UCLA's Harwell excited about new opportunity

UCLA defensive tackle Brigham Harwell not only got a second chance this spring, he got a new position.

Harwell was still giddy from hearing his petition to receive a fifth year of eligibility was approved when he learned he would be moving to nose tackle, replacing senior Kevin Brown.

"I had a feeling when Bear was graduating that I would be moved," said Harwell, a 6-foot-2, 290-pound senior. "It's a big move. You get more double teams and the guards are on you a lot faster."

Harwell was granted a fifth year last month, as he missed most of the season after injuring his left knee against Brigham Young in the Bruins' second game. Once his eligibility was assured, he began by studying tape of USC nose tackle Sedrick Ellis to prepare for the switch.

Brian Price, a talented freshman in 2007, established himself while replacing Harwell, which allowed defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker to make the move.

"I always felt he should have been there all along," Walker said. "Brigham has the strength and the leverage and he has experience. He's our strongest defensive lineman. He'll be able to handle those double teams. He's smart. He knows how to play."

Harwell is just relieved to get one more chance.

"When I got the fifth year, I was the happiest person in the world," Harwell said. "I'm not taking anything for granted. Some players don't get this second chance. I remember that at every practice and every time I'm in the weight room."

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The Bruins received another boost on the defensive line as tackle Chase Moline has been able to return from a neck injury that threatened his career.

Moline played in five games before being sidelined because of two bulging disks that caused migraine headaches.

"I was concerned I wouldn't play again," Moline said. "Every time I would hit people I would get the headaches."

After a series of tests, including an MRI, surgery was ruled out. Moline began to improve after the season and increased his workouts.

"I took it slow, but once the season ended everything kind of calmed down," Moline said. "I started working out again and everything. I have been feeling great ever since."

Moline, a senior, will give the Bruins significant depth on the defensive line, if he remains healthy.

"[Defensive line coach] Todd Howard and I just love him because he makes plays," Walker said. "There is a place for Chase in our defense."