzinaro will have a few things ready. Whether it is using a lot of young players or shifting to a 4-3 or utilizing the nickel position a lot more, the defense should be able to balance things out.

11. Offensive Line Protection

The next issue on the docket is that of the offensive line. Linebackers and O-linemen have been the biggest concern for Kelly as both lack experience and depth. The offense is going to be expected to move and move fast, something they are not exactly accustomed to. They are also expected to help move the ball along the ground, but with only two returning starters from last season that could only garner 116.4 yards per game, that will be a huge task. But that is why Kelly was hired. Trust the process.

12. Blitzes, Finally

In 2018, there will be none of this conservative “wait and see” defense that was used by former DC Tom Bradley. The new defensive coaches want their players to be active and in the face of the opposition. That means we should be seeing a lot more blitzes. Up the middle, around the edge, from corners, LBs and safeties… there will be blitzes, people!