Hey Brian, i was wondering how Chris Forcier has been looking on the scout team, see any potential for him to compete for the starting job next year? Also, what about Nate Chandler's chances.

Brian,

How much of an upgrade do you think Milton Knox and Aundre Dean will be at the tailback position next year, see any starting potential for them?

How is Raymond Carter recovering? And a quick BB question. How do you predict our starting five will look?
Thanks Again!

How do you feel about the OL candidates already in the program? It seems we have recruited a lot of sleepers with "potential", but we don't have a lot of sure-fire types. I am not particularly thrilled with the OL commitments we have for the 2008 class either. It seems that we skimp on quality at this position, do you agree?

Brian,

First of all, thank you very much for this blog.

My question is about the viability of the WCO in college football. There are a lot of opinions out there about why the WCO isn't a good fit fot the college game.

Have you ever talked to Coach Dorrell or Coach Norvell about the WCO? Do you know why they think they can be successful with the WCO?

Thanks again,
Dave

It seems Terence Austin is too small and weak to return punts and B. Brazell continues to show he is an explosive playmaker have the coaches given any thought to letting Brazzell return punts?

The defense finally played the way I envisioned them playing against OSU, do you think that they can keep this up the rest of the season?

Are the coaches upset with Markey this year. With the exception of the Washington game he has not ran hard. He looks slow and soft. Do you think that the extra weight and muscle he put on in the offseason was a bad move for a RB who already lacked speed?

What are the chances we see Chane Moline this week or season. How is his hand? In his 5 or so carries this year he has looked real good. I think a Bell/Moline combination could beat up Pac-10 defenses with there physical running style. I actually think that combo is better than Bell/Markey. What do you think? Do you think the coaches are to loyal to stick with Markey? Is it possible they are willing to rotate 3 running backs?

Brian,

I have always felt that you have treated UCLA and all its players and staff with respect. However, last week, from your writing, I sensed some frustration/anger towards the football program. Was I reading too much into your comments?

I have a basic question that's not specifically related to UCLA football. Why do football players put the black stripes under their eyes? Is it to reduce sun glare? I see players put them on in night games too.

I'm hearing good things regarding Darrell Scott becoming a Bruin, what have you heard and who do you think will be the Final 3 for him? Also, what about H. Stevens? I know a while back you said you thought he would ultimately be a Bruin...again, so how about now? Finally,how many starts before we stop saying "It is only Ben Olson's 10th/11th/12th start so give it time"?Thanks man!!

Two questions, Brian. First what exactly do you mean when you say Pac-10 teams don't travel well. Second, I'm really confused about what you said about Trey Brown's assignment. If he is our best corner, why wouldn't it be prudent to always put your best corner on their best reciever? I don't get it.

Brian,

Do you think KD has began to close the gap in talent between USC and the other power houses in the country (assuming last years class is productive and this years class remains current)?

Which seniors do you think will be drafted in the NFL this Spring? Also, is there any other BCS team with as many walk-ons in their 2 deep as UCLA? I find that troubling and unacceptable. Lastly,do you think UCLA has a chance to beat Cal and what IS there best chance to win, i.e. strategy, in your opinion?

Why would a top receiver want to play at UCLA? It seems that the route running in the Dorrell's WCO is very limiting, meaning that you can't freelance and use your athleticism to get open. It seems that opposing defensive backs awlays know where you're trying to go.

What's the latest on Hollis Thompson? Word is he's leaning to becoming a Dookie. I really hope we get this guy. Also, what came about Jamison's recent visit. Any good signs?

It seems like we always bug you with asking you what the latest is on the recruiting trail, but here we go again....what's the latest news? I know we're waiting on giving out offers, but who is leaning towards committing? What's the latest with Hamani, DScott, Mobley and Noble? Noble recently made Washington a solid committment, but do we still have a chance? Finally, how are the 2008 recruits doing in this HS year of football?

Why is the Holiday Bowl played on Dec. 27? Generally, the earlier the bowl game, the less prestigious it is. Has there ever been any talk of moving the game to Jan 1?

Brian,

I've read comments from our OL coach that he wants to get the best guys on the field. Do you think next year we'll see Lanis and Kia playing at the same time with one of them moving to a new position?

Assuming the season continues pretty well and the team doesn't end up 4-8 or 5-7 do you think all of our currently committed recruits will sign in February?

Have you ever talked to the coaching staff about the subject of the admissions department at UCLA perhaps lowering the standard for athletes to gain admittance? I know we want smart kids in the program but there must be some frustration on the part of the coaching staff when they see talented kids get into Cal (DeSean Jackson) who perhaps could have been Bruins if not for admissions policy. Do you know if there has been any discussion at all about this between the two departments?

Considering Markey is 50/50 for the game and Bell has some shoulder issues, who do you think the staff would go with if neither of them could go?

I think you do a great job at reporting the news with as little bias as possible but, I heard that beat writers that stick to a certain team do not remain with the club for to long, so as to not develop extended loyalty. What are your thoughts on that and is this in the future since you have been here for five years now?

What have you heard on Luc this summer? Has he improved his outside game (specifically his jump shot) enough to be a legitimate threat at the 3 this season?

What are the chances of Darrell Scott landing in UCLA? Who leads for him right now and are we in the thick of it for his services? Thanks

Last week, the passing game finally used some screen passes to the running backs with good overall success (excepting Theriot's drop in the first quarter). It seemed effective mitigating OSU's rush.

Any idea why Norvell hasn't passed to the TE position more. Between Paulsen and Snead, they have about 4 total receptions. Seems like a wasted opportunity.

Which offensive and defensive player wants the most revenge for last year's loss to the bar-fighting irish?

Why were the Bruins so conservative on offense on Saturday? It was back to the run, run, pass and punt offense, with an occasional screen pass thrown in. They seem to be playing not to lose, which they cannot afford to do against Cal, Oregon and ASU.

Brian, as always, thanks for all the info provided on your blog.

In your opinion, what do you feel are Dorrell's weaknesses or needs for improvement as a head coach, based upon what you have seen from other coaches? Second, with respect to your comments about our WRs not being able to get open, what is the main reason for this (inability to overcome the press or speed)?

As a follow up to the first question, how have the other true freshmen looked on the scout team? Do any of them appear to be potential impact players?

thanks

Brian, great job as always. Is UCLA planning a big day at the Rose Bowl for all recruits to take their official visits? I would have thought the ND game would have been a great opportunity to showcase the stadium to prospective recruits. Also, what is the latest with Hamani Stevens, Golden, and Mobley?

Hi Brian,

Any update on J'mison Morgan? I know he had an on campus visit and supposedly it went well but you have any other insight on his visit or his updated preferences?

Thanks.

Brian,

What is the latest news on Pat Cowan? Any chance he'll be ready for the game against California? I know that Pitre has already used his red shirt season; is there any way he could take a medical red shirt for this season and be back for 2008?

Brian,

Any chance the Fat-Man loses his job this year, like Ty did in year three? Would he get canned at 2-10? How about 0-12? What about the status of ND AD Kevin White? Would he be resigned before or after firing Weis?

Brian,

Any chance the Fat-Man loses his job this year, like Ty did in year three? Would he get canned at 2-10? How about 0-12? What about the status of ND AD Kevin White? Would he be resigned before or after firing Weis?

Nice job with this Blog. What does KD attribute the chronic false Starts by the O?
Also Christian Ramirez: will he see playing time at RB this week?

What recruits are visiting for the ND game?

Agree with everyone here. You do a great job with the blog, always posting something new every day. I've really enjoyed it.
Now, on to the question:
Much of the WCO I've seen in the past from other teams incorporate dink-and-dunk passes. But UCLA doesn't seem to have any plays like that. Or do they and Ben isn't reacting quickly enough?
If not, why doesn't UCLA do that at least at the start of the game to get Ben in a rhythym?
Danke.

In last week's Q&A, you mentioned that Stanford's Mike Montgomery was the frontrunner to replace Steve Lavin. Dan Guerrero has maintained that Ben Howland was his first, second and third choice as shown with the fact that other alleged candidates like Mark Few and Lon Krueger were not formally interviewed. What's up?

Brian,

I dislike the Pac-10's tie in with Fox Sports but was wondering if it's possible to have some games nationally televised on the regular Fox channel. It'll definately improve the conference's coverage. Thanks.

I was wondering if you could personally ask dorrell about rasshan. I know he keeps saying he'll play more but i only saw him in 3 snaps during Washingotn. I think that was the week in his press conference where he said they were gong to get him more reps. If they are not going to play him why do they keeps saying they are?

Aaron Hester is he a strong commit or would you not be surprised if he went elsewhere?He seems to be good at avoiding the media. What's your take on him?

Which of the incoming freshman do you see having the biggest impact next year? I know you always bring up the LOI and the non-binding commitment. Disregardng that which is an impact true freshman based on talent and depth at the position.

Brian, thanks for all your efforts, this really is a great resource for bruin information, and I can think of no other sportswiter making themselves so available...save Wolfe, of course.

I am wondering about Chase Moline, or as we like to call him, "Straight ahead Fred." Where does he appear on the depth chart? I know the wrist injury put him at a disadvantage, is he solely limited by lack of reps & conditioning at this point? He's not the fastest, but he is a big back who moves the pile. Late game reps when the contest is over aside, what's the likelihood of seeing him in a bigger role?

How are Brandon Bennett and Sonny Tevaga coming along? Are they showing improvement?

First, let me echo the previous comments regarding your blog. It is informative and provides a unique perspective on what is going on with the Bruins.

Now my question: has Karl Dorrell ever articulated why he is so committed to the West Coast Offense and has he ever considered changing?

Brian,

In the last mailbag you mentioned that Howland wasn't UCLA's first choice, which candidates were ahead of Howland? Thank you.

I know Michael Pitre used his red shirt year - but if he doesn't play again this year can't he apply for a medical red shirt?

Hey Brian,

Why didn't CKD give some of the younger players more game time last week when the result was well in hand. With so many seniors graduating, isn't it important to give some of the younger guys some experience? I think CKD is planning poorly for the future.

Thanks for your insight.

Brian , what is the recruiting status of Utah (TE) Austin Holt ? Thanks ...

Brian, before the Utah game you answered questions saying that it appeared the Bruins' strategy demonstrated in practice was holding back some of their game, presumably to use it against more worthy conference opponents. Do you see any of that in the preparation for Notre Dame?

Brian, what is the typical schedule for the Bruins on road games? Do they fly out Thursday or Friday? Is there any walk-thru conducted on Friday afternoons at the opposing venue? What has been your favorite venue to visit? What is normally the worst? I'm presuming Pullman, WA for the last one. Thanks as always.

Brian, have you had a chance to talk with any of the 2008 commits and is USC actively trying to sway them with more false promises (see Allan Bradford).

Brian, I'm not trying to be cute or the likes. I am becoming more and more bothered and concerned when I see an overgrown child (i.e., Geoff S. - the Alumni "cheerleader") doing his thing, leading cheers, and in many ways overshadowing the student (or quite possibly the official) cheerleaders and spirit squad who, I’m assuming, are designated by UCLA. Why is it so necessary for there to be a division between the two groups? I've been to a few other college games (i.e., Big Ten schools) and don't see any of this. Quite frankly, the guy is an embarrassment especially the way he dresses up in an outdated getup. And what else bothers me to no end is when the band splits up in the 3rd quarter so that it can "entertain" the fans on the visiting side of the field. They're playing over each other. It's silly, foolish, and shows no unity in spirit whatsoever. Why does UCLA do it? Is the band doing their thing as a means of entertainment and self-promotion, or are they there to support the Football team? What do you know about this? Any comments?

Brian, Re: Rose Bowl Alternatives...
Whether due to remodelling or a new contract to play elsewhere, The Bruins will need to play somewhere other than the RB (assuming it will take more than one off-season to rennovate). What venues seem to be the frontrunners to you?

Re: Olson's Eyes, Legs, and Arm...
After watching him play for almost a full season, I think he's still too "easy to read". Do they ever practice looking off & checking down receivers?

He stepped up in the pocket a few times vs OSU, but still got sacked and hit many times. Do they ever incorporate footwork drills (and other skills) once the season starts, or is it exclusively play execution?

Lastly, with so much of the WCO involving short passes, why doesn't he ever pump-fake? If he's never going to check down a receiver, maybe "Mr. Lock-On" could at least make opposing secondaries stay honest with a well timed pump-fake and double move. That play's been ripe for so long, it's almost rotten.

As always, thanks for the time and effort you put into your work. This planet is a better place because of you! GO BRUINS!

Do you think Jay will structure the game plan to get the ball to Blade early?

Do you know how seriously Zebrie Sanders is considering UCLA? Where do you think he'll end up?

Thanks for answering questions, Brian. In your blog, you mentioned Dorrell said Harwell may come back in a few weeks. Would they really push for the a few more games this season possibly nto at 100% instead of just shutting it down? Separately, I imagine you cannot give names, but how many of the recruits could you foresee having qualifying issues?

Kudos to Brian and Jill for the blog. UCLA seems to be able to run the ball better at the end of game rather than at the beginning (see BYU, UW, and OSU). Do you think this has anything to do with the offensive line and/or Bell wearing the opposing defense down? With Markey injured, which combination of backs splitting plays is more likely: Bell/Moline or Bell/Ramirez?

a former ucla player was on the air earlier this week and said the bruins don't have enough talent to win the national championship, but we do have enough to win the pac 10 championship. would you agree with him for this year's team? what does this say about the pac ten versus the SEC or other conferences?