A Report From The UCLA Football Fall Scrimmage

This past Saturday I was at UCLA for the Bruins' annual fall football scrimmage, as they continue to prepare for the upcoming season.

After watching the Bruins, I can definitely say that progress is being made.

The first team offense could have done better. Standout defensive tackle Brian Price was constantly in the backfield causing havoc, and new quarterback Kevin Prince completed only 2-of-5 passes, with an interception by Rahim Moore that he ran back for a touchdown.

On the plus side for Prince, he did show a strong arm. The Bruins will be able to throw downfield this year, unlike last season.

UCLA did show some highlights; the biggest one was when running back Jonathan Franklin broke through the defensive line and ran 61 yards for a touchdown, showing something that the Bruins will desperately need if they are going to improve on a 4-8 showing.

There was also a punt return for a touchdown, as well as a 94 yard kick return.
Preseason all-conference kicker Kai Forbath was rested, but Jeff Locke, who is slated to take over from Aaron Perez as the Bruins' new punter, kicked three field goals during the scrimmage, including a 52 yarder.

Though it was evident that there is still work to be done, it was generally agreed that improvement was made over last year's scrimmage performance. Progress was, and is, definitely being shown.

The question remains, however: Will this progress translate into wins for UCLA?

Though that honestly remains to be seen, I think that it will. As long as the offense and the offensive line continue to improve, and no one gets hurt.