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UCLA Football 2019: 100 things to look for with 100 days until kickoff

By Mike Regalado

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 17: Running back Joshua Kelley #27 of the UCLA Bruins looks over his shoulder as he heads for the end zone during the first second of a football game at Rose Bowl on November 17, 2018 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 17: Running back Joshua Kelley #27 of the UCLA Bruins looks over his shoulder as he heads for the end zone during the first second of a football game at Rose Bowl on November 17, 2018 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

41. A reduction in sacks and tackles for a loss is necessary

If UCLA wants to have an aggressive defense, they need to get in the backfield. Field position is going to be everything, especially when trying to put the Bruin offense in a spot to attack often and with minimal yardage to get downfield. So the defense has not just to disrupt the QBs and RBs, they need to put them on the ground.

42. LB Josh Woods, back from injury and into your hearts

There was a collective groan from the Bruin faithful when word came out of fall camp that Josh Woods sustained a season-ending leg injury. Not only did that affect the linebacker depth, but left the defense without one of their best LBs. Though he is still recovering, his return will be inspiring.

43. Demetric Felton, hybrid player

Felton is listed as a receiver, but he has been used as a running back by both Jim Mora and Chip Kelly so don’t be surprised if you see Felton pick up the ball in the backfield more than once next season. It will keep defenses guessing.

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44. Will we see an increase in heavy offensive personnel groupings?

Kelly took things up a notch with the massive groupings last season. The 13-personnel (one RB, three TEs) became a fixture in the offense, which led to some exciting pin and pull schemes by the line which opened up holes for the running backs. Knowing Kelly’s tendency to tinker with the offense, we could a whole new array of heavy-set formations in 2019.

45. Unsung hero: Long snapper Johnny Den Bleyker

No one ever gives respect to the long snapper, but if it were not for Johnny Den Bleyker, Stefan Flintoft would not have been able to pin so many balls deep in the opponent’s territory last season. Having consistency at this position will also help the new punter in his attempt to help with field position. Johnny, we salute you!