London Says He Hopes to Be Big Hit Maker

After four days of fall camp, UCLA will practice in full pads for the first time today, and linebacker Justin London could not be happier.

As the Bruins’ leading returning tackler, London prides himself on making big hits and expects to deliver plenty of them this season in UCLA’s more aggressive defensive schemes.

“This is my junior year, and I definitely think this is going to be a breakout year for me,” said London, who had 98 tackles, including 8 1/2 stops for losses. “My friends and I have been waiting for this time to be college juniors and now it’s finally here.”

At 6 feet 1 and 235 pounds, London has enough size and speed to be an every-down player for the Bruins. London’s ability to not only stop the run but also get into pass coverage will play an important role in the new wrinkles added to UCLA’s defense.

“Playing in the Pac [10 Conference], you have to be able to play out in space and cover the pass,” London said. “That’s something that I can do, and that’s also something that you have to do if you want to play at a higher level where offenses throw the ball a lot more.”

With London and fellow juniors Spencer Havner and Wesley Walker, UCLA has three of the quickest linebackers in the conference. They will be counted on to make plays while the Bruins’ young and inexperienced defensive line develops.

“Our D-line is a lot better than people give them credit for,” London said. “We have guys that can move. They are very athletic and quick. But what I really like about them is that they are very smart. As a unit, they are picking up things really fast, and that’s helping us add in more things in our defense.”

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Freshman Tony Lee, a former standout at Serra High in Gardena, moved to the interior offensive line Saturday after spending the three days of practice at tight end.... With sophomore Maurice Drew sidelined because of a mild groin injury, freshman running back Chris Markey has been impressive with his quickness and hard running style. Coach Karl Dorrell said that he has been pleased with all of his running backs, including Drew, senior Manuel White, junior Jason Harrison and redshirt freshman Derrick Williams.... Tight end Marcedes Lewis, who suffered a minor hamstring injury Friday, practiced Saturday, but freshman wide receiver Marcus Everett did not because of headaches from a hit he suffered Friday.