UCLA quarterback Brett Hundley was sharp on the first offensive possession of the spring game Saturday, and that was apparently enough for the returning starter. After completing four of five attempts for 30 yards, Hundley’s spring came to a close as head coach Jim Mora chose to rest his starter and allow more snaps for back-up options.
Jerry Neuheisel, son of former Bruins coach and current Pac-12 Network analyst Rick Neuheisel, was the game’s leading passer with 180 yards but was intercepted twice. Mike Fafaul completed seven of 16 attempts for 116 yards, Asiantii Woulard completed four of 13 attempts for 42 yards, and Mike Hall accounted for eight yards on his lone completion on two attempts. Saturday’s game showed UCLA has a legitimate concern if Hundley has to miss any playing time in the fall, but the Bruins may be able to survive a short absence if needed. Hundley is a key ingredient for the Bruins in 2014, and he could work his way into the Heisman Trophy conversation with a successful Pac-12 championship run.
The good news is UCLA will have receivers no matter who the quarterback is. Jordan Payton was the game’s leading receiver with 96 yards and Devin Lucien added 76 yards on five receptions. Two key receivers for UCLA did not play Saturday due to injury, but Devin Fuller and Thomas Duarte are expected back for the fall.
The Bruins should be fine on defense as well despite losing Anthony Barr. UCLA’s defense racked up eight sacks in the spring scrimmage, and last year’s young breakout star, Myles Jack, is focusing on defense.
UCLA has played in two of the three Pac-12 championship games since the conference expanded. After missing out on the championship game last season, the Bruins look to have a team capable of getting back there in 2014 in what could be a wide-open Pac-12 South. UCLA opens the 2014 season August 30 at Virginia.