UCLA football: Running backs James, Manfro will do majority of work

So much for “running back by committee.” A quartet has been reduced to a duet.

As UCLA’s season-opening game against Nevada creeps closer, the Bruins’ backfield is getting trimmed down. Jordon James and Steven Manfro will get the majority of the work against the Wolf Pack on Saturday.

“Jordon is our starter right now and Steven is our backup guy,” Coach Jim Mora said. “Those are the two guys we’re going to ride most often.”

Paul Perkins and Malcolm Jones will “have roles” Mora said, but “the majority of the reps will come from two guys.”

The Bruins have to replace running back Johnathan Franklin, who is now with the Green Bay Packers. Franklin set a single-season school record with 1,734 yards rushing last fall.

Damian Thigpen, who is recovering from knee surgery, will probably be a factor later this season. Thigpen was in a red no-contact jersey Wednesday, seemingly a small step forward.

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