The Bruin Poised for the Biggest Impact Down the Stretch

Anthony Frias II has emerged as a player who could make a massive impact to finish the season

Oct 11, 2025; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Anthony Frias II (22) rushes the ball against Michigan State linebacker Wayne Matthews (10) and defensive back Armorion Smith (19) in the third quarter at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Mullin-Imagn Images | Brendan Mullin-Imagn Images

The Bruins have won three out of their last four, hoping to make a Bowl Game this season. With a season marked by adversity, the team's very presence in a position to play in the postseason is something special.

After the blowout loss to Indiana, the offense is back to the drawing board. The team has changed who gets the majority of touches in the backfield; however, there is still a player who hasn't gotten the green light.

Many players have had notable performances during this stretch; however, one has slipped under the radar as a potential star for the Bruins: Anthony Frias II

Michigan State's Jordan Hall, left, tackles UCLA's Anthony Frias II during the third quarter on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. | Nick King/Lansing State Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Frias II began his college career at Kansas State University, where he received minimal touches. During this time, he recorded 14 carries for 44 yards over two years. Looking for a fresh start, he transferred to UCLA.

In his first season with the Bruins, Frias II would record 15 carries for 47 yards. Not the start he wanted with the blue and gold. However, this season he has made himself one of the Bruins' most explosive running backs. His efforts were essential in the 20-19 win over Maryland.

So far this season, Frias II has recorded 17 carries for 165 yards and a touchdown. He is doing all of this on 9.7 yards per carry. Moving forward, there is no doubt that Jerry Neuheisel needs to involve Frias II more moving forward.

Nov 30, 2024; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins head coach DeShaun Foster greets UCLA Bruins running back Anthony Frias II (29) as he returns to the bench during the third quarter against the Fresno State Bulldogs at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images | Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

Frias II has led the Bruins in rushing in back to back games. This is also a Bruins team that has become more run-heavy since releasing DeShaun Foster earlier in the season. Frias II is also doing this with very few carries, highlighting his explosiveness.

Mentioned previously, he had a huge game against Maryland that helped the Bruins pull off a nail-biter win. During the game, he rushed the ball only four times for 97 yards and a touchdown. He was able to break off two 35+ yard runs during the game, which were key in the win.

Oct 11, 2025; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; UCLA Bruins unning back Anthony Frias II (22) catches a pass during warmups before a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Mullin-Imagn Images | Brendan Mullin-Imagn Images

Moving forward, the senior back should see an increase in carries; it's just a matter of time before he really starts to break out. His efforts will be significant in the Bruins' hopes for a Bowl Game.

Ensure you follow on X (Twitter) @UCLAInsideronSI and @cmorenoNBA to keep up with every story surrounding UCLA athletics!

Please let us know your thoughts on this when you like our Facebook page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.