2014 Schedule Preview: UCLA Bruins

Sep 14, 2013; Lincoln, NE, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers receiver Kenny Bell (80) eludes the tackle by UCLA Bruins defender Anthony Jefferson (23) in the third quarter at Memorial Stadium. UCLA won 41-21. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports

Secondary

The Bruins have an experienced secondary mixed with a little youth in reserve. Starting safeties Anthony Jefferson and Randall Goforth provide the veteran leadership a team vying for a national championship covets. Jefferson had 89 tackles and two interceptions last year. Goforth chipped in with 79 tackles and three picks. Each had seven passes defended. Texas fans know what strong safety play can do for a defense, and both of these players will provide stability at the back of the defense.

Fabian Moreau and Ishmael Adams line up at the corner spots. Moreau has the size (six-foot, 200 pounds) to battle taller, physical receivers. Adams stands just 5-foot-8, but he had four interceptions in 2013. He also registered 10 tackles versus Stanford, so he isn’t afraid to tackle.

The Texas receiving group is a mess right now. True freshmen will see the field this season when in reality some of these players would benefit from a redshirt. Going up against an experienced secondary like UCLA’s will be no easy task. Keep your fingers crossed for a Jaxon Shipley sighting.

UCLA may have a Heisman candidate, but the defense could steal the spotlight in this match up. The defensive line will be a handful for Joe Wickline’s group. Ash may be under pressure on many plays. How he handles the adversity will go a long way in determining the outcome. Strong will learn a lot about his team after this game.