Follow our 2018 FloXC Countdown, where FloTrack ranks the top 25 cross country teams and individuals in the NCAA this season which will be LIVE on FloTrack. And, be sure to watch our LIVE FloXC Podium Reveal Show Tuesday, September 11th at 10 AM CT. The No. 16 men’s spot goes to UCLA, and here's why:

Probable Top Five:

SR Robert Brandt (7:58 3K; 13:41 5K; 28:48 10K; 88th at ‘17 NCAA XC)

JR Garrett Reynolds (13:57 5K; 121st at ‘17 NCAA XC; 126th at ‘16 NCAA XC)

JR Colin Burke (13:58 5K; 29:24 10K; 103rd at ‘17 NCAA XC; 141st at ‘16 NCAA XC)

SR Jackson Marshall (14:25 5K; 29:59 10K; 136th at ‘17 NCAA XC)

JR George Gleason (8:13 3K; 14:01 5K; 164th at ‘17 NCAA XC)

Impact Freshmen/Transfers:

N/A

Analysis:

UCLA is well-positioned for a big jump after their 21st place finish at the 2017 NCAA Championships. They return four of the scoring five from that team and five of the top seven. 

Robert Brandt leads the Bruins. The senior was the top finisher in 2017--taking 88th place---and is expected to finish much higher in 2018. He had a strong track season, running a bold race from the front at the West Preliminary 10,000m to qualify for the NCAA Championships. In Eugene, he placed eighth to earn All-American honors. He also lowered his personal best in the 5000m to 13:41.

Behind Brandt, there’s an experienced group that includes Garrett Reynolds, Coin Burke, Jackson Marshall and George Gleason. All of them finished in the 100s in 2017. Some steady improvement from the group will have a big effect on the Bruins’ team score.  

FULL RANKINGS HERE