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August 13, 2007
Late practice tidbits
MRIs on FB Michael Pitre's knee and LG Shannon Tevaga's wrist were negative, and UCLA coach Karl Dorrell is hopeful both will be back practicing shortly. X-rays on C Micah Reed's ankle were negative, and he could return shortly.
The afternoon practices of two-a-days is heavy on special teams, and the return game is not sorting itself out. A big piece of the kick return puzzle will be solved with Saturday's scrimmage, Dorrell said. Those leading the way for kick return duties are Michael Norris, Matthew Slater, Khalil Bell and Bret Lockett.
Dorrell said the leading punt return candidates are Alterraun Verner and Terrence Austin.
I spoke with commit Kevan Walker earlier and asked him if coming to UCLA meant his dad would be in Westwood for a while. I'll have his answer later tonight.
Posted by Brian Dohn at August 13, 2007 05:21 PM
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Comments
We need more dynamic and speedy returners than that. With the kickoffs being from the 30 now, the return game could be huge if we get people with speed back there as they will have plenty of time to get going. A lot of teams are using punt returners on kick returns witht he rule changes, why not the Bruins?
Posted by: Ryan at August 13, 2007 05:43 PM
Ryan, i couldn't agree with you more. Bell is needed at the RB position this year with the depth dwindling. Don't risk him getting injured especially when he's not suited to be a KR. I don't understand why Aaron Ware hasn't been put back for kickoff returns let alone switched to RB for the time being. I saw him play the position in H.S, and he was a STUD. He was incredibly quick and whenever he touched the ball you were holding your breath waiting to see what was going to happen. Him and Al Verner should be the two guys on kickoff returns. At least Dorrell has the punt return duties correct with TA and AV.
Posted by: Daniel at August 13, 2007 08:22 PM
what happened to Ryan Graves as a returner?
I guess the coaches are not high on him.
Posted by: Anonymous at August 13, 2007 08:32 PM
Faster than Matthew Slater?, nobody is faster than Matthew Slater. Go look at every punt ST plays last year and Mr. Slater is in FIRST on EVERY tackle. Nobody can keep his pace. It is his time to shine, Go Bruins
Posted by: bruinchamp ![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://www.insidesocal.com/ucla/nav-commenters.gif)
at August 14, 2007 08:05 AM
Thee is a difference between straight sprinting and running with a ball in your hand. I'm not saying slater can't do it but he definitely hasn't proven anything.
Posted by: Daniel at August 14, 2007 12:02 PM
True, but when has he been given a chance.? I have not been able to make it to practice, has he not capitalized on the opportunity?. Either way, the kid can run. It is in his genes. Go Bruins!
Posted by: bruinchamp at August 15, 2007 11:03 AM