UCLA Bruins' Culture Shift Echoes Past Rose Bowl Glory

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Leadership, Fundamentals and Fearless Football Fuel the Bruins

The upcoming 50th anniversary of the Rose Bowl victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes brings back memories of Dick Vermeil and the players who shared that journey, including Dynamite Stevens, Ray Bell and Theodore Nichols.

The current Bruins display many similarities to that team. They appear fearless, find ways to get the job done and have been fun to watch.

UCLA was different under Vermeil and Terry Donahue, and nobody has duplicated what they accomplished. Chesney has brought similar traits to the program as a strong leader capable of taking a team to levels it has not reached before.

True leadership and commitment matter, especially from a coach who emphasizes fundamentals. Football still comes down to blocking and tackling, controlling the line of scrimmage and putting pressure on the opposing quarterback.

A successful program also needs strong quarterback play. UCLA had John Shire, along with running backs such as Wendell Tyler and Eddie Ayers. Although teams will continue to find capable running backs, success begins with the quarterback and control of the line of scrimmage.