It’s a new year for Bob Chesney and Colin Hitschler but the two coaches remain together, with Hitschler following Chesney from James Madison to California to join the UCLA Bruins. While it’s a new roster, conference and program, there’s a few things that remain the same.
One of those things being Trent Hendrick, who joined UCLA over the weekend. Hendrick won the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year award under Hitschler last year and more success could be headed their way in 2026.
Hitschler spoke to the media on Tuesday after practice and talked about the new addition at linebacker.
“We had a lot of fun together last year and I think he did a great job where he was. I’m glad he got the opportunity for himself to hopefully continue to play college football here,” Hitschler said. “What a special opportunity for him. Let’s make the most of it.”
One of the main things to watch for UCLA football this season is how Hitschler’s defense will fare in the Big Ten. UCLA allowed the fourth-most yards per game last season in the Big Ten and had the worst scoring defense in the conference, allowing 33.4 points per game.
The Bruins added talent to every level of their defense, adding the Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the Year, Sahir West, the Sun Belt’s DPOY in Hendrick and safeties Tao Johnson and Malik Hartford to their secondary.
“We’re ready to go. Just keep staying focused on Cal, what’s coming up,” Hitschler said. “One day at a time. Just keep getting better. Keep improving. I think we’re in a good spot.”
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: UCLA DC Colin Hitschler is happy to reunite with LB Trent Hendrick
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