UCLA football: Sizing up the Bruins’ depth chart

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UCLA released its depth chart Tuesday, revealing few surprises.

The announcement that Kevin Prince and Richard Brehaut would share the quarterback job left cut-and-dried decisions to other areas on what may be Coach Rick Neuheisel’s deepest team in four seasons.

Dalton Hilliard’s beating out Dietrich Riley at strong safety was the biggest surprise, though both are expected to get extensive playing time.

But Hilliard “was really consistent” during training camp Neuheisel said.

Glenn Love won the strong-side linebacker battle overJordan Zumwalt. The wide receiver rotation is expected to be a crowded group, with Shaquelle Evans, Randall Carroll, Nelson Rosario, Taylor Embree, Ricky Marvray and Josh Smith in the mix.

Taylor Embree is listed as the team’s punt returner, though Evans and Jordon James are getting work in the role.

Neuheisel is still undecided on who will handle field goals and extra points. Jeff Locke has struggled the last two days, while Kip Smith has been marginally better. Locke is the team’s punter and handles the kickoffs. Neuheisel said Locke is capable of doing all three, “but I don’t want to blow the things he does well if it becomes burdensome for him.”

Albert Cid and Chris Ward are both listed as the strong-side guards, with Greg Capella set to start at the weak-side guard.

In other UCLA news:

Long snapper Kevin McDermott, a junior, was awarded a scholarship after practice Tuesday.

“It’s always a fun thing to be able to put someone on scholarship who has earned his spot on this roster,” Neuheisel said.

Jeff Baca was not able to practice because he is not listed on the team’s 105-man roster while recovering from a broken ankle. He will be added to the roster and can start practicing Sunday.

Wide receiver Jerry Johnson will have more tests run on the leg he broke last season.

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-- Chris Foster