2018 Preview UCLA & USC

UCLA Bruins vs USC Trojans on November 18, 2017 (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360 News)
UCLA Theo Howard and Josh Woods during the PAC-12 Football Media Day 2018. Live at Ray Dolby Ballroom at the Hollywood and Highland Entertainment Center in Los Angeles, Ca. on July 25, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

PAC-12 Preview Part IV

UCLA

The UCLA Bruins football team is moving at whole new speed, ‘Kelly Fast’ behind their new coach Chip Kelly. After a few season in the NFL Kelly will look to dawn the New Look Bruins this season along with their new apparel sponsor Under Armour.

The bar is set but with little media coverage no one know what to expect from this UCLA team and the spread offense.

Michigan transfer Wilton Speight will be starting quarterback for the opening game with Theo Howard along with Christian Pabico as targets. Tight end Caleb Wilson looks to be back at 100% back from his injury to be a security blanket for the offense.

The depth chart has moved around little bit after Kelly suspended 6 players just before the season start for 1-3 games. Proposed starting running back Soso Jamabo and converted center Boss Tagaloa were among those suspend.

Adarius Pickett celebrates. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

The defense who returns six starters and most importantly their field general who came back for his senior season Adarius Pickett. The secondary being coached by veteran Paul Rhoads. Corner Darnay Holmes will be back after an impressive true freshman campaign, and looks to primed to contribute as kick return specialist again.

A noticeable change off the field should pay off well on the field, is the change in post game protein shakes and meal plans. Each player has a special drink for what there body type or goal. Then there’s chef who cooks meals for them to eat after practice and the ability to take a meal home.

Prediction 7-5

USC Trojans Team.(Photo by Ariawna Talton/ fi360 News)

USC

The USC Trojans are looking climb back to the top of college football ranks. Even though they have been on top of PAC-12 with Washington they have been able to compete with the elite.

Head coach Clay Helton has took notice that the Trojans need to build the interior line on both sides of the ball. This season the depth up front should allow for them to truly battle when the showcase games.

Reclassfield true Freshman JT Daniels will be only the second true freshman to start for the Trojans. Helton spoke to the healthy competition before naming the starter. Daniels separated himself during his highlighted scrimmages and big plays.

JT Daniels at ESPYs holding his Gatorade Player of Year Award. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

The defense who returns seven starters in the secondary and backers. Cameron Smith at middle linebacker will control the team and look to top his 118 tackles last season.

The senior leadership on this team should payoff in big close games. Ajene Harris who plays nickelback has continued to grow ever year as get ready for the next level.

Due to alternating schedule the Trojans can only face Washington or Oregon in the PAC-12 champions this season.

With the signing of 18 new players this season the Trojans will call on a few to step up now. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown will look to find a way on the field among a talented group. His innate ability to know where Daniels will throw the ball will be a key.

Prediction 10-3