UCLA Football: Five Bruins that will make an impact against USC

The Crosstown Showdown might have lost some luster compared to previous seasons, but once that ball is kicked off, it is all about beating the Trojans. Here are five UCLA football players that should have a big part in doing just that…

It is going to be quite the event this Saturday at the Rose Bowl as the UCLA football team takes on USC. Though both teams have had their issues, it will be a fierce battle once we are in the thick of things.

The Bruins are still trying to figure things out, but they have several individuals that can make a difference. Here five that should have an immediate impact in trying to claim a victory over the Trojans…

1. RB Joshua Kelley

More from Go Joe Bruin

There has been a constant theme in Go Joe Bruin’s “Keys to Victory” segments: run the ball. And why is that? It is because of junior running back Joshua Kelley who has rejuvenated the Bruins’ run game. Last season (actually, the last two), UCLA was one of the worst running teams in the nation, only averaging 116.4 yards per game. This year, Kelley is close to averaging that on his own with 99.9 yards per game. He is the main contributor to UCLA’s collective 148.3 yards. So yeah, give it to Kelley and run the ball.

2. S Adarius Pickett

UCLA has been going against some of the best offenses in the nation (currently there are four teams in the College Football Playoff that the Bruins have faced this season) and even though they have been tested, they are still standing. One of the rocks of UCLA’s defense is none other than senior safety Adarius Pickett who is leading the team in total tackles (107). Not only has he been a standout for the Bruins’ D, but with this being his last Crosstown Showdown (and after losing the last three) expect Pickett to have one of his best games of the season.

3. TE Caleb Wilson

The Bruins have power on the ground, but they also have a few solid weapons through the air. The biggest target is Wilson who is leading the team in total receiving yards (718), yards per game (71.8), and receiving touchdowns (4). Wilson has been deadly for UCLA, especially in the last few weeks. If he gets out into the open, USC will have a tough time bringing him down. Look for Wilson to be a huge contributor in UCLA’s offense, especially if they go pass-heavy

4. DE/OLB Keisean Lucier-South

The Bruins’ defense has had to endure a lot of injuries. Luckily, one of the players that is still forging ahead (despite being dinged up in the last few weeks) is the KLS! Lucier-South brings a ferocious pass rush and has had to do most of it alone as opposite side rushers Jaelan Phillips and Mique Juarez ended their seasons early due to injury. Nevertheless, KLS has been a hassle for opposing O-lines as he leads the team in both sacks (4) and tackles for a loss (11.5). With USC having offensive line issues, watch for the junior to get into the Trojans’ backfield several times in this game.

5. QB Wilton Speight

UCLA has solid running back, a top-tier tight end, and an experienced QB to help them fight, fight, fight their way past USC. Even though this is Speight’s only season with UCLA (he is a grad transfer in his final year of eligibility), he has brought knowledge and leadership to a team that is in transition. Last week, he had one of the best passing performances since Josh Rosen as he threw for 335 yards, 2 touchdowns and 9.6 yards per attempt against Arizona State.

The 30 Greatest UCLA Football Players of All-Time. dark. Next

If the Bruins can limit mistakes and put together a solid offensive outing with Kelley, Wilson, and Speight, and hold back USC on defense, they could put a beating on the Trojans. Let’s hope that is the case.