UCLA Football 2015 Quarterback Fall Practice Preview: Depth Chart and Analysis

Who exactly will start at quarterback for the UCLA Bruins in 2015?

This is the biggest question facing the UCLA football team heading into fall camp in San Bernardino. Someone will have to fill the big pair of shoes left by former signal-caller Brett Hundley. 

Now a member of the Green Bay Packers, Hundley is arguably the most decorated quarterback in the history of the school. The Arizona native broke numerous school records en route to a career record of 28-11. 

One has a hunch as to who will take the reins of the UCLA offense in 2015. This piece will provide a depth chart at the position—as well as some analysis to go with it. 

Starter: Josh Rosen

On Sept. 5 versus Virginia in the Rose Bowl, Rosen looks primed to open the season as the starting quarterback. 

According to Joey Kaufman of the Orange County Register, Rosen "[has] looked capable of meeting those high expectations."

In terms of high expectations, Rosen is regarded as one of, if not the best prep quarterback to enter the collegiate level in 2015. Both Rivals.com and Scout.com had Rosen as a 5-star prospect. 

He performed very well in UCLA's Spring Showcase, as he threw two touchdowns and looked very comfortable slinging the ball down the field. 

This facet makes Rosen a very interesting case. Sure, he doesn't possess nearly the same amount of athleticism or speed that Hundley had. The improvisational aspect of Hundley's game is replicated by very few on this level. 

However, Rosen might be more advanced in terms of keeping his eyes downfield and delivering the football vertically. Of course, this skill will have to translate on a much higher level when compared to high school. With that said, Rosen's savvy and maturity for such a young prospect make this scenario feasible. 

It will be incumbent upon the UCLA offensive line to keep Rosen upright. Hundley was plagued by a lack of protection up front. Frankly, it's astounding the durable Hundley did not suffer a serious injury. 

Fortunately for Rosen, he'll have elite running back Paul Perkins in the backfield to take pressure off of the youngster. 

UCLA also must manage the expectations for the talented signal-caller. NFL.com has Rosen ranked as the No. 1 potential impact freshman in 2015. According to Mark Whicker of the Orange County Register, reputed betting expert and radio host RJ Bell has Rosen as a 45/1 favorite to win the Heisman Trophy. 

No. 2: Jerry Neuheisel

The perfect backup quarterback has intelligence, moxie and a firm comprehension of the offense. 

Tony Gutierrez/Associated Press

These three characteristics aptly describe Jerry Neuheisel. 

The son of former UCLA head coach Rick, the younger Neuheisel offers UCLA stability behind its expected inexperienced signal-caller in Rosen. 

To be fair, Neuheisel isn't terribly experienced in his own right. Over the course of his career in spot duty, the Los Angeles native has completed 37-of-52 passes for 318 yards and three touchdowns. Neuheisel's claim to fame came in 2014, as he filled in for an injured Hundley and led the Bruins to a come-from-behind victory over Texas. 

Neuheisel falls short when it comes to physical limitations. When compared to Rosen, he's smaller, not as mobile and doesn't possess nearly the same arm strength. Regardless, he's a competitor. Neuheisel's charismatic and gregarious personality attracts teammates, making him a natural leader. 

He will continue to compete with Rosen for the starting job up until the beginning of the season in early September. 

No. 3: TBD

UCLA is in a precarious spot when it comes to its quarterback position. 

With the transfer of Asiantii Woulard to South Florida, Neuheisel and Rosen are the only two scholarship quarterbacks on the entire roster. Suffice it to say, the Bruins can ill afford an injury to either of the aforementioned duo. 

The other two signal-callers on the roster come in the form of juniors Mike Fafaul and Jake Hall. If UCLA is in a position in which either plays substantial minutes, the Bruins would be in deep trouble. 

Two interesting cases in this derby include Aaron Sharp and Devin Fuller. While both are currently receivers, each came to UCLA initially with the intention of playing quarterback.

Should a major injury occur to either Rosen and/or Neuheisel, it wouldn't be a shock to see Sharp or Fuller transition back behind center. If anything, each could be a dynamic player with the ball in his hands. 

It goes without saying, but UCLA hopes it doesn't have to entertain any of these scenarios.