Pac-12 Football 2016: Season preview and predictions

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November 22, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans running back Javorius Allen (37) is brought down by UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Eddie Vanderdoes (47) during the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensive Player of the Year

Perhaps, the most explosive player in the Pac-12, Eddie Vanderdoes is back and ready to bring the pain for UCLA. He was expected to help lead the Bruins to a Pac-12 South crown last year and he may have had he not gotten hurt. He tore his ACL in the first week of the season and that left the Bruins’ defense void in stopping the run game.

The good news is that Vanderdoes is back this year and he’s got a major chip on his shoulder. With him back at the helm, the Bruins’ defense is poised to be something special and show that they are for real. It’s hard for a team to pick up the pieces when their defensive leader goes down and they really missed Vanderdoes last season.

Vanderdoes is one of the most passionate players in college football and has the potential to earn some awards at the defensive tackle position. It’s so important for a good defense to be stout at the point of attack and that’s exactly what he brings to the Bruins each and every week.

Teams won’t be able to run it with ease anymore against UCLA. He’s the real deal and he’s going to be the Defensive Player of the Year in the Pac-12.

Next: Coach of the Year