UCLA football: Bruins face Virginia Tech’s formidable defensive front

UCLA faces a Virginia Tech defense in the Hyundai Sun Bowl that is weakened by injuries.

The Hokies will be without cornerback Kyle Fuller, who had surgery for a core muscle injury. Cornerback Antone Exum is doubtful because of an ankle injury.

That leaves freshmen Kendall Fuller and Brandon Facyson as starters. They aren’t the type you can pick on. Fuller has a team-high six interceptions.

They benefit from what the Hokies have up front.

“A lot of what they’re able to do in the secondary is a product of their pass rush,” UCLA Coach Jim Mora said. “Those guys play hard, they’re reckless and they create problems for you.”

Virginia Tech ranks fifth nationally in sacks, averaging 3.1 per game. The Hokies are also third in passing yards allowed third and passing efficiency defense.

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