This was supposed to be the year UCLA stepped up to the head of the football class.

After their 37-29 loss to Nebraska last Saturday in the Foster Farms Bowl in Santa Clara, the 8-5 Bruins are stuck in the middle of the line.

Losing to Nebraska is not the problem. That merely exposed their lack of depth on defense. After suffering a wave of injuries to key defensive players at the beginning of the season, UCLA lost five of their last nine.

In the two most recent defeats, the Bruins surrendered a combined 77 points, 40 to USC, 37 to Nebraska.

Quarterback was the largest question mark coming into the season.

Could they effectively replace Bret Hundley, one of the best quarterbacks in UCLA history? Freshman Josh Rosen blossomed into a premier quarterback.

From the moment Rosen stepped onto the Rose Bowl turf against Virginia on Sept. 5, his pinpoint passes reminded fans of Troy Aikman. Rosen ended the season with 3,740 yards passing, 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. As long as Rosen stays in Westwood, the Bruins will have a good offense.

The issue for next year will be upgrading .the defense. Bigger lineman are needed. Bigger, faster, stronger linebackers. More physical backs will be sought.

The Bruins are seeking game breakers on their return teams. Further, a solid replacement is needed for kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn.

If they succeed, next season should be better than 8-5.