UCLA running back TJ Harden (25) gets a hug from Bruins coach DeShaun Foster during a 2023 game against USC.
(Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
After looking slow and unsteady during spring practices, UCLA’s presumed top running back has displayed more of his usual burst during the first two weeks of fall camp.
Part of his progression, Foster said, can be attributed to dropping some weight, and another part to learning new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy’s playbook.
“He looks more explosive because he knows the plays a little bit more, you know what I mean?” Foster said. “When you’re thinking and going, it’s kind of different and kind of hard. So, I think he’s a little bit more comfortable with the offense.”
Keegan Jones, who appeared to be pushing Harden for the starting role in the spring, also made several nice plays. Anthony Frias II, a transfer from Kansas State, did not make much of an impression in his limited carries. The Bruins are still waiting for Jalen Berger, a transfer from Michigan State, to work his way into shape before making his debut in team periods.