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UCLA Football: 5 things to watch during 2019 spring game

By Connor Muldowney

PASADENA, CA - SEPTEMBER 01: Dorian Thompson-Robinson #7 of the UCLA Bruins hands off to Joshua Kelley #27 during a 26-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bearcats at Rose Bowl on September 1, 2018 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
PASADENA, CA - SEPTEMBER 01: Dorian Thompson-Robinson #7 of the UCLA Bruins hands off to Joshua Kelley #27 during a 26-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bearcats at Rose Bowl on September 1, 2018 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

3. Who will step up as backup running back?

Everyone knows just how good Joshua Kelley is. The senior running back transfer from UC Davis had a breakout season in his first year with the Bruins, rushing for 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns on 5.5 yards per carry. He reminded Bruins fans what an effective runner looks like — they hadn’t seen one in years under Jim Mora.

The Bruins have a clear starting running back who can approach 250 rushes next season and contend for a spot on the All-Pac-12 first-team.

But who will step up behind Kelley?

We will find out if Kazmeir Allen or Martell Irby are ready to take that next step and become the heir apparent to Kelley in the backfield.

Irby was the No. 2 running back last season, finishing with 45 carries for 187 yards and a touchdown, but Allen, a fellow freshman, was more effective on 30 carries, totaling 188 yards and a score. People consider Allen a more explosive runner.

Which back will step up as the clear No. 2 behind Kelley on Saturday?

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