UCLA Football: A Casual Thursday

UCLA's Spaulding Field

Scott Robinson

With the sun out, the Bruins went to work on a “casual” Thursday—dressing in black shorts and without their pads.

This time, however, Coach Mora bucked his black trend with a white long sleeve and matching cap.

Call it a dress rehearsal for the Spring Game: Today’s practice, with the play clock ticking, was primarily comprised of scrimmaging—as though everything were on the line.

Clock reads zero? Back it up five yards.

A receiver jumped early? Flags flew and a referee blew his whistle.

Holding? Back it up ten yards.

Coach Mora, not letting one second drop between the waves of groups, would grab a football and hustle down to a particular point on the field. Slamming the ball on the ground, he would then holler: “2^nd and 12” or “3^rd and 3.”

With the play clock rolling, timing was everything.

At one point, with Coaches on both sides of the lines screaming out plays and checks, QB Richard Brehaut stood under center. The play clock wound down and with a collective coaching wince and turn, time expired.

Mora, without hesitation, backed the ball up and the next play transpired as though it would on a Saturday: five yards behind the original line of scrimmage.

Of course, without pads on there was no tackling.

UCLA Football: Full Speed Ahead

UCLA's Spaulding Field Tuesday afternoon

Scott Robinson

It seems when Y Joseph Fauria is of proper health, he will be less focused on messing with the Special Teams. In what is becoming a tradition, Fauria will kick or throw the ST’s practice unit’s ball, as he makes for his warm-up routine.

Fauria, along with fellow Y Darius Bell had a partial day, with pads on during individual drills only to draw down for sprints at the end of practice.

Missing from practice was OG Jeff Baca, out with the flu, and LB’s Patrick Larimore (who has not been seen since his injury) and Jordan Zumwalt.

Also still out of pads were: OT Wade Yandall, OT Torian White, RB Damien Thigpen, RB Malcolm Jones (but ran sprints) and WR Devin Lucien, who left practice early with what Coach Mora called a “tweaked ankle,” or a left ankle sprain.

But back at were LB’s Eric Kendricks, Aaron Wallace and WR Jerry Rice Jr., whose dad was also spotted in attendance. Also along the sidelines was Bruin alum, Marcedes Lewis.

To top it off, half of Loyola High School’s football team was there too.

But apart from the growing glamor, between movie stars and ex-NFLer’s, this particular team is evolving. Now grasping what the coaching staff is throwing at them, the Bruins are in a groove when it comes to drills.

Coach Klemm now interrupts his cohorts a few steps further into their block.

Coach McClure’s unit is tossing around assistants—Legs in air and all.

But the learning curve continues: If its not “up-downs” with the offensive line, then its push-ups with Coach Martin.

UCLA Football: "Way to Work"

Saturday morning at UCLA's Spaulding Field

Scott Robinson

Nestled somewhere between good and pretty good was today’s practice. As the team huddled at the end, Mora’s demeanor was quite different from Thursday’s.

“Way to work,” Mora said. “Way to work…”

Learning curves are accelerating now as spring camp is becoming ever more game-like. Referees, crowd noise and situational scrimmaging can now be perceived as only the beginning.

Also growing closer to the speed of an actual football game were two QB’s: Brett Hundley and Richard Brehaut.

QB Kevin Prince took a step back, opening the door for both Hundley and Brehaut to take longer goes with the one’s.

With the better throwing performances came better receiving acts: WR’s Shaq Evans and Jerry Johnson showed an array of tough catches despite defensive hands a-plenty.

But with the scrimmaging, also came today’s emphasis: reality.

During the 11-on-11’s, not only were the linesmen keeping with what would have been the actual down and yardage, but plays that saw defenders sneak through for potential sacks were then also taken into account. This meant, whenever DE Datone Jones or NT Brandon Willis, broke through the pocket for what would be a sack, the next play the corresponding spot was put where the sack would have occurred.

Also, this meant every time a false start occurred, the ball was moved back the appropriate five yards. And this happened a few times—which is understandable, given the amount of movement on the offensive line.

Troubling, though, was an instance in which both RB Jordan James and WR Shaq Evans were clearly not lined up and moved prior to the hike. The teaching moment followed; Mora, with hands on both the helmets of James and Evans, stopped to explain the importance of lining up correctly—especially when five yards backwards could be the result.

This coach has an eye for detail, apparently.

UCLA Football: Mora's Transitive Property

UCLA's Spaulding Field

Scott Robinson

Coming across the play was LB Isaiah Bowens, just recently lining up with the one’s due to the barrage of injuries befalling upon the line-backing core. One second before the tackle, the RB rolled to the ground with his helmet directly impacting Bowens’ knee.

The sound of helmets and pads cracking was next, quickly followed by a handful of trainers jogging in concern towards the player lying on the field. Bowens’ hands clutched his knee, while he rolled on the ground.

It was a rough play, with a rough ending: Bowens’ injury looks like it may be one that will put him on the sideline for a while. He required two helpers to get off the field. When Coach Mora was asked about him after practice, he said:

“I don’t, obviously, know the severity of it yet, but it’s a knee sprain… They took him in, and we’ll see where he is…”

Just a few plays before, Bowens laid a powerful hit on RB Malcolm Jones—sending Jones to the ground with an audible thud, heard even fifty yards away.

But that’s football; Physical, painful and costly. An MRI is expected to determine Bowens’ extent of injury.

Good thing Coach Mora has a few players in the fold coming this summer to shore up the LB depth issues, because as of today, the following are out: Jordan Zumwalt, Patrick Larimore, Anthony Barr, Aaron Wallace and now, Isaiah Bowens.

Seeing Bowens’ spot, after his injury, was both Ryan Hoffmeister and Jared Koster. Already in the mix was LB Aramide Olaniyan, who followed up a strong Tuesday with another great practice.

Olaniyan picked up a fumbled ball by RB Jordan James; A difficult play considering he was in the midst of tackling only to adjust for a scoop of the ball.

But beyond Olaniyan is nothing but a question mark. Hoffmeister and Koster might have trouble seeing the light of day once the new crop comes to town.

The 2012 recruiting class is looking ever more important as the injuries pile up. From the class, expected to compete for some field time at LB are: Aaron Porter (6’2 / 230), Kenny Orjioke (6’4 / 225), Jeremy Castro (6’3 / 245) and Nate Iese (6’4 / 235).

Wise decision, not conceding the year of 2012.

Feels Good…

Coach Mora was at it again at practice, this time delivering a few choice words to OG Alberto Cid. During the 11-on-11’s LB Eric Kendricks got into it with OT Brett Downey, pushing and shoving—And just when it appeared to be sewing up, Cid came in tow and then the “gassers” began.

Heard from the bleachers was Mora, again in the trending Johnny Cash get-up:

“You’re killing your football team!”

UCLA Football: Gray, but a Good Day

UCLA's Spaulding Field

Scott Robinson

The crew behind the picked-up pace seem to be enjoying themselves lately. At the very least, there was a smile adorned on Coach Mora’s face as the team continued their work on Day Ten.

Coach Mora, in what must be the college football version of a Johnny Cash get-up, looked pleased with his black hat, black long sleeve and black gym shorts.

After practice, Mora confided: “It was a good day for us.”

Notwithstanding the injuries to the LB core, with Patrick Larimore (concussion), Jordan Zumwalt (stomach), Aaron Wallace (concussion) and Anthony Barr (quadriceps), the coach was still in high spirits after practice.

Rightfully so: The defense is starting to look pretty good.

Again with the first team was LB Isaiah Bowens, who was flanked by LB’s Damien Holmes, Eric Kendricks and Keenan Graham. Also getting time with the one’s was LB Aramide Olaniyan, who had another strong performance when given the opportunity.

During the 11-on-11’s, Olaniyan found himself in the right spot to intercept a ball tipped by DC Anthony Jefferson, who also had a great day.

Later on in practice, Jefferson was involved in another dust-up with WR Tyler Scott—To the point that it required Coach Ulbrich to step in and toss the players aside. Even with the scramble, Jefferson’s name is beginning to get noticed.

Coach Mora on Jefferson: “Gets a little better everyday… He’s becoming a legitimate player to me. He’s tough, he’s aggressive, he’s physical, he’s playing with more confidence…”

“All good teams know how to finish.”

With the gray sky and a chill in the air, it was the perfect sort of day to test the team’s consistency

“I think having this kind of weather helps a little bit,” said Mora.

Whatever the case, today’s efforts pushed through until the end.

Between the strong secondary showing during the 11-on-11’s (quite a few picks again) and the level of intensity witnessed at the end of practice in the Oklahoma-type Drill, the defense continues to flesh out a stout and consistent mentality.

They are here to dominate.

UCLA Football: Turn Up the Music

UCLA's Spaulding Field Saturday morning

Scott Robinson

As the first few drills took place, today’s practice brought with it a new mentality of confidence. With music now on the loudspeakers, the NFL theme song piped through the as the Bruins began practice installing their respective playbooks.

Unlike Thursday, the stands were packed full and along the sidelines roamed a party of coaches and recruits.

Today, spectators even camped out along Parking Lot six, looking over the East side of Spaulding from various levels in the structure. Entering this morning, UCLA held a coaching clinic—College jerseys of the respective staff present were shown along the fence separating Spaulding from Pauley’s construction site.

There was a feel out there unlike any other practice: a business mentality was at the forefront. From the get-go, even when players were stretching, the Bruins were attentive and quick to direction.

The energy was also evident: Another near dust-up pitted Cassius Marsh against Kevin Prince—One has to like the cut-throat attitude carried by the team nowadays.

Rounding out the practice was a good amount of 11-on-11’s, yielding further insight into how the depth charts might look once the remaining 2012 recruits arrive this summer.

The One’s

Starting with the defense, there appears to be a consistent group working as the first team (“the White jerseys”).

UCLA Football: A Situational Education

UCLA's Pauley Pavilion behind Spaulding Field

Scott Robinson

It was a down day for the Bruin quarterbacks as interceptions came often during 11-on-11 scrimmaging.

At the onset of the day was Coach Mora slinging the old pigskin to QB Brett Hundley. As mentioned by other sources following practice, this pigskin is not old.

In fact, the new ball being used appears slightly different. As they had catch, QB Hundley could be heard saying to Mora: “The laces feel slippery.”

Mora responded, “Yeah, they feel a little high.”

Whatever the problem might be with the football, the QB’s showed they did not have a solid grip on it today. Between QB’s Kevin Prince, Richard Brehaut, Jerry Neuheisel and Brett Hundley, there were at least three INT’s.

But even with the dismal display of quarterbacking, this team is learning and continues to work.

Starter Who?

If one QB had a good showing during Day Eight, it would be Prince. Today, he exhibited less of an attachment to his receiving corps—on at least three different instances, Prince shook off his primary and turned his head to opposite field.

One pass, Prince hit WR Tyler Scott specifically because of his shake off—He looked down WR Devin Lucien, pulling DS McKay off the top, allowing WR Scott a one-on-one and a subsequent completion in stride.

Prince’s throws seemed crisper and displayed less “happy feet” despite being pushed out of the pocket a couple times. On another throw, Prince plopped a 30-yard pass right into WR Lucien’s hands along the sideline—It was quite a pretty toss.

Brehaut, meanwhile, had one of his worst practices. In addition to throwing a ball up for grabs, he fumbled a snap and often had trouble during the 11-on-11's; at least one throw was tipped at the line of scrimmage.

Of the younger QB’s, TJ Millweard showed one particular toss that was very impressive. Looking downfield to a covered WR Roosevelt Davis, Millweard delivered it where only his receiver could catch it—And if the WR did not reel it in, there was no chance anyone could. Davis, leaning back to his right shoulder, dipped down and snagged the ball, even with three defenders around.

At this point I would say Millweard might have the most upside.

UCLA Football: The Next Step

The Bruins stretch at UCLA's Spaulding Field

Scott Robinson

It was another beautiful day in the Westwood neighborhood.

What a shame the fans were not there to share it: The crowd has now thinned out substantially.

The recruits did not seem to notice, however. At today’s practice were the following:

Name	Position	Year
Troy Williams	QB	2013
John Ross	WR/DB	2013
DaMari Scott	WR	2013

Imagine what winning will do for recruiting…

The Bruins are now roughly half-way done with their spring practices—only eight more until the Spring Game. So far, if one were forced to name the three major differences from one year ago, they easily could be surmised as follows: tempo, true competition and game simulating drilling.

All the things a coach might want to get better.

There’s still a lot of work to be done, though.

Wrinkles

Today, a number of the same drills seen throughout spring practice added a few more folds in complexity.

This certainly bodes well for the new coaching staff.

On the one hand, this “next step” might reflect a better grasp of Coach Mora’s expectations. On the other, these wrinkles might push to the margins some previous starters.

Either way, the Bruins win.

UCLA Football: Back to the Basics

Practice Onlookers at UCLA's Parking Lot 8

Scott Robinson

The stands, although still near full, were nothing like they were only one week ago.

No, Primetime and John Stamos did not walk through the door.

An overcast day must have weeded out the bandwagon from the faithful. Despite the clouds, and a cool nip in the air, the True Blue spectators brought a jacket and took to Parking Lot 8.

On the field, the team surely did not notice—they played through each drill, kept the hustle apparent and continue to exhibit the sort of drive necessary to make sure all the small things are being learned.

Players are communicating. They chip at the opponent. They talk after plays. The coaches are in their ear—and they are listening.

Case and point: RB Damien Thigpen ran a flat in front of WR’s coach, Steve Broussard. Post-catch, Thigpen sprinted up the left sideline—But that wasn’t good enough.

“Outside arm! Outside arm!” Broussard yelled.

With his head high, Thigpen shook it off and stuck the pigskin in the appropriate arm on the next play.

To some, these are the basics of football. To this team, this is a learning curve: the arena, coaching staff and tools are there for the taking. Now this team has to just keep it up.

Another example of this growing need to get better: QB Brett Hundley delivered a perfectly spiraling 30-yarder to a streaking WR Shaquelle Evans—who promptly dropped the TD. As Evans ran back towards the huddle, while the next team jumped in, him and Hundley discussed the drop. Later in the 11-on-11’s, Hundley threw the same ball, this time facing the opposing end-zone, and Evans spooled in what would have been a beautiful six points.

They’re learning. And, they’re getting better.

Never Settle

Today’s practice continued to maintain the expected high level of intensity. Another “dust-up” occurred between RB Dalton Hilliard and DE Brandon Willis.

Between the piped in fan noise and the focus on tempo, these drills continue to embody a tangible experience, as practice should be.

Furthermore, the coaching staff seems to maximize each sort of drill—Whether that’s five QB’s passing simultaneously or a hurry-up allowing for three to four plays in the span of one minute.

They want more.

On the recruiting front, UCLA stocked up on another offensive lineman in Fallbrook High School’s 2013 OT Sean Dowling (6’6 / 265). While attending practice Dowling gave a verbal to the Bruins, despite garnering offers from Arizona, Colorado, Duke, Navy, San Diego State and Washington State.

UCLA Football: Slurpee Swag

Sinbad & Keyshawn Johnson at UCLA's Spaulding Field

Scott Robinson

With his head swung around over his left shoulder, WR Jerry Johnson reached out with one arm in an attempt to reel in a poorly thrown ball.

Running what looked like a 10-yard out during a 7-on-5, the ball came his way, he reached and touched it, but didn’t have it.

As it is with most drills these days at UCLA, the next wave of Bruins jumped into place, only seconds after Johnson ran off to the sidelines.

One moment later, none other than Keyshawn Johnson, three-time NFL Pro-Bowler, got into Number Nine’s ear.

The very next chance Jerry jumped in, two hands were used and a catch was made.

I asked Johnson about what knowledge Mr. Seven-Eleven imparted:

“[He said] go for the ball with both hands, instead of trying to be spectacular and make a one-handed catch. Do what’s necessary to make the play.”

Makes you wonder what the Trojan fan-base has to say about their alumni tipping off pointers to what appears to be an up-and-coming program.

“It was good hearing from a person like him,” continued Jerry Johnson, “He knows the game, he’s been through it before, you know, he’s a veteran.”

Tackle This

With hits left and right, physical play was constant. As players collided, especially with Pauley in the backdrop, echoes of helmets cracking smacked in the air throughout all of practice.

With this marking the second day in pads, the energy on the field continued to stay up. Perhaps the best indicator of this high-energy is the fact that the defense and offense are barking at each other through-out their scrimmaging drills.

On one particular play, where WR Johnson faced up against DC Aaron Hester, a pass from QB TJ Millweard sailed low and away; Johnson pointed as if to tell Millweard to get it higher and he’ll catch it.

Hester thought otherwise—He spat out in defiance: “NO, NO, NO, NO!”

UCLA Football: Two Yards Too Short

UCLA's Spaulding Field, Saturday Morning

Scott Robinson

What audacity.

Two yards from the sideline, amidst a sun-drenched morning at Spaulding Field, RT Brett Downey slowed down his pace as the next offensive line unit hopped in for the subsequent drill.

Suddenly, Coach Mora, with veins bursting from his forehead, abruptly stopped the play. Stepping out from behind the defense, Mora belted out at Downey in a hoarse scream:

“Run your ass off the field or run out there!”

Mora pointed to the exit of Spaulding.

“Over-the-wall” sure seems silly under such expectations of hustle: Apparently, this new coach’s mantras has teeth to go along with his coach-speak.

Responsive, Downey ran everywhere from that point on.

Seems as though these messages are being received.

When the right tackle was asked about the incident, he replied: “It’s intense. They’re expecting perfection.”

To be sure, this regime has made it clear: There is no acceptance of a complacent mentality. Players are expected to get on board or get out.

With the morning’s outburst came Coach Mora’s point: Players are now competing for any spot, even on the practice team.

My Way or the Highway

If one theme could be derived from today’s practice, it’s this: The players must hustle to be on the field. Period.

And with this message, comes the fruition of the delivery: basics are being dealt with, finally. On all fronts, be it the running backs, defensive lines (what have you), the staff is communicating their expectations consistently.

From the looks of it, there is a method to this madness. In lieu of a sideline rant, where a coach would pop off and appear ready to shear clean his quarterback’s head, this staff is delivering the “teach-able” moments at the appropriate time: Practice.

UCLA Football: The Bruin Hustle

UCLA Tight End Joseph Fauria

Scott Robinson

As evidenced by the variance in snaps, the QB position appears to be at the forefront as this spring’s most important decision for Coach Mora. Luckily for the coach, the quarterbacks threw with a little more certainty and confidence today as the separation in the race began to unveil itself.

Working with the first group, comprised of Kevin Prince, Brett Hundley and Richard Brehaut, the coaching staff continued to impart game-tangible lessons as the practice progressed. In the second group, and showing slightly less accuracy today, were TJ Millweard, Jerry Neuheisel and Mike Fafaul.

Between the three quarterbacks vying for the starter role, Prince might have shown the best performance of the day. Prince hit Fauria and Shaq Evans in stride on a couple plays—definitely better in timing and shoulder placement than on Tuesday. Hundley showed improvement in the medium to longer passes, with two exceptionally zipped spirals into a slant by Jerry Rice Jr. and post pattern by Jordan James, respectively.

Richard Brehaut, however, looks like the most well-rounded QB. Not the best spirals, nor necessarily the most accurate but today he seemed to hit the most receivers with catch-able balls.

Of the RB’s, Dalton Hilliard continues to show incredible accelerating speed and soft hands. Despite having some trouble holding onto the ball again, Hilliard displayed—a number of times—the ability to cradle in a tough pass and turn up-field. Such a play-maker, one that can deliver the after-the-catch yardage, was sorely missing from last year’s offense.

Between Hilliard, James and Lucien, Mazzone will have quite a few options.

Tempo, Tempo, Tempo

The squad looked even faster in practice today, as they continue to learn the expected pace between drills. With what appears to be a greater bang for the buck in this quicker practice regimen, the energy also incidentally continues to rise.

UCLA Football: Football is Physical?

UCLA's Head Coach Jim Mora

Scott Robinson

Today represented the first football practice for Coach Mora in two years, three months and a little change.

And he was not the only one excited at the advent of the spring season.

Actually, the Bruins’ kin, fans and friends packed full the first practice’s stands—the excitement was palpable. Coach Mora, decked in black shorts and a gray UCLA shirt, heralded this practice as only the beginning.

“I’m pleased with the effort—Pleased with the attitude,” said Mora as he sipped on his Gatorade Rejuvenate after Day One. Flanked by the media and their cameras, the coach looked as though he’s done this kind of thing before.

When asked about a starting QB, Mora was quick to quip: “[We] have to let it happen.” A calculated but experienced response—which should be expected from the sort of coach that was born into a NFL coach’s family and then spent 25 years of his own in the league.

Meanwhile, Mora’s process of vetting out such a starter began with Kevin Prince taking the one’s, Brett Hundley the two’s and Richard Brehaut the three’s. Alongside them snapped TJ Millweard, Jerry Neuheisel and walk-on Mike Fafual, who has a slingshot of an arm, by the way.

One practice down, 14 more to go.

Change? Prove it.

While it was clear this was the first team practice, there was certainly a level of focus unlike any seen in the recent past.

Clearly, this coaching staff is attempting to prepare the team with tangible exercises—ones meant to replicate actual game-play with the purpose to translate onto Saturdays.

One example: Defensive players were clearly instructed to strip the ball, as every moment of contact between them and the offense led to the grappling of arms. Another: the QB’s appeared to throw against a changing defense—specifically looking for the open man.

UCLA Football: Spring Practice Starts Tuesday

Scott Robinson

The UCLA Football team starts practice this next Tuesday, April 3rd.  I will be there with live updates!

If you have any particular questions for coaches or players you'd like to hear from, tweet at me:

@UCLASportsBlog

For all the most up-to-date information, be sure to also follow:

@BruinsBall

2012 UCLA Bruins Spring Practice Schedule:

Tuesday, Thursday Practices [Spaulding Field, UCLA Campus]:
4/3 & 4/5 – 3:45 PM
4/10 & 4/12 – 3:45 PM
4/17 & 4/19 – 3:45 PM
4/24 & 4/26 – 3:45 PM

Saturday Practices [Spaulding Field, UCLA Campus]:
4/7 – 9:30 AM
4/14 – 9:30 AM
4/21 – 1:00 PM
4/28 – 1:00 PM

Spring Game [The Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA]:
5/5 – 5:00 PM

Follow Spring Practice at BruinsBall.com

UCLA Football: The On-Season. Part 3: The Future

Dan Guerrero - Photo Courtesy OCRegister.com

Scott Robinson

As the short days of winter wane into the face of spring, UCLA is currently prepping their squad for the upcoming football season. Inroads against a crumbling recent past, one littered with muttering descriptions of mediocrity, are beginning to show a clear path, one with resolve throughout the entirety of UCLA’s athletic program.

During this off-season we've focused on some key data sets pointing towards many different areas needing improvement. As far as coaching is concerned, different practice motifs of efficiency (under the helm of the specialist, Coach Alosi) stand to drastically improve the team with football-specific training.

As both Defensive Coordinator Lou Spanos and Offensive Coordinator Noel Mazzone arrive with a “clean slate,” a mistrusting Bruin faithful fanbase might be asking:

“What else has changed that could possibly lead us to believe Mora’s regime is coalescing towards winning?”

Reports are trickling in of players jumping aboard and heeding guidance from the rallying Coach with extensive NFL experience. But now, it’s not just the players, it’s the administration that’s lining up to right the ship.

In fact, it’s been an incredibly demanding, yet productive, season for one particular UCLA Athletics Department…

Pro-Activity

Despite his absurdly busy schedule, I was lucky enough to talk with Nick Ammazzalorso, UCLA’s Executive Director of Athletic Communications. His role, while newly established, has quickly augmented the football team’s return to relevancy. Acting through both media promotion and most recently, crisis response, Ammazzalorso’s position has quickly become indispensable to UCLA’s ability to mitigate negative press or misinformation.

“Pro-activity,” Ammazzalorso states, “is the key to all teams [in their efforts for success].” One might scoff at such a statement, especially in light of the recent Sports Illustrated article. However, consider UCLA’s ability to respond, most competently, via statement and affirmation of Ben Howland’s return: I would say it would have been much worse without the likes of Ammazzalorso or his department’s function.

UCLA Football: The On-Season. Part 2: The Present

 Sal Alosi - Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Scott Robinson

The winter off-season… Hope and promise is plentiful. Message boards flutter in excitement at roster switches and weight increases. Interviews on the practice field or weight room always come packaged with the same delivery: “We’re getting stronger. We’re getting faster…” That’s typically followed by a trainer pointing to some exercise sheet and showing a higher number for an athlete’s lifting capacity.

But UCLA was “stronger and faster” last year… So, why did they only improve marginally, from a 4-8 to a 6-8 record? If stronger and faster is not a true indicator, then what can be collected as progress from a team during the off-season?

Perhaps it’s just having the right mind-set. History has shown, time and time again, that it is possible to reform a team in very little time—Even under the helm of a first year coach. Maybe it’s just the coach?

Or maybe it’s both.

Considering Parcells (1-15 to 9-7), Jim Mora (3-13 to 13-3) and even Jim L. Mora (5-11 to 11-5) did it, the task of turning around a down program can most definitely be achieved within one off-season. Take Sparano’s 2008 Dolphins: Despite getting a pink slip this past year, he revved up Miami from just one win to 11 within a single year—tying an NFL record for most increased wins ever, year-over-year.

UCLA Men's Basketball: Bruins Lose a Close One

Tyler Lamb - Photo courtesy of Adam Kazmierski

Scott Robinson

The last time UCLA was featured on CBS, they faltered to an all-freshmen starting five in St. John’s at Madison Square Garden. Today, UCLA (16-13) dropped another road game under CBS’ national spotlight in front of the hostile crowd at the McKale Center. With the win, 65-63, the surging Arizona Wildcats (21-9) have now won six of their last seven.

A sloppy first few minutes, the Bruins took an early 12-10 lead with 11:00 left in the first. Back and forth through-out the opening half, UCLA had four straight turnovers in a span of six possessions. To make matters worse, even without getting the start, Josh Smith had picked up his third foul by the 6:00 mark in the first half. With Smith stymied by a more athletic Wildcat team, a couple of Bruins stepped up and should be credited for their efforts in keeping it close: Jerime Anderson and Travis Wear. Had it not been for that tandem’s first half performance (T. Wear’s nine points, six rebounds and Anderson’s 10 points, three rebounds), the game could have quickly gotten out of hand.

Although averaging only 11.9 turnovers a game, UCLA had already committed nine by the last minutes of the first. Staying in it up to the half was key in helping UCLA work through Smith’s foul trouble. A continued close game, UCLA and Arizona traded leads through the opening minutes of the second half. With 10:35 to go, UCLA finally hit their first three-pointer. A quick steal by Lamb followed by a lay-up by Anderson pushed the Bruin lead to six. Arizona answered quickly, closing it to 45-44 with 8:42 to go. A deep uncalled bank thudded in at the turn of the shot clock, giving Lamb his second three and UCLA a four point lead with six to go.

Despite a nice rebound and lay-up sequence by Smith, Arizona took back the lead, 54-53, with 3:52 left in the game. The Wildcat lead was pushed to five after Arizona’s Jesse Perry and Solomon Hill put up a couple baskets, making it 60-55 at the 2:00 mark. With under a minute to play, Smith was brought back to the line to make it 63-61, Arizona. Then, with 12.6 seconds left, UCLA was kept in the game after three of four missed free throws by the Wildcats. Consecutive fouls gave the Bruins the bonus with 9.0 seconds left. Two free-throws by Anderson put it back to a one-point game. After a forced foul, Kyle Fogg missed another free throw—Giving Anderson 7.9 seconds to drive and eventually miss a potential game-tying jumper as time expired. A close game through and through, including over 11 lead changes, it came down the final possession.

UCLA Football: The On-Season. Part 1: The Past

Image courtesy UCLABruins.com

Scott Robinson

Today’s feature will venture into last year’s movement of UCLA’s Football Program from the Winter and Spring back to the Fall. Part 2: The Present, 2012 Off-Season (later this week) will follow the developments for this upcoming season…

Suddenly, under the helm of Coach Mora, UCLA is beginning to form a clear path towards college football relevancy. Highlighted by keen observers of scholarship counts, clarifications of star athlete relationships with a certain QB guru (and his dating patterns) and other sketchy poaching, er, coaching media releases, UCLA now appears poised for a new beginning: to be loathed. And that's a good thing.

With an influx of talent welcomed in the 2012 recruiting class, UCLA’s lineup is now, undoubtedly, up in the air. An unthinkable feat, Mora has managed to sew up a stellar coaching staff, sign a group of top-25 athletes and appears to be developing a broad-sweeping change to UCLA’s culture of complacency.

Of course, the churning up of a hopeful Bruin fan-base does not come without a grain (or pounds) of salt.

Any skeptic will point towards where such achievements can be best measured: wins. You should stop now if you are the type of fan that likes to point at any particular win, as though it were some empirical sign of progress (like against ASU last year). To be clear: There is no win-percentage next season that will determine UCLA’s barometer of success. Sure, over .500 implies a better team than last year, but does it matter if they only win when the opposition gift-wraps the W? Rather, for a successful season, this team will need to be in every game they play.

Ahhh, “In every game…” What the hell does that mean? Neuheisel used to prime it as staying in the game until the 4^th quarter. Too many of them were over by the 1^st.

So here’s a start: How about actually being in it every 4^th quarter.

I’d take that for Mora’s first season.

But before the Fall, and the potential wins that follow, the most important season must run it’s course: The off-season.

Work. Quickly.

There is a large contingent of buzz words utilized by coaches to impart their philosophies onto a team, especially one that is new to them. A perfect example would be Joe Tresey, UCLA’s Defensive Coordinator for 2011. Replacing Chuck Bullough, Tresey produced the 88^th ranked team in Total Defense. And in the Spring before such a product, catchy phrases came alongside nearly every “coaching item:”

Gotta play fast. Gotta play with urgency and gotta play with a high-motor. Good stance, good start… It’s about playing fast every snap.

Unfortunately, Tresey, apparently now DC at Youngstown State, continued to preach missiles in an age of lasers.

UCLA Football: A Herculean Task

Matthew Slater, New England Patriots. Image courtesy Matthew J. Lee / Boston Globe

Scott Robinson

No, there was no helicopter. Yes, Coach Mora was in four states in one day. The official announcement came back in December and 30 minutes later began the journey from rookie college coach to Recruiter of the Year. After a few blurry-eyed weeks, a couple thousand frequent flier miles and endless hours of ear-racketeering, UCLA’s Jim L. Mora has officially knocked out a Top-25 recruiting class.

Great. That’s just great.

I really have no intentions of sliding what the new staff has done since the hire: It’s nothing short of remarkable. That’s even without considering where UCLA once stood just months ago. Undeniably, the Bruin coaches combined for one of the biggest National Signing Day surprises on February 1st. And in no disrespect to the coveted talent now legally bound to the university: Welcome aboard, gentlemen.

Here’s my problem: last I checked this team still sits on a pile of work yet to be done.

No offense, literally and statistically, but they’re coming off a few really bad years for the football program. The most recent UCLA product spewed a bevy of troubles—any of which could be pinned at multiple points during the body of work this season.

For one, remember this? A trifecta of torment: Penalties (11 – 105 yards), 3^rd Down Conversion (2 for 13), and a one-way offense (286 yards passing, 37 rushing). Shutting down the run game put the pressure on a position of weakness— in doing so, well, it got a little out of hand…

And then there was no defense.

Or, we could just say 50-0. I won’t even dignify any other statistics from that one… That loss really hurt. Let’s just say it’s been a long, long season—Let alone decade.

During these years the Bruin fan-base had been calling for competition, diligence and accountability. Really, they just wanted every game to actually be a game. Instead, answers came in so many unexpected, fun forms: ones like win-loss, suspensions, run-run-pass, penalties, punting is winning or the always available static play-calling.

Oh, it gets better.

A perfect bookend to this past season: Neuheisel fired and a new NCAA record of being the first 6-8 college football team, ever. Adding salt to the wounds was every college pundit sniping at a down UCLA with all the colloquial Pistol-potency cracks imaginable. There was no doubt the regime was to be usurped.

Meanwhile, in the fray brewed a charged and displaced coach in wait, scheming: The true sleeping giant.

UCLA Football: Randall Goforth Commits to the Bruins

Scott Robinson

What a National Signing Day!  Another WR, 2012 CA Randall Goforth (6'0 / 175), has committed to Coach Mora and the UCLA Bruins.  Here are some of his highlights:




Randall Goforth #2 2010 Season Highlights - Courtesy of LBPOLYFootball

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UCLA Football: Ahmaad Harris Commits to the Bruins

Scott Robinson

Coach Mora has confirmed another WR has committed to UCLA.  The latest is 2012 GA WR Ahmaad Harris (5'8 / 175).  Here are some of his highlights:




WR Ahmaad Harris 2012 Senior Highlights - Courtesy throughhymn

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UCLA Football: More LOI's are in...

Scott Robinson

And more LOI's are rolling through the fax machine... 

The first tweet from Head Coach Jim L. Mora confirmed the following recruits as received:

-Ellis McCarthy
-Jeremy Castro
-Devin Fuller
-Nate Iese 

Second tweet:
-Ishmael Adams
-Eli Ankou
-Simon Goines
-Ahmaad Harris
-Carl Hulick

Third tweet:
-Taylor Lagace
-TJ Millweard
-Fabian Moreau
-Kenny Orjioke
-Jordan Payton
-Paul Perkins

Fourth tweet:
-Aaron Porter
-Marcos Rios
-Ian Taubler
-Lacy Westbrook
-Javon Williams

Fifth tweet:
-Ka'imi Fairbairn

Sixth tweet:
-Kenny Walker

Seventh tweet:
-Colby Cyburt

Eighth tweet:
-Justin Combs


24 UCLA confirmed LOI's...

Updated as of 2:30 PM.  

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UCLA Football: Jordan Payton flips to the Bruins

Scott Robinson

In one of the biggest signing day surprises since S Dietrich Riley spurned Southern Cal, WR Jordan Payton  (6'2 / 205) intends to play for UCLA.  Here are some of his highlights:


 
Jordan Payton Junior Highlights - Courtesy of ALLSTARAPPROACH

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UCLA Football: Javon Williams Commits to the Bruins

Scott Robinson

UCLA picked up another WR recruit in 2012 AZ Javon Williams (6'5 / 185) this morning.  Here are some of his highlights:



Javon Williams 2010 Football Highlights - Courtesy of keltonwood

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UCLA Football: LOI's trickling in...

Scott Robinson

We just received the first tweet from Head Coach Jim L. Mora confirming the following LOI's as received:

-Ellis McCarthy
-Jeremy Castro
-Devin Fuller
-Nate Iese 

Additionally, media outlets have reported the following LOI's as processed:

-Aaron Porter
-Paul Perkins
-Carl Hulick

Furthermore, a certain hack who fronts as a UCLA "beat reporter" continues to froth in yellow journalism with an annual 85 scholarship muckraking headline.  Of course, for those actually in touch with the NCAA handbook, we might review the following...

Believe it or not, but the hooting and hollering about UCLA’s total number of available golden tickets can actually be collected from the NCAA bylaws. Specifically, this one on pg. 115:

13.9.2.3 Limitation on Number of National Letter of Intent/Offer of Financial Aid Signings—Bowl Subdivision Football. [FBS]

In bowl subdivision football, there shall be an annual limit of 28 on the number of prospective student-athletes who may sign a National Letter of Intent or an institutional offer of financial aid from the initial signing date of the regular signing period of the National Letter of Intent through May 31. [D] (Adopted: 1/16/10 effective 8/1/10)

Of course, the 85 Annual Scholarship Limit is only enforced at the onset of the 2012 season (i.e. when players report in June).  A little digging in the NCAA Handbook and we would find:

15.5.6.3 Initial Counters—Football (Also see Bylaw 15.02.3.1).

15.5.6.3.1 Recruited Student-Athlete Entering in Fall Term, Aided in First Year. [FBS/FCS] A

student-athlete recruited (see Bylaw 15.02.8) by the awarding institution who enters in the fall term and

receives institutional financial aid (based in any degree on athletics ability) during the first academic year in

residence shall be an initial counter for that year in football. Therefore, such aid shall not be awarded if the

institution has reached its limit on the number of initial counters prior to the award of institutional financial

aid to the student-athlete. (Revised: 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11)

15.5.6.3.2 Recruited Student-Athlete Entering After Fall Term, Aided in First Year. [FBS/FCS] A student-athlete recruited (per Bylaw 15.02.8) by the awarding institution who enters after the first term of

the academic year and immediately receives institutional financial aid (based in any degree on athletics ability) shall be an initial counter for either the current academic year (if the institution’s annual limit has not been reached) or the next academic year. The student-athlete shall be included in the institution’s total counter limit during the academic year in which the aid was first received. (Revised: 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11)

15.5.6.3.3 Recruited Student-Athlete, Aid Received After First Year. [FBS/FCS] A recruited student-athlete (per Bylaw 15.02.8) (including a student-athlete who was not a qualifier) who first receives

athletically related financial aid after the student-athlete’s first academic year in residence shall be an initial

counter for that academic year in which the aid is first received, if such aid is received during the fall term.

However, such a student-athlete who first receives athletically related financial aid in the second or third term of an academic year may be considered an initial counter during the academic year in which aid was first received or the next academic year. In either case, the student-athlete shall be included in the institution’s total counter limit during the academic year in which the aid was first received. (Revised: 1/3/06, 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11)

15.5.6.3.4 Nonrecruited Student-Athlete Receiving Institutional Financial Aid. [FBS/FCS] A

student-athlete not recruited (per Bylaw 15.02.8) by the institution who receives institutional financial aid

(based in any degree on athletics ability) after beginning football practice becomes a counter but need not

be counted as an initial counter until the next academic year if the institution has reached its initial limit

for the year in question. However, the student-athlete shall be considered in the total counter limit for the

academic year in which the aid was first received. (Revised: 1/15/11 effective 8/1/11)

15.5.6.3.5 Midyear Replacement. [FBS/FCS] A counter who graduates at midyear or who graduates

during the previous academic year (including summer) may be replaced by an initial counter, who shall be

counted against the initial limit either for the year in which the aid is awarded (if the institution’s annual

limit has not been reached) or for the following academic year, or by a student-athlete who was an initial

counter in a previous academic year and is returning to the institution after time spent on active duty in the

armed services or on an official religious mission. In bowl subdivision football, an institution may use the

midyear replacement exception only if it previously has provided financial aid during that academic year

to the maximum number of overall counters (85 total counters). In championship subdivision football,

an institution may use the midyear replacement exception only if it previously has provided financial aid

during that academic year that equals the maximum number of overall equivalencies or overall counters.

(Revised: 4/20/99 effective 8/1/99, 6/8/99, 4/26/01 effective 8/1/01, 8/2/05, 12/15/06, 1/14/08 effective 8/1/08, 4/2/10, 1/15/11)

One could also venture further; we could find an understanding as to how “Medical Retirements” function.  Look on pgs. 200-203 of the NCAA 2011-2012 Handbook and one would find the following:

-Information on One-year Renewals

-Information on Counters

-Information on Medical Retirements

-Information on Institutional Obligations

Clearly, someone forgot to review the actual rules regarding LOI’s…  But hey, why don't we let them count if they want to!

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Happy Birthday, Jackie Robinson.

Scott Robinson

Lost in the craze of National Signing Day, today marks what would have been Mr. Jackie Robinson's 93rd birthday.  As a tribute to the man who changed the face of baseball and beyond, I felt a quick nod was necessary to the #28 before he became known as the infamous #42.  Nestor, of BruinsNation.com, put up a nice piece earlier today (inspiring my post, with Robinson's #28 uniform number showcased):

Happy Birthday, Mr. Robinson

An oldie, but goodie, the following biopic might provide some insight as to how he actually came to be known as the Jackie Robinson we understand and cherish today.  Before transferring into UCLA from Pasadena Junior College, Robinson went to school at Pasadena's Muir High.  

For all those who didn't realize, Robinson lettered in four sports for UCLA: Track & Field, Football, Basketball and, of course, Baseball.  In the following film, he actually plays himself:
 
 
The Jackie Robinson Story - Jewel Pictures - Brought to you by drelbcom

Night folks!


Follow @uclasportsblog, here or on BruinsBall.com for all of tomorrow's Signing Day madness!

UCLA Football: Kenny Walker Commits to the Bruins

Scott Robinson

ESPN's Greg Biggins is reporting CA 2012 target WR Kenny Walker (6'0 / 175) will commit to the Bruins tomorrow on National Signing Day.  Here are some of Walker's highlights:



Kennedy High Eagles #10 Kenny Walker - Courtesy tunemaster15

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UCLA Football: Simon Goines Commits to the Bruins

Scott Robinson

UCLA picked up it's 26th commitment today in Keller, TX OL Simon Goines
(6'8 / 295).  Here is some video of him with Central High School (TX):


Simon Goines #79 Junior Highlights - Courtesy deaconscg



 Simon Goines #79 Highlights - 247sports.com

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UCLA Football: Devin Fuller Commits to the Bruins

Scott Robinson

According to multiple media outlets, UCLA has picked up another gem of a recruit today.  Old Tappan, NJ ATH/QB Devin Fuller (6'0 / 185) committed to the Bruins:



Devin Fuller 2011 Senior Highlights Trailer - www.varsityhighlights.tv

Devin Fuller Full Season Highlights 2010 - www.varsityhighlights.tv

UCLA Football: Devin Fuller Live Feed

Devin Fuller Announcement Feed (Live):



Live broadcasting by Ustream

Position	Name	Meas.	Scout	Rivals	Announcement
QB	Devin Fuller	6’0 / 185	4 *	4 *	5 PM ET 1/29

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UCLA Football: Recruiting Round-up for Signing Day

Image courtesy of UCLA

Scott Robinson

Starting today, the dominoes of the 2012 class will begin to topple. Always stocked full of juicy rumors and supposed "insider information," Signing Day is usually an event of utter chaos. As I write this now, coaches across the country are scrambling for any amount of face-time and last-ditch recruiting pitches are being pulled out as the last stop.

Until a signature’s inked and the paperwork is received February 1st, all recruits are fair game. Now, despite a 6-8 season paired with a new coaching regime, UCLA appears poised to sign another Top-25 class.

Here’s a quick run-down of media sources, the prospects expected to sign and those students who are still in play come this Wednesday's Signing Day:

TV Programming: Specials on ESPN, ESPNU & Fox (Various markets)
Online: foxsportswest.com, foxsportsarizona.com, espnu.com, espn.com, scout.com & rivals.com  
Twitter: @brandonhuffman, @sb_joedavidson, @gregbiggins, @bruinblitzcom, @adamgorney & @jhopkins247

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UCLA Football: Coach Jim L. Mora is Scheming

Image courtesy of 49ers.com

Scott Robinson

Undoubtedly, if you’re a football fan you’ll be glued to the good ole’ tube today as the NFL Playoffs run their course. In what will be a couple classic Offensive vs. Defensive match-ups, the two of the more dominant defensive teams featured in the playoffs will run the same base: a 3-4 scheme. The San Francisco 49ers (3rd Overall Defense) face the New York Giants (8th Overall Offense) while the Baltimore Ravens (4th Overall Defense) will take on the New England Patriots (2nd Overall Offense). New UCLA Football Coach, Jim L. Mora, while busy closing out 2012’s recruiting class, would probably like to catch a minute or two of his old team, the 49ers. With the Bruins jumping on the 3-4 band-wagon, watching the 49ers (or Ravens) could help imbibe the traits required to run such a scheme.

So why will UCLA be rolling out a 3-4 defense now? Combing through their defensive coaching hires, it’s clear 3-4 is the direction UCLA will be headed. Hints start with Lou Spanos, whose previous stints include acting as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ “Defensive Quality Control” coach (1995-2009) as well as linebackers coach for the Washington Redskins (2009-2011). Of course, the Steelers have been known for their defense for some time—Particularly the fashion of 3-4 which has led them to the Super Bowl on numerous occasions. For the Redskins, Spanos instilled the 3-4 in 2010 and developed this year’s league-leading tackler, London Fletcher. Add to that new UCLA Linebackers coach, Jeff Ulbrich (linebacker for the 49ers from 2000-2009 with extensive 3-4 experience). Clearly, Coach Mora believes the 3-4 is the right change of pace to upgrade last year’s struggling defense.

In what would now be “buy” years based on Easterbrook’s cyclical observations, the 3-4 appears to have been around for ages:

Twenty years ago, the 3-4 was the most common NFL defense -- Super Bowl XXV between the Giants and Bills matched two 3-4 defenses. Roughly by the year 2000, NFL offenses had figured out how to counter the 3-4, and defensive coordinators began to rediscover the 4-3. The disruptive, Super Bowl-winning Baltimore and City of Tampa defenses of this phase were conservative 4-3 schemes. Through the middle 2000s, the 4-3 was the "It Girl" defense. Then coaches and quarterbacks got a good handle on the 4-3, and defenses started reverting to the 3-4. Within a few years, the 3-4 will be understood again and teams will switch to the 4-3 as the hot defense.

So, according to Easterbrook, this generation’s crop of quarterbacks (i.e. Joe Flacco and Alex Smith) should be reading up on yesteryear’s Troy Aikman, Jim Kelly and Dan Marino. In order to really comprehend the defense, perhaps a look at successful quarterbacks who have faced the 3-4 might yield a clue or two for its weaknesses.

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UCLA Basketball: De'End Parker Transferring

Image courtesy of San Francisco City College

Scott Robinson

Junior transfer De’End Parker (6’6 / 215) is reportedly transferring back closer to his mom in Northern California. Parker’s mother, Carmen Johnson, underwent heart surgery earlier this past year reports the LA Times. As per UCLA Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Ben Howland: "She needs someone to help take care of her so I’m hoping we can get that worked out.” Parker is expected to transfer to a Bay Area school allowing him to help his mother in her recovery.

Parker, who spent his undergraduate years at San Francisco City College, is not of the best health himself; De’End suffered a knee injury only two games into this season. With any luck, Parker will receive a medical or “adversity” scholarship insuring two full seasons of eligibility remaining.  

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UCLA Football: Room for Improvement

Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images

Scott Robinson

On the eve of the National Title Game between Alabama and LSU, two SEC powerhouses are set to face-off for their second match of the year. Parallel that to Westwood's turmoil and it makes it difficult not to cringe when thinking about the current state of UCLA football. A decade ago, busting out the UCLA sweatshirt or cap was one adorned with confidence. It was, without question, a respected and known program. Whereas today, wearing a Bruin emblem now sparks questions like: “Tough year, eh?” or “I liked Neuheisel, too bad he couldn’t pull it out.” It gets even tougher when running into a Trojan or Duck [I]jack[/I]—et: “At least it wasn’t a blow-out for the PAC-12 Championship.” And now, a new coach is scrambling to return the respectability attached to the trademarks of Westwood.

Numbers Don’t Lie

When looking forward to the inaugural season under Coach Jim L. Mora, there are a few major areas of improvement that can easily be gleaned when comparing UCLA to the truly competitive in college football.

And the 2011 stat sheets sure are incriminating:

[Offensive Categories]

87th in Scoring Offense

37th in Rushing Offense

81st in Passing Offense

72nd in Total Offense

[Defensive Categories]

92nd in Scoring Defense

95th in Rushing Defense

65th in Passing Defense

88th in Total Defense

Of course one stat is entirely avoidable with just a little focus: penalties. UCLA ranked 12th in most penalty yards for the 2011 season; that’s up from 35th in 2010 and 45th in 2009. Not exactly the kind of trajectory a team should be proud of.

Perhaps the most telling indictment against the Bruin program is the average attendance for 2011’s six home games at the Rose Bowl: 56,644. The capacity at the Pasadena venue is 92,542. Across town, Southern California’s Memorial Coliseum averaged 74,806 (with a capacity of 93,607). A half-filled stadium does not seem to be an atmosphere conducive to a top-of-the-line program. Looking to one like Oregon, we see their numbers aren’t particularly shattering. UCLA actually was only behind U of O in attendance by a few thousand patrons per game (at 59,344). However, their capacity is listed as 54,000—meaning some are lucky to stand while watching the Ducks. It must be nice to have a packed house.

It would have been one thing if UCLA was truly dominant in one given category—I don’t know, Rushing. But 72nd in Total Offense and 88th in Total Defense is deplorable. Let’s hope UCLA gets their full Mora’s worth with that $12 Million they coughed up.

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