UCLA's new head coach needs to focus on rebuilding the trenches

UCLA's season will come to a close after next Saturday at the conclusion of the USC matchup. It was a disastrous season and many people are ready for it to finish. The Bruins battled coaching changes and stadium drama amidst a 3-8 record. That will most likely finish at 3-9, with USC being heavily favored next Saturday. It was a season that UCLA would like to hit the erase button and start a new chapter.

With the end of the season, comes the opportunity to begin the new era. A new coach will come on and be able to reset the school. Whether that is bringing in high quality recruits or players transferring from wherever the coach comes from. It is time to start building UCLA football again. Because 3-9 should never be the standard for a team that has beautiful weather, views and quality of education.

The focal point needs to be building the trenches. Something that UCLA has not had on both sides of the football in a long time. The offensive line cannot protect the quarterback or create running lanes. Nico Iamaleava is running for his life on every play, and his body is taking the brunt of hits. Then the defensive line cannot pressure leading to no sacks or turnovers. Which leaves the defensive backs and linebackers out to dry in coverage. Football games are simply won in the trenches, it is simple as that.

When the new coach is hired, the offensive and defensive lines are must haves to fix. That comes with hiring good coordinators and assistants that can coach and teach guys. Then getting out and finding the talent. No more throwing a band aid on things and expecting things to just flow as they are. This is not winning football and will not suffice for where this program needs to go. We have seen how good the Bruins can be when they build the line on both sides of the ball.

Seven days until the end of the season. As soon as that USC game finishes. The work needs to start on the next regime. The quicker the hire, the quicker the rebuild can start. It won’t be an overnight process. But once you start accumulating talent on the lines the grind will pay off. It is time to invest the time, energy and NIL resources to make it happen. It is more than just talk; there needs to be action as well.