UCLA Football: 3 Keys to Spring Practice

Nov 3, 2016; Boulder, CO, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Jim Mora before the game against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 3, 2016; Boulder, CO, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach Jim Mora before the game against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
5 of 5
Next
Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Final Thoughts

UCLA faces a very interesting situation this spring. Without significant improvement, Mora may be out of a job by December. He needs to prove that 2016 was a fluke and that a 4-8 record can not be tolerated.

Unfortunately for Mora, the offensive line is a huge question mark and the defense will be playing without two of its best players. With a new offensive coordinator, the onus will fall on Jedd Frisch to figure out how to integrate the talented skill players into a game plan that simplifies the offense for the inexperienced line.

The defense has the potential to be surprisingly strong, as Mora’s recruiting classes manifest on the field. Mique Juarez and Jaelan Phillips will be names that make an impact, but as freshmen, there may be a limit to the upside.

Ultimately, the 2017 prognostication comes down to Josh Rosen. Assuming he is healthy, he has the arm and brains that had Mora projecting him as the first overall draft pick.

Two years later, its time for the junior quarterback to perform. Mora’s future at UCLA, and the optimism behind the Bruin football team, is riding on the gunslinger.

Next: 3 Lakers Options Not Named Lonzo

Finally, it should be an interesting Spring.