Bob Chesney Details His UCLA Recruiting Strategy

Chesney has only coached on the East Coast, with positions at Johns Hopkins, Holy Cross, and James Madison. While he has recruited and delivered results at all those schools, recruiting on the West Coast presents an entirely different challenge, which has raised some concerns among fans.

In his introductory press conference, Chesney addressed those concerns. He noted that, although in today's era of college football, geographic recruiting areas no longer hold the same weight they used to, he still intends to make UCLA the top program for in-state recruits.

• “I think now, obviously, the geographic lines are a little bit skewed at this moment, just because of the way recruiting works this day and age,” Chesney said. "But ultimately, we have to be the premier program in this state. There’s zero doubt about it. I have a much better understanding over the last few months of exactly what it’s going to take."

Chesney went on to say that while he may not have expierence in recruiting West Coast talent, he intends to hire a staff who understands the recruiting area surrounding UCLA and the players in it.

• "I think we’ve got to make sure, as we begin our hiring process, that we make sure there’s people that have deep ties here to the West Coast that certainly understand the players within this environment, understand the areas, and understand the power players within it," Chesney said.

Being able to bring in the elite in-state talent that California has to offer is crucial for UCLA's success as a football program. While Chesney may not be the most well-versed coach in that area, it's clear that he has a plan to ensure the Bruins compete with every school for the best talent in and around Westwood.