2014 Schedule Preview: UCLA Bruins

Nov 15, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; Washington Huskies running back Bishop Sankey (25) is tackled by UCLA Bruins linebacker Eric Kendricks (6) during the game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Linebackers

UCLA must replace Anthony Barr and Jordan Zumwalt, who have moved on to the NFL. The pair teamed up to provide the Bruins with a formidable linebacking corp. The question now is who replaces these guys?

Eric Kendricks will get his chance to shine. Kendricks was tough against the run, but struggled in coverage. Myles Jack made a name for himself last season, mostly for playing on both sides of the ball. This season he will stick to defense and help shore up the outside linebacker position. He isn’t projected to be much of a pass rush threat, so UCLA may move him around to take advantage of the talent on the defensive line. Either way, the sophomore should have more of an impact on the defensive side of the ball than he did in 2013.

The other two linebacker positions (UCLA plays a 3-4) are up for grabs. These made be sorted out by the Texas game, or defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich could still be tinkering with the lineup. Either way, it doesn’t look like UCLA will miss a beat at linebacker.