Bob Chesney’s Transfer Portal Overhaul Fuels UCLA Defensive Revival
UCLA’s defense struggled mightily in the previous season, ranking near the bottom of the Pac‑12 in both pass rush and run stopping. The Bruins allowed opponents to exploit gaps in the interior, a problem that forced head coach Bob Chesney to seek a rapid remedy. Enter Darold DeNgohe, a defensive tackle who arrived in Westwood after stints at Rutgers and James Madison University. After a season‑ending injury at Rutgers, DeNgohe is fully healthy and poised to contribute immediately. DeNgohe’s reputation rests on his ability to clog running lanes and generate pressure on the quarterback. At James Madison he recorded 28 total tackles, including six for loss, showcasing the blend of size and technique that Chesney values. The coaching staff supplemented the interior with several other James Madison alumni, a move that reflects a targeted strategy to rebuild the line from within. The influx of experienced players is expected to restore balance to a unit that has been inconsistent over the past year. If the new pieces click, UCLA could see a turnaround in its defensive statistics, giving the offense more breathing room and potentially reshaping the team’s overall competitiveness in the conference.