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UCLA Football: 3 storylines to follow in spring 2022

By Connor Muldowney

Sep 4, 2021; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson (1) throws against the Louisiana State Tigers during the first half the at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 4, 2021; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson (1) throws against the Louisiana State Tigers during the first half the at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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UCLA football is fresh off its best season in the Chip Kelly era and now it’s time to build off that. What should we watch for this spring?

Chip Kelly finally broke through with UCLA football in 2021 and after going 8-4, there’s a feeling that the program is back and trending in the right direction.

After about four years, UCLA is finally looking like the team everyone expected Kelly to make it.

The Bruins begin spring ball with some roster turnover and even a notable coaching change as defensive coordinator Jerry Azzinaro stepped down following the season.

What storylines should we be keeping an eye on this spring for UCLA?

3. Potential defensive improvement under Bill McGovern

Jerry Azzinaro resigned as defensive coordinator following the season after the Bruins allowed 388 yards and 26.8 (No. 73 in the nation) points per game. It wasn’t a great showing for the defense and Azzinaro stepped down to make way for Bill McGovern.

McGovern doesn’t have a ton of experience at the collegiate level over the past decade but he does have 40 years of coaching experience overall under his belt. Over the past decade, he’s spent time in the NFL with the Eagles, Giants, and Bears with a quick stint in Nebraska mixed in.

The last time he was a defensive coordinator at the collegiate level was from 2009-12 with Boston College and he’s a solid addition to the staff.

Will we see immediate defensive improvement with McGovern now in charge? Usually you can tell if there’s new juice in spring ball and maybe this breath of fresh air will be obvious right away.

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