In a season where the UCLA Bruins have struggled offensively, their running backs, particularly TJ Harden, have stepped up in the passing game, offering a consistent outlet for quarterback Ethan Garbers. Through six games, Harden has posted 204 receiving yards to go along with his 166 rushing yards, demonstrating that UCLA’s offensive line hasn’t been able to throw blocks for him.
Harden’s biggest contributions have come in the form of screens, a key feature of UCLA’s offense this season. The Bruins have struggled to generate downfield plays behind an inconsistent offensive line, forcing Garbers to rely on quick, short passes to players like Harden. His 32-yard screen pass against Minnesota sparked the home crowd, and his role has continued to grow as the team leans on him more to create opportunities in the passing game.
Keegan Jones has impressed in the screen game as well, as the run game has been horrible for the Bruins, they’ve tried to get the ball in the RB’s hands somehow. It’s pretty telling how the offense has been running in general because Harden is the team’s receiving leader.
When asked about the running back involvement in the passing game, Garbers highlighted the importance of getting Harden involved more. “We need to get the ball in TJ’s hands in a way that allows him to make a play,” Garbers said after the Minnesota game. Harden has proven to be a reliable option, particularly when UCLA faces heavy defensive pressure.
UCLA Bruins diminishing run game
UCLA’s run game this season has been dismal, setting the wrong kind of records for a football team. Their yards per game went from 198 to 60, the biggest decline in the entire FBS. This stems from the scheme as well as a lack of good offensive line play. Even if the Bruins have the personnel to do well, the offensive scheme isn’t helping, as a lot of routes in the offense take time to develop, not leaving enough time for the QB. Play action is prevalent as well, and it only works when you run the ball, which isn’t an option
Harden’s Consistency as a Safety Valve
Harden’s increased role as a receiver reflects the Bruins’ need for a quick and reliable option to counter aggressive defenses. His 147 receiving yards put him among the team’s top pass-catchers, and his ability to gain extra yards after the catch makes him a safe option for Garbers when plays break down.
Looking back over the last three games, Harden’s impact has grown. In the first two games of the season, UCLA struggled to establish Harden as a consistent target, with the running back posting minimal receiving yardage (41, 21). However, over the last few games, his role in the passing game has expanded (59, 57), leading to helping UCLA sustain drives when deep throws weren’t an option.
With the offensive line struggling to protect Garbers in passing situations, Harden’s involvement as a pass-catcher has become increasingly vital. As the season progresses, expect more plays designed to get the ball into Harden’s hands, especially in screen scenarios, where his speed and vision can break open big plays.
As UCLA looks to turn its season around, the running backs’ involvement in the passing game will remain a critical component of their offense.
