UCLA freshman trio look to contribute on defensive line

Last season, UCLA tossed two freshmen defensive linemen into the mix -- Eddie Vanderdoes and Kenny Clark -- and it worked out well.

This season, it could be three.

Defensive end Matt Dickerson, defensive end Jacob Tuioti-Mariner and nose tackle Ainuu Taua are expected to see their share of playing time.

“One of the things with young guys is how they develop in training camp, when they’re in competitive situations,” defensive line coach Angus McClure said. “You can judge if they’re ready to play or not.”

The judging so far:

Dickerson “is really physical and uses his hands really well,” McClure said.

Tuiti-Mariner “has great lateral movement. He can read if the quarterback keeps the ball outside,” McClure said.

Taua “is a great force inside,” McClure said.

McClure has seen the summer work put in with strength and conditioning coach Sal Alosi paying off.

“Now they are picking up all the techniques and schemes,” McClure said.