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What began as a transition year ended with the understanding that UCLA needed its football program rebuilt. Second-year coach Karl Dorrell is the man charged with restoring order following a tumultuous 6-7 season that ended with five straight defeats.

UCLA returns eight starters on offense, but that may not be a good thing since the Bruins ranked 110th in the nation in total offense (294.9) and 100th in scoring (19.1). However, the experience of a difficult season should help the Bruins, as should the hiring of offensive coordinator and offensive line coach Tom Cable. The former Idaho head coach will oversee the most scrutinized unit of a disappointing offense, as well as call the plays.

Defensively, UCLA lost six starters and was hit hard by the graduation of six defensive linemen and cornerback Matt Ware's decision to leave for the NFL.

The UCLA name may be the best thing going these days as Dorrell tries to rebuild a program that apparently hasn't worked very hard in the offseason lately. When he arrived a year ago, three out of more than 100 players could bench press 400 pounds. That number was up to 13 by the start of spring practice.

"We weren't a very strong team last year, nor very fast," Dorrell said. "I think those areas have improved quite a bit.''

Olson went 5-4 as a starter in 2003 but couldn't move the offense consistently. With Matt Moore no longer around -- he transferred following the season -- Olson won't have to look over his shoulder after every poor decision or badly thrown ball. Olson has one proven target in Craig Bragg, but the Bruins need someone to step up and replace academic casualty Tab Perry. UCLA would like to get 6'6" tight end Marcedes Lewis more involved in the offense.

The offensive line isn't deep -- only nine scholarship linemen took part in spring ball -- and was one of the weakest components of last year's anemic offense. However, the unit returns all five starters and should be aided by the arrival of Cable.

Bruising back Manuel White needs to stay healthy for the running game to be successful. Tyler Ebell transferred to UTEP, so White will likely team with speedy but powerful Maurice Drew for what should be a productive tandem in the backfield.

Jarrad Page and Ben Emanuel return at safeties, with Matt Clark on one corner. But opposing teams will likely pick on Ware's successor.

Finding a replacement for high-energy linebacker Brandon Chillar is also a must, but with Justin London and Spencer Havner back, this group should be solid.

Don't expect UCLA to be contending for the Pac-10 title in November, but the Bruins should be an improved club. This team is eager to erase the memories of a season-ending five-game losing streak that was capped off by a dreadful showing in the Silicon Valley Classic.

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