In the latest BIG 10 power rankings from CBS Sports, the UCLA Bruins took a shot to their ego. Entering their first season in the conference following a head coaching change, the Bruins face the harsh reality of conference realignment.
According to CBS Sports Tom Fornelli, the Bruins rank 16th in the newly super-sized conference, ahead of only Purdue and Indiana. Given the changes to UCLA’s program and the incredibly difficult competition in the BIG 10, it is not so much a surprise but more a reminder of their standing.
Here’s what Fornelli wrote:
History suggests that transitioning to a new league is difficult for most, and while there are questions about each Pac-12 newcomer, UCLA is the one in which I have the least confidence. Chip Kelly left to become Ohio State’s offensive coordinator and Deshaun Foster is a first-time head coach, though one with plenty of familiarity with the UCLA program. This program lost a lot of key personnel — on and off the field — this offseason, and there are too many questions needing answers before ranking the Bruins any higher.
The Bruins’ first season with DeShaun Foster at the helm will be a litmus test.
Where they land in the final ranking after their first season is an unknown, but will shed light on the possible changes and additions the team will need for the future.