Pre-Snap Read

Three Things

Who, What, When: U.C.L.A.

By Paul Myerberg   //   Jul 25, 2010

Want a U.C.L.A. player to watch? A theme key to this team’s success? One game to circle in red ink? Let’s take a look.

Who: defensive end Datone Jones

The lone returning starter on the defensive line, Jones must continue to make strides as a junior to help offset the loss of Brian Price and Korey Bosworth, as well as another pair of departed contributors. Jones is capable of taking the next step: he finished third on the team last fall in sacks (three) and fourth in tackles for loss (11). The rest of the line is largely unknown, though projected starting tackle David Carter was an important reserve in 2009. There’s a chance that incoming freshman Owa Odighizuwa could make an immediate impact, but even the arrival of such a highly-touted prospect will not attract attention away from Jones, sure to be the focus of opposing offensive lines.

What: the Pistol offense

It’s a bit surprising to see U.C.L.A. flirt with a Pistol look, largely because of Rick Neuheisel and Norm Chow’s background running the West Coast offense. Now, it would be far more surprising to see the Bruins completely adopt a Nevada-like approach on this side of the ball, putting sophomore Kevin Prince in a role best suited for a player like Colin Kaepernick, more a runner than a passer. In my mind, U.C.L.A. would be best suited continuing its development in a pro-style offense while implementing pieces of the Pistol, particularly if JUCO addition Darius Bell, a dual-threat quarterback, shows an affinity for the system. The Bruins lined up out of the Pistol look exclusively during the spring, so perhaps Neuheisel will throw caution to the wind and implement a brand-new offensive attack in a year key to his future with the program. Seems puzzling.

When: Nov. 18 at Washington

U.C.L.A. is clearly stuck in the deep middle of the Pac-10, which features as many as five teams — maybe six, if I include Oregon State — with very realistic bowl hopes but little chance of unseating both Oregon and U.S.C. from atop the conference. Each of U.C.L.A.’s games against this group will be key. The road date against Washington, however, will be particularly important. For argument’s sake, let’s say the Bruins enter that game at 5-5; with U.S.C. looming, the tilt with the Huskies may decide whether this team reaches bowl play. If U.C.L.A. has already reached six wins — a definite possibility — this game will go far towards dictating the final Pac-10 standings.

Tags: Datone Jones, Owa Odighizuwa, Pistol offense, Rick Neuheisel, U.C.L.A.

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