Can The UCLA Bruins Reworked Offensive Line Hold Up Against Hawaii?

Perhaps one of the biggest jobs for the UCLA Bruins this season was elevating the play of the offensive line. Last season, they allowed 42 sacks in 2023, ranking 113 out of 130 major college football teams. When DeShaun Foster took over as head coach, he added long-time NFL coach Juan Castillo to help address the issues.

Has the UCLA Bruins’ Offensive Line Improved Enough?

Despite returning three starters, the unit looks quite different due to positional shifts and transfers. Josh Carlin has transitioned from guard to center, while Spencer Holstege and Alani Makihele, a transfer from Las Vegas, have joined the starting lineup. Additionally, Reuben Unije, a transfer from Houston, will take over at left tackle, playing opposite Garrett DiGiorgio, who has added weight to his frame in anticipation of the Bruins’ conference switch.

DiGiorgio is the de facto leader and tone-setter of the UCLA Bruins offensive line group.

“Last year’s in the past,” DiGiorgio said. “Our main focus is to not let anybody touch Ethan this year. Even if that’s, like, in the run game or whatever he’s doing, we want to protect Ethan. That’s our No. 1 goal.”

DiGiorgio was one of the UCLA Bruins worst offenders when it came to allowing quarterback pressures. His 32 was second, but nearly double that of Holstege. Josh Carlin allowed just 10.

New additions, Makihele and Unije allowed 6 and 31 respectively.

Their first test comes against a team that posted an incredible 30 pressures and five sacks last week. Jackie Johnson III led the way for the Rainbow Warriors with seven pressures and one sack. He also forced a fumble in that game. 2024 is Johnson’s first year as a starter for Hawaii.

All together 15 players were able to get pressure on Delaware State’s quarterback and three players had three pressures in the game.

More must-reads:

• UCLA Bruins vs. Hawaii: 2 Top Performers and 1 Storyline to Follow
• UCLA Bruins Defense Braces for Tough Challenge Against Hawaii