Transfer Turnaround: Zach Charbonnet

Zach Charbonnet transferred from Michigan to UCLA this off-season hoping a change would get his career on track. Charbonnet was a highly touted recruit in the 2019 class but struggled to find consistent success at Michigan. After two weeks it appears the move to UCLA was exactly what Charbonnet needed.

Charbonnet had a solid freshman season at Michigan, rushing for 726 yards at 4.9 yards per carry and it looked like he could grow into a big time running back for the Wolverines. In 2020, he actually averaged 6.5 yards per carry, but only received 19 carries over five games and decided Michigan was no longer a good fit for him. Charbonnet transferred to UCLA, where Chip Kelly’s offense has been perfect for the California native.

Charbonnet opened the season with an explosive performance against Hawaii. He carried the ball just six times but gained 106 yards and scored 3 touchdowns and added a catch for 14 yards, proving to be unstoppable. UCLA won easily and there was some question if he could repeat that success against a better opponent. That opportunity came in the team’s second game against LSU.

Charbonnet did not disappoint in the 38 -27 win against LSU. The 6’1″ 220 lb back ran with power, bouncing off tacklers and making yardage after contact on a regular basis. His power was on display, but so was his acceleration and speed. Charbonnet made long runs, showing the ability to speed through the defense and make big plays. He finished the game with 117 rushing yards and a touchdown on 11 carries plus 1 catch for 35 receiving yards. With back to back 100 yard performances, Charbonnet will continue to earn more touches and make the transfer to UCLA a huge success.

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