Gene Settles

Who is Gene Settles?

Spencer "Gene" Settles was a defensive linebacker for the UCLA Bruins during the 1971 - 1974 seasons. In 1974 he was the recipient of the UCLA Bruins' Henry R. Sanders trophy for Most Valuable Player.

Upon graduation in 1970 from B.C. Elmore High School in Houston, Texas, Gene was recruited by Notre Dame, Stanford University, University of Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma University, University of Nebraska, the University of California at Los Angeles, and others. He began his freshman year as a starting defensive linebacker with the UCLA Bruins in 1971 under the direction of coach Franklin Cullen Pepper Rodgers.

According the UCLA 1972 "The Spirit Of College Football" publication, as a pre-law major sophomore, he was "rated a fine prospect and figures to back up Tom Daniels at RLB. He's tough and has a good speed, but obviously needs varsity game experience. Lettered in football under coach Wendell Mosley at B.C. Elmore High School in Houston, Texas. He won All-District honors at linebacker and also saw action at fullback." He is listed on the 1971 UCLA Alphabetical Roster as being jersey #59, 6'2", 226 pounds, and 19 years old.

In 1973, Gene was a junior majoring in Political Science. The "1973 UCLA Football News Media Guide" states this about Gene Settles: "Started in 5 games a linebacker last year and is tabbed to be starter at LLB this fall. He tied with James Bright as the team's most prolific tackler last year with 79. Had an excellent Spring practice and showed good leadership qualities. A solid all-around player, he continues to show steady improvement. Was a starting linebacker on 1971 Frosh team."