UCLA Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017

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BOULDER, CO – NOVEMBER 3: Running back Soso Jamabo #9 of the UCLA Bruins rushes against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field on November 3, 2016 in Boulder, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /

Running Back

Starting running back: Soso Jamabo
Backup: Nate Starks

There’s far too much talent in this unit for it to be as mediocre as it was last season. Neither Jamabo, Starks, or junior Bolu Olorunfunmi averaged over four yards per carry or totaled over 321 rushing yards in 2016. Is that the backs’ fault, or the offensive line? Most likely a bit of both, but the hope is that more experience in the latter group will allow the backfield to thrive.

Among the bunch that returns, Jamabo is the most intriguing option. The blue-chipper led the trio in both rushing yards and yards per carry, and he appears to have the inside track on the starting job. While the Bruins will be hoping that he can handle the lion’s share of the carries, Starks and Olorunfunmi with both see plenty of snaps as well. Starks, a senior, led the team in carries last season and will likely be second in line for touches in 2017.

There’s plenty of potential here. Whether or not that potential turns into production will play a huge part in determining whether or not UCLA has a successful season.

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