UCLA RB Carson Steele continues to see an increased workload – Press Enterprise

LOS ANGELES — Running back Carson Steele has settled into his role within No. 25 UCLA’s offense as his workload has increased in recent weeks and he’s become acclimated to the Pac-12’s level of play.

Both Steele and sophomore TJ Harden shared nearly an equal amount of carries out of the backfield through the first four games but there’s been a shift in production after games against Washington State and Oregon State.

Kelly has mentioned that there is never a set number of carries determined for the running backs throughout the week and it’s a matter of “how the game expresses itself.”

Steele, a Ball State transfer, had 52 total carries for 251 total rushing yards in the last two weeks for UCLA (4-2 overall, 1-2 Pac-12), compared to Harden’s 20 carries for 73 yards.

“That kid is a beast,” Coach Chip Kelly said of Steele after the Utah game. “ … He’s a downhill, physical football player.”

Even with the increased workload, Steele has remained true to his team-first approach and felt there’s still more he and the other running backs could’ve done with pass protection to help an offense that’s been struggling.

“It’s a hard thing because it’s a team sport,” Steele said. “After watching the film, there were some things we could’ve done better. There was a little inconsistency all over the field. It was a very winnable game and it really hurts us.”

The Bruins’ backfield will have the opportunity to show signs of improvement against Stanford, whose rush defense ranks 66th in the country. The Cardinal have allowed 4.61 yards per carry and 138.7 yards per game.

“It’s been a little different playing (against Pac-12 teams),” Steele said. “I feel like the coaching has really been helping and just being able to get comfortable with myself. 

“I was all over the place at first, just learning the plays and getting developed into this style of running.”

INJURY REPORT 

Ale Kaho participated in drills led by inside linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. on Monday. 

Kaho has missed the last five games after he sustained an injury during the season opener against Coastal Carolina. He was spotted in a walking boot on his right foot in recent weeks. 

It’s not the first time an injury has cost Kaho significant time on the field. He missed all of the 2022 season due to an undisclosed injury.

Safety Kenny Churchwell III also participated in practice after he missed Saturday’s game against the Beavers. Churchwell was seen being attended to by medical personnel during the Washington State game on Oct. 7 and needed assistance walking off the field.

Quarterback Collin Schlee was not seen during the media viewing period at practice. Schlee suffered an injury during the Oregon State game Saturday that led to him leaving the game early.

Kelly said the Kent State transfer was “unavailable” but wouldn’t provide specifics about the injury or a timetable for his return.