UCLA’s offensive line must do the talking against Nebraska – Daily News

LOS ANGELES – For the UCLA football team to have success against Nebraska on Saturday, communication will be key.

And while it’s important for the entire team to be on the same page, there may not be a more crucial group than the offensive line when it comes to communication.

The offensive line has shown steady improvement throughout the season and has found its most consistent group of five over the past few games.

Garrett DiGiorgio and Nikki Prongos have started at tackle, Spencer Holstege and Josh Carlin at guard and Sam Yoon has taken over the center position.

“The continuity was great,” Yoon said after training on Wednesday. “Coach (DeShaun) Foster always hammers home the point: ‘Do more, do more.’ So we put a lot of extra work into it. I think that really helps us shine right now.”

The starting five face a huge challenge against Nebraska’s defensive line.

The Cornhuskers rank 11th in the country in total yards allowed per game (302) and fifth in rushing yards allowed per game (92.1).

Nebraska held No. 4 Ohio State to 285 yards, nearly 200 fewer yards than its season average of 472, in last week’s 21-17 loss to the Buckeyes.

Foster said Wednesday that Nebraska’s front likes to mix it up, and reiterated that the Bruins’ offensive line must constantly talk to maintain its blocks.

“You know they’re just identifying and diagnosing and knowing exactly who’s blocking who, so that’s the big communication key,” Foster said. “And if there is talent that does that, that’s something big. They’ve got two really good D-tackles… some experienced linebackers, so the big thing is if we can communicate, we should be good.”

For Yoon, Carlin’s presence on his right side has given the sophomore an advantage, especially in away games.

Carlin, who started at center at the start of the season, still handles most of the calls. He is adept at using a silent count in hostile road environments, like the one UCLA will face in Lincoln.

“He is an incredible resource, especially with the silent count underway,” Yoon said. “We’re talking about a scrimmage. He talks on the phone a lot and having him next to me has been an incredible help for me.”

Because this particular group came together cohesively, quarterback Ethan Garbers was able to set career records for completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns and completion percentage in UCLA’s 35-32 win over Rutgers on October 19.