August 2008 Archives

Colony High of Ontario guard (we're talking hoops, here) Tyler Lamb actually committed to UCLA last week, but the family asked for it to be kept quiet until the other schools could be notified. The family broke the silence about it when I spoke with Lamb's dad, Terry, a few hours ago.
"Yes, Tyler was offered by UCLA and he committed on the 25th (of August),'' Terry said.
Terry Lamb added his son, a class of 2010 recruit, committed now because he always wanted to go to UCLA. Since Bruins coach Ben Howland offered the scholarship earlier this month, Tyler decided to move ahead with his dream school, Terry said.
I will have more on the commitment in Monday's paper.

Colony High of Ontario shooting guard Tyler Lamb, a class of 2010 recruit, has committed to UCLA. I just got off the phone with his father, Terry, and he confirmed it. I will have more in a little while.

Forgot to mention this a few times, but I will now. UCLA basketball commit Reeves Nelson, a power forward out of Modesto Christrian High, went out for the football team. From what I've heard, he is a tight end/defensive end.

Quarterback Kevin Craft is making his first start for UCLA, but he has played in front of big crowds and he isn't a newbie when it comes to college football.
In fact, Craft's first career start came in the stadium where is he scheduled to make his second start as a Bruin. He completed 20 of 32 passes for 216 yards and an interception in a 47-17 loss at BYU.
UCLA travels to BYU's 64,000-seat LaVell Edwards Stadium to play Sept. 13.

UCLA quarterback Kevin Craft said he's watched plenty of film of Tennessee's defense, and said the athleticism of the defense stands out.
"They're returning everybody and they've got really good players up front,'' Craft said. "They're linebackers can move and they have one safety (Berry), he's really good. He'll come up and hit you and he also had some interceptions.''
Craft said he hasn't seen much blitzing from the Vols defense in film he watched.
"They just kind of played their sets," Craft said. "It'll be a good test for us.''

I wrote a (long) profile story on UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel in today's paper, and also included is the notebook.
One quote I found interesting but didn't work in the story was this gem from Neuheisel, who talked about the "Relentlessly Positive" sign he had posted in UCLA's locker room.
"You can't say that and then think you won't have a good year,'' Neuheisel said. "(Former Washington athletic director) Barbara Hedges' biggest thing was hope is not a strategy, but dreaming with your feet on the ground, meaning here's your plan and here's how to achieve your dream, that is a strategy.
"We were picked to finish fifth my senior year and we were Pac-10 champs. Now, we got lucky because other teams flopped, but luck is part of it."

Here is UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's media briefing after Saturday's practice. The Bruins will head to the team hotel tomorrow in preparation for Monday's opener against Tennessee.
005_E_016_Recorder.mp3

UCLA staged its last practice today before Monday's season opener against Tennessee. As per usual, it was a light day in which the emphasis is on execution and low on impact.
After the practice, Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel spoke with his team in preparation of playing the Vols, and also had former assistant coach and academic affairs guru Ed Kezirian speak to the team. And Neuheisel said, yes, Kezirian did wave his towel in the meeting.
As for real news, Neuheisel made official what I've been reporting, that the offensive line will be RT Nick Ekbatani, RG Sonny Tevaga, C Micah Reed, LG Scott Glicksberg and LT Micah Kia.
Only Kia and Reed have starting experience. Ekbatani played on the offensive line in 2006, but not last season, Glicksberg's only playing experience is as a tight end and defensive lineman and Tevaga has never taken a college snap.

I spoke to UCLA tailback Raymond Carter about the knee injury that sidelined him last season, and he is adamant everything is fine.
After showing inconsistencies early in training camp, Carter has performed better as of late. Although he still wears a cumbersome knee brace, he said there are no issues with his knee.
"Seriously, I feel 100 percent,'' Carter said. "My knee has not been bothering me at all, this past camp or during this past week. I feel like I'm ready to get out there.''

We shall end the Q&A this week with lucky No. 13. Here is the last set of answers for this week.
Remember, though, I will have stuff all weekend, and have the open forums for discussions before, during and after Monday's game, as well as reaction from the locker room after the Tennessee game.
Now, onto the final set of answers:

Here is the notebook I wrote in today's paper, focusing on UCLA's offense going against Tennessee's defense.
"They're returning everybody and they've got really good players up front,'' UCLA quarterback Kevin Craft said. "They're linebackers can move and they have one safety (Berry), he's really good. He'll come up and hit you and he also had some interceptions.''

Morning, all. Here is the 12th set of answers:

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel met with the media Friday, and here is what he said:
Neuheisel 829.mp3

Here is the final set of answers for the night, but if there is any other breaking news, I will have it tonight. However, because of the high volume of questions again, I will have a few sets of answers Saturday.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel was -- surprise, surprise -- enthusiastic about Friday's practice, saying he liked the way the Bruins performed and the players looked fresh.
It also came as little surprise when Neuheisel said it would be safe for me to pencil in Micah Kia as the starting left tackle. Kia went through a full practice with his left hand in a cast, but with each of his fingers sticking out, which gave him plenty more mobility.
And despite a poor day kicking off, special teams coach Frank Gansz Jr. said he expected Jimmy Rotstein to handle kickoffs.
On an injury note, quarterback Nick Crissman is going to have a second MRI on his injured right shoulder after the first one came back cloudy. However, the fear is Crissman tore his labrum in the front, and he acknowledged surgery may be needed.

Here is the 10th set of answers:

By the way, I will be on ESPN radio 710-AM in Los Angeles at 7 p.m. tonight.
Here is the ninth grouping:

For some reason, the notebook I wrote for today's paper never made it online. I am trying to get it straightened out, but here is what I wrote:

And here is the eighth set:

Here is the seventh set of answers:

I'm hearing the number of high school recruits who could show up at UCLA's opener Monday against Tennessee may top 50. Be mindful not all will be Pac-10 caliber players, but building relationships with schools, and its players, is very important in the recruiting process.
That said, here are the high-profile players I'm hearing are planning to attend;
UCLA commits
QB Richard Brehaut (Los Osos of Rancho Cucamonga), LB Isaiah Bowens (Bishop Amat of La Puente and LB Todd Golper (Arcadia)

Other 2009 recruits
Arizona commit TE Chris Coyle (Oaks Christian of Westlake), TE J.T. Kerr (Scripps Ranch of San Diego), WR Ricky Marvray (Centennial of Corona), USC commit S Byrone Moore (Narbonne), OT Michael Philipp (Arroy Valley of San Bernardino) and USC commit TE Morrell Presley (Carson).

2010 recruits
LB Hayes Pollard of Crenshaw, WR Robert Woods (Serra Gardena) and S Sean Parker (Narbonne).

Here is the sixth installment:

Here is the fifth set:

Before the college football season really kicks into high gear Saturday, the college futbol season begins for UCLA Friday.
As many of you know, I do enjoy that sport the Americans call soccer, and the 14th-ranked Bruins open the season tonight against No. 8 Maryland at the Home Depot Center at 7 p.m. Those interested can watch it on Fox Soccer Channel.
And for those who do tune in, keep an eye on Bruins defender Brad Rusin (No. 3), who is a smooth player.

Here is the fourth installment:

I know some folks asked for an open forum during games to chat with others. I will set up a several posts for discussions a few hours prior to the game, one for the first half, one at half time and one for after the game in which folks to can post thoughts and exchange comments and ideas. Please keep it clean.
I will also have updates throughout the weekend, and before, during and after the game.
Now, Here is the third set of answers:

Here is the second set of answers:

Hey, folks. Finally, the season is just about here, and I can't wait for it. I'm curious to see how things go. As for the questions, again, there were a bundle of them. I will have 12 sets of answers today, and few more that spill into Saturday.
Without further ado, here is the first set of answers:

Here is a column by Steve Dilbeck on a blueprint to success for UCLA, and a quick look at what the Bruins are facing, by Jill Painter.
Also, here is a schedule breakdown:

UCLA's 2008 schedule
Sept. 1 Tennessee
Volunteers needed for O-line in Neuheisel/Chow debut.
Sept. 13 at BYU
Most physical team UCLA played (twice) last season promises another beating.
Sept. 20 Arizona
Bruins def. coordinator DeWayne Walker could be auditioning for 'Cats head job.
Sept. 27 Fresno State
10,000 expected to uproot from Central Valley for trip to big city.
Oct. 4 Washington State
Should be UCLA win, but Wazzu usually has Pasadena magic.
Oct. 11 at Oregon
Ducks coach Mike Bellotti ready to show why he shunned Westwood for Eugene.
Oct. 18 Stanford
Not quite Harvard-Yale, but still two schools taking academics more serious than football.
Oct. 25 at California
Will Bears be in beginning of next colossal collapse?
Nov. 8 Oregon State
Hey, even Karl Dorrell dominated Beavers coach Mike Riley.
Nov. 15 at Washington
What are the odds U-dub fans treat Neuheisel's return with class?
Nov. 28 at Arizona State
Will Bruins be turkeys day after Thanksgiving?
Dec. 6 USC
Will the Monopoly be over, or is it Trouble for the Bruins?

Here is UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's press briefing after Thursday's practice.
Neuheisel 828.mp3

According to UCLA, the MRI on freshman quarterback Nick Crissman's right shoulder shows some irregularities with his labrum. He will undergo additional tests.

It was a shorter practice than usual as UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel begins to taper off to keep the Bruins fresh for Monday's game with Tennessee. Also, the seniors had to hurry off the field for a donor dinner.
On the field, Neuheisel said the tempo was ok, but guys had heavy legs.
Neuheisel said he expected Micah Kia to play at left tackle despite a broken hand, but wasn't yet sure if Kia would start.
On the injury front, UCLA was awaiting results of an MRI on freshman quarterback Nick Crissman, but Neuheisel said he believed Crissman suffered a labrum injury in his right shoulder. With Crissman out, Osaar Rasshan returned to practice and quarterbacked the scout team offense.
Backup middle linebacker Steve Sloan wore a red no-hit jersey because of shoulder stingers, and red-shirting center Kai Maiava learned he had torn meniscus and a torn medical collateral ligament in his left knee, but surgery should not be needed, he said.

I spoke to Sylmar High forward Tyler Honeycutt earlier today, and the hoopster said his final four is USC, UCLA, Texas and Memphis. He said he had offers from all four schools, and wanted to take official visits to each one before making his decision.
He said he is tentatively set to visit USC the weekend of Sept. 13, when the Trojans host Ohio State in football.
"I want to go to a school were I can play right away and a place where I feel like I fit in and everyone gets along,'' Honeycutt said. "My mom wants me to stay close (to home). I'd kind of like to, but it depends on the school I chose."

UCLA running back Kahlil Bell is on the watch list for the Doak Walker Award. Here is the release:

Olympic coaches do no receive medals, but the U.S. Olympic Committee came up with a way to give awards to its coaches, and pair of UCLA coaches were honored.
Bruins women's track coach Jeanette Bolden and volunteer coach Bobby Kersee were give The Order of Ikkos Medallion.
Bolden was given the medallion after the women's U.S. 4x400m relay team captured gold, a team which featured former Bruin Monique Henderson. Kersee was given a medallion after another former Bruin, Dawn Harper, captured gold in the 100m hurdles.

Here is a release from UCLA about the game day events for Monday at the Rose Bowl:

UCLA quarterback Kevin Craft is quiet and reserved during interviews, but he is a very good competitor on the field, and not afraid of getting hit, or dishing out hits. He's also a good athlete, which offensive coordinator Norm Chow told me the other day.
Valley Center High in San Diego ran the run-oriented wing-t offense when he was a junior, so he played receiver, safety, tight end, linebacker and cornerback and also returned punts and kicks.
"I was good enough to play wherever they needed to plug me in,'' Craft said. "My senior year, it was a normal offense, so I played quarterback."

Here is a story I wrote on Kevin Craft and his path to UCLA that ran in today's paper. Also, here is the notebook Jill Painter wrote off Wednesday's practice.
One thing Craft told me was that his first day of class at UCLA was in early April, and that was the first day the football team had meetings to get ready for spring practice. The next day spring practice began, and Craft basically knew no one on the team.
"It was kind of a whirlwind," Craft said. "I didn't know anybody, except for Pat (Cowan). I met him on my recruiting trip, and I was trying to figure out who everybody was, and get a handle on the offense. I was pretty behind on all that. It was my first day, and I was trying to figure it all out."

There were no changes to the offensive line today.

Last year, Tennessee's offensive line allowed a nation's best four sacks all season. Asked about that, DeWayne Walker said: ``Sacks are good. We want to try to just disrupt the quarterback. You don't have to sack the quarterback to disrupt the passing game. We can just try to make him uncomfortable and get our hands up and tip balls and all those kinds of things. Those things are just as good as sacks. It's still part of your pass defense.''

Nick Crissman was wearing a sling and didn't practice today. He tweaked his shoulder, according to Rick Neuheisel, yesterday and is expected to get an MRI. It's unknown if it's serious. He injured the shoulder and came out of Tuesday's practice but then returned.
CU transfer Kai Maiava had an MRI on his left knee. The results aren't in, but it is believed to be an MCL (medial collateral ligament) injury.
Micah Kia had a new cast, a smaller version of the previous one. He could even get a slimmer cast for Monday's game as doctors will take another look this weekend.
Marcus Everett practiced today.
Also, Terrence Austin practiced in a red, no-hit jersey.

Pete Carroll was asked at his weekly press conference what he thought about UCLA's ad that states: ``the football monopoly in Los Angeles is officially over.'' He was asked what he thought about Rick Neuheisel saying this.
``It's like the presidential race,'' Carroll said. ``The guy's got to say I endorse this.''
Asked again if he thought the monopoly was over, Carroll said: ``I never knew there was domination in football.''

From what I understand, true freshman Kevin Prince is gaining quickly on red-shirt freshman Chris Forcier in the competition to be UCLA's No. 2 quarterback. From what I hear, Prince is very good at picking up the offense and making the adjustments the coaching staff wants to see, but Forcier is lagging behind.
Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel said Forcier will be Kevin Craft's backup for the Tennessee game, but by the end of September it could be a different story.

The College GameDay gang for men's hoops will broadcast live from Cal's campus when the Bears host UCLA on Feb. 28. I included the schedule below:

Here is audio from Tennessee coach Phil Fulmer's conference call this morning.
Fulmer audio.mp3

Send in some questions by Friday 8 a.m., and I will post the answers afterward. (Please remember not to make the questions a zillion words.)
Also, as I reported in today's paper, UCLA is expecting 65,000 against Tennessee for the debut of coach Rick Neuheisel and his heralded staff. I'll be honest, I think this game should draw more, but I was curious what everyone else thought.

Athletes with UCLA ties won 15 medals, including four gold, at the Olympics. Here is the release from UCLA about it:

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper, which focused on attendance expectations for the first game of coach Rick Neuheisel's tenure.
Scott Mitchell, UCLA's assistant athletic director of marketing, said the Labor Day kickoff is something to consider.
"Labor Day might hurt,'' Mitchell said. "It's the first time we've played at home on a holiday, so you're losing some fans because of that. Being on (national) t.v. is a factor. Traffic could be a factor. The economy might be a factor.''
Mitchell also said knowing USC has sold out its home portion of its schedule creates perception issues.
"Something you have to keep in perspective is we have a lot of seats to fill and we're not where we want to be, and we aren't where the guys across town are,'' Mitchell said. "But the guys across town are doing better than anyone in the history of this town has ever done.
"In some ways, we're up against a tough comparison.''

UCLA left tackle Micah Kia said playing with his broken left hand heavily bandaged was "awkward," but added he was hopeful he could get fitted for a different cast over the weekend and play against Tennessee.
"It felt good, and there was nothing major,'' Kia said. "I'd like to get a new cast, but it's up to the doctor."

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel after Tuesday's practice.
Aug. 26 Neuheisel.mp3

UCLA just finished its Tuesday practice, and coach Rick Neuheisel said he was pleased with the way things went, especially since a few more periods were added for Tennessee prep.
Left tackle Micah Kia took reps with the first team offensive line, but with his left hand bandaged heavily and resembling a club. Unless he gets fitted with a cast that allows mobility with some part of his hand, offensive line coach Bob Palcic said it was unlikely Kia would play.
Receiver Marcus Everett did not take part in drills because of knee tendinitis. Neuheisel said it was a coach's decision to rest Everett for the day, but he should be back Wednesday.
Finally, it was a rough day for the scout team offense. Center Kai Maiava, a transfer from Colorado, went down with a left knee injury. He is to undergo an MRI to determine the extent of the injury.
And quarterback Nick Crissman missed some reps after injuring his shoulder. At one point, one of UCLA's graduate assistants was throwing passes as the scout team quarterback.

Mike Patrick will handle the play-by-play, Todd Blackledge will be the analyst and Holly Rowe is the sideline reporter for UCLA's opener against Tennessee on ESPN.

This is an ad that ran in today's Daily News. And for those with placement questions, it ran on the same page as the UCLA and USC football stories.

UCLA middle linebacker Reggie Carter and defensive tackles Brigham Harwell and Brian Price were added to the Lombardi Award watch list. Here is the release:

UCLA remains involved with Rancho Verde of Moreno Valley basketball guard Michael Snaer after both sides had a cooling off period in July. After talking to a few sources on the matter, the consensus was many schools believed Snaer was a secret commit to Missouri.
However, it turned out not to be the case, so other schools are again in the mix for Snaer. That said, I'm hearing UCLA is not tops on Snaer's list at this point, but that could change.

Here is the notebook I wrote in today's paper about the offensive line and the receiver Nelson Rosario. In addition, Rosario said his understanding of the offense is much better than it was in the early going.
"If they gave me a test, I'd be all right," Rosario said. "I know exactly what I'm supposed to do. It's a matter of me being more confident. Sometimes I second guess myself, but I've been getting rid of that and coming along a lot better."

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel addressed the media after Monday's practice, and begin by talking about a wrist injury to receiver Terrence Austin.

Neuheisel after Monday's practice.mp3

UCLA offensive line coach Bob Palcic told me today after practice he settled on a starting five, although it is contingent on the health of Micah Kia.
It will be: RT Nick Ekbatani, RG Sonny Tevaga, C Micah Reed, LG Scott Glicksberg and LT Kia of Brandon Bennett.
Kia was at practice today with his hand heavily wrapped, with no fingers exposed. It is uncertain when he will return to practice, but coach Rick Neuheisel things it will be this week.
There was also another injury when WR Terrence Austin injured his right wrist while trying to recover a fumble. However, x-rays were negative and Neuheisel said Austin should be ready for Tennessee.

The Pauley Pavilion pod is tentatively set for the first two rounds of the Coaches vs. Cancer basketball tournament. UCLA is set to play Prairie View A&M (as previously reported) in one bracket, and Weber State is going to tangle with Miami, Ohio, in the other game on Nov. 12.
The winner's play the follow day, with the winner of the group heading to Madison Square Garden for the semifinals and finals of the tournament. The other pods hosts are Michigan, Duke and Southern Illinois, with the expectation each of those teams will advance.
And, lest anyone forget, Bruins coach Ben Howland is a Weber State alum.

Here is the audio from UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's Monday press conference to preview the Tennessee game.

Neuheisel's Monday press conference.mp3

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said met the media for his weekly press conference, and he spoke about playing Tennessee in the season opener Monday at the Rose Bowl.
"We're eager to find out where we are,'' Neuheisel said.
A couple other quick hitters --
*Neuheisel said defensive tackle Brigham Harwell (back spasms) should return to practice Tuesday. He hasn't practiced since Thursday.
*Neuheisel added starting left tackle Micah Kia (broken left hand) was being fitted for a custom cast and it was anticipated he would be ready to play.
*"There will be growing pains, but we'll have to weather those,'' Neuheisel said.
*Neuheisel's first career start came against fellow SEC team Georgia, which somebody brought up.
"I knew it was going to be a tough night when Uga threw up on my shoes,'' said Neuheisel, who opined about throwing four interceptions. "I'm not sure which Uga, though.''

UCLA running back Kahlil Bell brought an optimistic attitude to a media session today, stating "anything less than a Pac-10 championship ...that's what our goal would be."
On UCLA's coaching staff, Bell said "We've got the best coaches in the nation."
Bell also said he consulted with doctors and will wear his knee brace all season, but was not experiencing any pain or discomfort with his knee. "The only thing I feel is the knee brace on the knee,'' he said.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel will hold his press conference in preparation of the Tennessee opener, so I will have info from that this afternoon.
The Westwood Bruins Touchdown Club is hosting its first breakfast of the season Friday. Here is the information:

La Canada Renaissance Academy center Anthony Stover said he has been on campus a few times this summer, the latest being Thursday when he got to play pickup basketball at the men's gym with a bunch of the NBA guys.
"That was a fun, a good experience,'' Stover said.

In hoops recruiting, La Canada Renaissance Academy center Anthony Stover said he has trimmed his list to four schools, and those are UCLA, Arizona, Arizona State and Washington.
"That's about it,'' Stover said. "Those are my last four schools."
He said he will take official visits to his four finalists before committing in late October or early November, and already has a Sept. 6 visit lined up at Arizona State.
"I'm going to take one to UCLA just to see it,'' Stover said.

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper. Also, the feeling along the defensive line is it may be better off, on a whole, than last year because of the size and strength of the starting four. Here is what Korey Bosworth had to say about it:
"All four of us are really strong, physical players,'' Bosworth said. "We work well together. We have two big, really strong tackles, and they're going to be the anchors."

On a side note, I know a lot of new people are coming by the blog and checking in, and even commenting. I appreciate it. However, please keep the language clean. I had to delete more comments in the last week than I had to in the previous six months.
Please, no foul language. Please make your point without the foul language.

I talked to UCLA running back Aundre Dean, one of the standouts of the incoming freshman class, about being frustrated early in training camp at a lack carries. He said at one point he thought the unthinkable would happen -- that he could red-shirt rather than play this season.
"It got a little cloudy,'' Dean said. "I was like, 'Man, really, I am going to red-shirt?' It was starting to turn for a little bit. I got on the phone and talked to my dad, and he said just play ball."
Dean said he started asking questions about his assignments, rather than his stature in the backfield, and his carries in practice increased. And last week UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said Dean was the only one of the four incoming freshman running backs who would be available for the season-opener against Tennessee.

One of the reasons UCLA center/power forward Alfred Aboya was looking into playing overseas rather than returning to school for his senior season was family related. The thought was if Aboya could make a good salary, he could help his family back in Cameroon financially.
However, it did not materialize, so he is set to enroll in graduate school at UCLA. That said, Aboya filed the paperwork to enroll in graduate school, but still needs to be admitted. In talking to folks close to the situation, that is a formality, but it still must take place.
Finally, in speaking with coach Ben Howland, one thing he said about Aboya's return was it will elevate the level of practice every day. No one works harder or plays harder than Aboya, and his physical nature of playing gets guys ready for the banging within the Pac-10.

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper, and from watching the practices throughout training camp is was evident to see UCLA wants to use tight end Logan Paulsen in the offense.
Here is what offensive coordinator Norm Chow said about Paulsen:
"He's a solid player," Chow said. "He's an NFL tight end. He's good at a lot of things. Nothing stands out. He's solid with everything he does."

Yikes, folks. That was a lot of questions, and I thank everyone for it. This is the most popular segment of the blog, so I hope the information is helpful. Now, onto the final set of answers:

UCLA worked out at the Rose Bowl on Saturday, and coach Rick Neuheisel spoke about it afterward. The audio quality isn't the best, but I thought I would give it a try anyway. Here's what he had to say:

Neuheisel after Rose Bowl workout.mp3

UCLA staged a walk-through/practice at the Rose Bowl today, and it was uneventful. Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel said quarterback Kevin Craft looked much better than he did Friday, when he was plagued by interceptions.
Neuheisel also said Kevin Prince, a freshman, took reps with the second team offense, but at this time Chris Forcier remained the backup.
Neuheisel added tailback Kahlil Bell could be expected to take part in 50 to 70 percent of the plays against Tennessee, and that Chane Moline would be his first backup, followed closely by Raymond Carter.
Also, quarterback Osaar Rasshan did not practice today because of a sore knee.

Former UCLA center Frank Cornish died in his sleep yesterday. Here is the release from UCLA:

Here is a story I wrote on Alfred Aboya saying he was returning to UCLA for his senior season. Some folks may think this was always a foregone conclusion, but it was not. As recently as two weeks ago, Aboya was still looking hard for a chance to play overseas.
That opportunity never materialized, so he told me Friday he was going to come back to UCLA.

Here is the next to last batch of answers for this week's Q&A.

Here is the 13th installment of this weeks Q&A:

UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow told me after Friday's practice that Kevin Prince was in the running to be the backup to starting quarterback Kevin Craft.
It's an interesting development because the staff has spent the last seven to 10 days saying Chris Forcier needed to work harder off the field. Personally, I think it will be hard for Prince to unseat Forcier, but that UCLA is even considering it says plenty about the situation.

Morning, everyone. The answers are continuing today, and here is the first set of them.

Men's basketball player Alfred Aboya told me today he will return to UCLA for his senior season. As recently as two weeks ago, Aboya, who is graduating after the current summer session is complete, was still toying with the idea of playing overseas.
I will have more on it in Saturday's paper.

Here is the final set of answers for tonight. The overwhelming response has, again, caused me to drag the last few sets of answers into another day. I'm thinking there will be three or four sets of answers Saturday.

What school do you think might challenge the Bruins for a basketball pac-ten title this year?
Geez, that's a good question. I'm looking at Arizona State and, believe it or not, Arizona. I don't see it as being a great year for Pac-10 hoops.

There seems to be a consensus that Coach Walker is a top defensive coordinator. Yet it seems to me that teams that run the spread offense have enjoyed great success against the Bruins D during Coach Walker's tenure. Do you think Coach Walker's defensive schemes will match up better against spread offenses this year?
That is a criticism first made popular, to my knowledge, by USC coach Pete Carroll. Sometimes it is just the talent on the other side of the ball that makes it hard for Walker's defenses to match up against spread offenses. I don't really believe in it.

Base on what you've seen of him, if Brehaut was on the team this year, would he start ahead of Craft and Forcier?
I don't think so. I think it is very hard to start a true freshman because there is so much for them to learn.

How do you pronounce Datone Jones's first name?
Day-tone

Why are they having so many concussions? Hopefully it's from real hard hitting.
It's not from the hard-hitting, that is for sure. I think it is because UCLA's training staff (and rightfully so) is hyper-sensitive to concussions, so any time a kid has a symptom that could be related to concussions, he is pulled from the field. So, in short, a headache five years ago is now a conussions.

Are you getting any feeling as to how long Chow will stay at UCLA?
I think he will be at UCLA for at least the length of his contract, which is three years.

Where would you rank our defense in the Pac-10?
Right now I think they will be in the top three. The problem will be whether or not the defense gets worn down during the season, of if the offense does enough to keep the defense fresh.

Do you see guys like Embree and Abbott eventually getting scholarships?
Embree, yes, since he already is on scholarship. I think Abbott has a chance to earn one in the next two years.

Joshua Edwards looked pretty big at the scrimmage. Do you see him having a big year?
No, I don't. I think the time he missed in training camp was vital to his development, and he is now relegated to a backup role. Unless there is an injury or two, I think he will be a role player.

From what you've seen, do Bradford and Baca have the ability to help us out in 2009?
I think Baca has a chance, but I think Bradford is a little more down the road. That said, Baca is missing valuable practice time because of his knee injury.

Sorry, I had to break UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel into two segments today. But I'm sure you will all get a kick out the question(s) from a Fox television reporter.
Neuheisel Friday.mp3

Here is the ninth set of answers:

Andy Keane, the subject of many questions this week in the Q&A portion, was shifted back to offensive line, where he worked out today. Alas, it was only to play on scout team.
Also, tight end Ryan Moya remains limited in practice because of a hip flexor injury.

Lots of doings with practice today, including Kevin Prince taking some reps with the second unit. Sorry for the teaser, but I will have more on that in Saturday's paper, and it is quite interesting.
DT Brigham Harwell sat out today with back spasms, and likely will not practice Saturday.
Also, offensive line coach Bob Palcic went with a bundle of different combinations with the first unit, the most intriguing (and likely for the opener) being RT Nick Ekbatani, RG Darius Savage, C Micah Reed, LG Scott Glicksberg and LT Micah Kia or Brandon Bennett. Kia will have his left hand x-rayed again early next week and UCLA is hopeful he can play against Tennessee.
Quarterback Kevin Craft did not have a particularly sharp day, getting criticism from coach Rick Neuheisel for taking a step back after throwing interceptions on three straight plays. "This was not a good day for Kevin,'' Neuheisel said.
However, offensive coordinator Norm Chow said it wasn't a big issue since the throws came on plays down the field, or "touchdown plays,'' as Chow called them.
And Neuheisel also wasn't thrilled with the tempo of practice, saying his team has to understand how to maintain its focus and intensity when not practicing in full pads.

Here is the eighth set of answers:

Here is the seventh grouping:

Here is the sixth set:

There will be 11 sets of answers today, plus a few more Saturday. I will also have updates on practice later today. Now, here is the fifth grouping:

Here is the fourth installment:

This is the official depth chart, as released by UCLA, for the season opener on Sept. 1 against Tennessee. Please keep in mind this is subject to change, and doesn't always mirror the reps players are taking in practice.

Here is the third set of answers:

Here is the second set of answers:

In the words of my 2 1/2-year-old son, 'Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!" There were a lot of questions again this week. I am getting a late start on them, but I know there will be at least 11 sessions today, and it may leak into Saturday for the last set or two of answers.
Anyway, here's the first set:

I'm hearing UCLA will host a number of recruits on unofficial visits for the season opener against Tennessee on Sept. 1, although final plans are still being formulated. Most of the committed kids will be in attendance, including Los Osos quarterback Richard Brehaut and Arcadia linebacker Todd Golper. There should also be a number of uncommitted players in attendance.
Also, I'm now being told Columbus (Ga.) Carver High offensive lineman Chris Hubbard will be making an official visit the weekend of Oct. 4, when the Bruins host Washington State.

By the way, here is a story I wrote about whether the defense will have to carry the offense this season, and a notebook that talks about John Hale winning the starting strong side linebacker spot.

I give a lot of credit to Milton Knox for being at practice Thursday. I heard great things about his character during the recruiting process, and saw it first hand Thursday.
Knox said his father, Milton Sr., suffered a minor heart attack Wednesday and underwent bypass surgery.
"I was with him all night at the hospital,'' Knox said. "They said he is going to be all right, and were even talking about him coming home early.''
Milton Jr. easily could have bagged practice, especially knowing he is playing on the scout team, but chose to take part in it anyway.

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's press briefing after Thursday's practice.

Neuheisel's Thursday media session.mp3

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel listed the freshmen who were not going to red-shirt, and it was similar to the list I provided on the blog Wednesday night.
Those who will be available for the opener are RB Aundre Dean, TE Cory Harkey, WR Nelson Rosario, WR Antown Moutra, DB Rahim Moore, DE Datone Jones, LB Sean Westgate, CB Aaron Hester and DB Tony Dye.
I'm hearing Hester could still red-shirt, as could Dye, depending how both develop in practice and based on the needs of the secondary.
And I know some were wondering, so I asked Neuheisel, and he said WR Taylor Embree, who enrolled in January, was expected to play this season.

UCLA broke into scout team and first- and second-team offenses and defenses for practice today as preparation for Tennessee kicked into high gear.
Neuheisel said "I think it was the best first day I've seen for scouts."
There was also another development on the offensive line as guard Scott Glicksberg worked out at left tackle, which will be a safety valve is Micah Kia cannot play against Tennessee and Brandon Bennett has trouble.
When asked about whether Kai Forbath or Jimmy Rotstein will kick off, Neuheisel said Rotstein "is heading that contest right now, but we'll see."
Neuheisel added Terrence Austin and Raymond Carter were the leaders to return kicks, and Austin was leading to be the punt returner while Ryan Graves was second string.

UCLA left tackle Micah Kia said he broke his left hand when it got stuck between the pads of a pair of teammates.
Kia said it's a spiral fracture, which according to Wikipedia, is "a fracture where at least one part of the bone has been twisted.''
"It's a spiral of the third,'' Kia said. "It was kinda a freak accident. My arm got stuck in the pads and twisted. My arm stayed in one place and my hand went to another."
Kia said he was told surgery would not be needed.

Here is UCLA's offensive two-deep as the Bruins broke training camp.
First team Second team
QB Kevin Craft / Chris Forcier
LT Brandon Bennett / Nick Ekbatani
LG Nick Ekbatani / Scott Glicksberg
C Micah Reed / Jake Dean
RG Sonny Tevaga / Jess Ward or Darius Savage
RT Nate Chandler / Nick Ekbatani
TE Logan Paulsen / Cory Harkey
RB Kahlil Bell / Raymond Carter or Chane Moline
FB Trevor Therior / Chane Moline
WR Dominique Johnson / Terrence Austin
WR Marcus Everett / Nelson Rosario

*Starting LT Micah Kia has a broken left hand, but is hopeful of playing in the season opener against Tennessee.

I received some requests about UCLA's two-deep, but held off until training camp was over and it sorted itself out.
I will post the offense later today, but here is the defensive two-deep.
(Also, check the right side of the blog's main page. We will have links to stories about UCLA's opponents from various news sources, so give it a look.)

First team Second team
DE Tom Blake / David Carter
DT Brigham Harwell / Chase Moline
DT Brian Price / Jerzy Siewierski
DE Korey Bosworth / Datone Jones
WLB Kyle Bosworth / John Hale
MLB Reggie Carter / Steve Sloan
SLB John Hale / Akeem Ayers
CB Michael Norris / Courtney Viney
CB Alterraun Verner / Rahim Moore
SS Rahim Moore / Bret Lockett*
FS Aaron Ware / Glenn Love

*Lockett is suspended for the first game, but could start after that. Moore is also UCLA's nickel back, used when the Bruins employ five defensive backs.

Here is the notebook I wrote that was in today's paper. Also, I will have the depth charts, as witnessed from practice, posted later today.
And one quote I didn't use in the paper was this comment from UCLA defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker, explaining whey so much of the defense was put in during training camp.
"If you just start putting in new stuff after training camp, the players are like, 'What? We don't know this stuff. Now, we have to learn all new calls,' " Walker said. "I don't think that's smart. And I knew we would have some young kids playing -- like Rahim (Moore), Datone (Jones), (Courtney) Viney and (Akeem) Ayers -- so when he you make those calls, they know them."

Beginning Thursday, UCLA's practices are closed to the public.

When UCLA cornerback Michael Norris raced down field and downed a punt inside the 10-yard line during Wednesday's practice, it elicited this response from special teams coach Frank Gansz Jr.: "We can count on you, baby. You can deliver."
I spoke to Gansz after practice about the return game, and although Terrence Austin leads in the competition for returning punts and kicks, he had plenty of superlatives for Norris.
"Michael Norris impresses me as a football player all around,'' Gansz said. "I'm very impressed with Mike Norris right now. I'm talking about punt returns, kick returns, everything.
"I like Mike Norris as a football player. I think he's one of the best football players on this team, and I think the guy does everything he's supposed to be doing. And I like his consistency day-in and day-out, not only on the field, but in the classroom."

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said the staff would meet today to decide which freshmen would red-shirt, and which would play. That said, here is what I'm hearing:
Will play this season
DB Rahim Moore, DE Datone Jones, WR Nelson Rosario, WR Antwon Moutra, TE Cory Harkey and RB Aundre Dean

May play this season
LB Sean Westgate, DB Tony Dye, DB Aaron Hester, RB Johnathan Franklin and WR Jerry Johnson

Likely to red-shirt
OL, Connor Bradford, OL Jeff Baca, LB Donovan Carter, RB Derrick Coleman, QB Nick Crissman, DE Damien Holmes, LB Patrick Larimore, RB Milton Knox, P Jeff Locke, QB Kevin Prince and S E.J. Woods

(Keep in mind this could change due to injury or performance. Also, depth in the secondary could allow UCLA to red-shirt Dye and Hester.)

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's meeting with the media after Wednesday's practice.
Wednesday morning Neuheisel.mp3

Almost forgot about the Q&A this week. Send in the queries by 8 a.m. Friday, and I will have the responses later throughout the day.

UCLA concluded its training camp today, with coach Rick Neuheisel opting to cancel the evening practice because of the hard work the team put in throughout training camp.
The offense struggled today in the morning practice, with quarterback Kevin Craft throwing a few interceptions. Among the defensive backs, Alterraun Verner had another strong showing, and he was the most consistent corner throughout training camp.
Running back Kahlil Bell, tight end Ryan Moya, left tackle Micah Kia and linebacker Kyle Bosworth did not practice because of various ailments.
Kia had his left hand in a cast, but said he planned on playing against Tennessee in the season opener.
Converted defensive tackle Jess Ward, now an offensive guard, was involved in contact drills today. It was his first practice with the offensive line, and he began by running with the second team.
Also, freshman offensive lineman Jeff Baca has a torn medial collateral ligament in his knee, but Neuheisel said it was not torn as much as feared and Baca should be back practicing in a few weeks.

The football program will host its first official visit of the season when the Bruins host Tennessee on Sept. 1. Chris Hubbard, a guard out of Columbus (Ga.) Carver High, is scheduled to visit.
Hubbard has offers from UCLA, Ole Miss, South Carolina, South Florida and UCLA.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel is rewarding the players by canceling tonight's practice, allowing the players to break from training camp a few hours earlier.
The Bruins' game prep for Tennessee will kick into high gear when practice begins Thursday. Also, keep in mind this morning's practice was the last one open to the public.
A couple of side notes:
--Bruins offensive coordinator Norm Chow will throw out the first pitch tonight at the Dodgers game.
--Given the state of UCLA's offensive line, one of the music selections from this morning's practice brought loads of chuckles. It was Jay Z's show me what you got, which begins "This is a state of emergency."

UCLA starting left tackle Micah Kia broke his hand in Tuesday's practice, but he is casted and in gear. It remains to be seen whether or not he practices today, but he's dressed like he is going to practice.
Running back Kahlil Bell is not dressed for practice, as is protocol for the first practice of double day sessions. Also, tight end Ryan Moya, who was being stretched out at times during Tuesday's practice, will be either limited or won't practice today.
And here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper.

UCLA defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker said his defense was "solid" in the scrimmage. In fact, in talking with him, he used the term "solid" a number of times to describe how the defense played.
He also said that in the 35 plays run against the first-team defense, the offense had one seven yards after contact.

There were no defensive changes to the starting lineup coming out of the scrimmage, but an ongoing battle continues to be senior John Hale vs. red-shirt freshman Akeem Ayers at strong side linebacker.
UCLA defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker said it is a tight competition, but at this point Hale's holding on to the spot.

Here is UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's press briefing following Tuesday's practice.
Tuesday Neuheisel.mp3

Just got an update from UCLA -- starting left tackle Micah Kia has a broken left hand and is probable for the season opener against Tennessee.
On a positive note, Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel said offensive linemen Mike Harris (ankle) and Jess Ward (knee), neither of whom ever played a college snap on the offensive line, should be cleared to practice Monday.

UCLA went through another practice, and what would one be without another injury. Starting left tackle Micah Kia left practice in the early going with a left hand injury suffered on the field goal/PAT team. X-rays were pending.
Also, freshman OL Jeff Baca, who was playing on the second team, is on crutches with a knee injury and will undergo an MRI on Wednesday.
As for other injuries, weakside linebacker Kyle Bosworth did not practice because of a sore groin, but coach Rick Neuheisel said it was a minor injury and Bosworth would be back Wednesday or Thursday.
Also, walk-on cornerback Andrew Abbott (knee) and freshman linebacker Patrick Larimore (back spasms) didn't practice.

Longtime former UCLA track coach Jim Bush needed medical assistance today while watching practice. The 81-year-old, who coached at UCLA from 1965-84, was helped to the trainer's shed early during practice, and the fire department was called in.
However, there is good news. Bush was dehydrated and after being checked by the fire department, returned to his home to relax and rehydrate.

Health is coming back to the Bruins. Other than the surgery guys, all the injured guys are out there practicing, which is good since it getting close to the time when practice will be geared almost 100 percent toward Tennessee.
Safety Glenn Love, offensive lineman Jess Ward, safety E.J. Woods, tight end Logan Paulsen, linebacker Reggie Carter and receiver Taylor Embree are all wearing red no-hit jerseys, but each are back in practice.
Receiver Dominique Johnson is also back at practice.

USC backers welcomed UCLA to the Rose Bowl, and asked the Bruins backers if they remembered what it was like to play in the Rose Bowl after Dec. 3.
Then, after James Washington talked about his charitable organization, Shelter 37, providing thousands of kids with free tickets to UCLA games, a Trojan yelled at "because tickets aren't available to USC games." That prompted a Bruin response, "because Reggie Bush's agent bought them all."
It was all part of the 'Fun in the Sun" golf tournament Monday at Brookside Golf Club, which hosted Washington's fundraising golf tournament. It was the fifth year of the event, and it was a splendid time spent with former UCLA and USC players and fans (hey, they even got along, for the most part) getting together on the golf course for a great cause.
"This is the fifth year of this tournament, and the first year we had it there were 68 people in it,'' said Washington, whose event has more than doubled in size. "We moved it to Brookside because they have 36 holes, and my goal is to fill every hole for this tournament in the future."
In all honesty, I wish I did something leading up to the tournament rather than something after, but I plan on doing it next year.
If you're not familiar with Shelter 37, take a moment to check it out. It's a wonderful organization, and nice to see Washington so involved in it.
By the way, word is the event could be in June next year, which will free a lot more football-type celebs to be involved because training camps are not underway.

As has been written about since Saturday's scrimmage, the running game needs massive improvement if UCLA's offense is going to be serviceable.
I spoke to Bruins running back Raymond Carter about this.
"I don't know what happened,'' Carter said. "There were times when I missed the hole, or went to the wrong place."
I asked him how many times during the scrimmage the offensive line opened holes for the running backs.
"All I can say is we will be ready in two weeks," said Carter, referring to the opener against Tennessee. "We have work to do, but all I can say is we will be ready for Tennessee."

Here is the transcript of Kevin Craft's post-afternoon practice chat with reporters after he was named UCLA's starting quarterback.

What does everyone think of Kevin Craft being named UCLA's starting quarterback?
(And for those who thought Chris Forcier performed better in the last week, particularly in the scrimmage, please keep in mind he was going against the second-team defense.)

Hey, everyone. I'm back at it today, but wanted to make sure everyone saw Jill Painter's story on Kevin Craft being named the starter at quarterback.
When it comes down to it, the reason coach Rick Neuheisel and offensive coordinator Norm Chow went with Craft is he knows the offense better. Neuheisel has been adamant about backup Chris Forcier needing to have better knowledge of the offense, and needing to spend more prep time before practice, which is something I wrote about in Monday's paper.
Also, Jill wrote about the offensive line shuffling in today's paper. It remains an area of concern, and that UCLA is still trying to find the right combination, even after naming a starting quarterback, suggest so.

Asked what he thought Rick Neuheisel saw in him to make him the starting quarterback, Craft said: ``Understanding what's going on and what we're doing. Understanding the offense and managing it. Putting our team in the best position to win.''

Kevin Craft was named UCLA's starting quarterback on Monday. He said he wouldn't change his preparations since he always prepares as though he's going to play.
``You've just got to keep working hard and worry about yourself,'' Craft said. ``Obviously, doing more reps with the 1s, that helps with your confidence.''

Gavin Ketchum has mononucleosis and will be out of practice for at least three weeks, Rick Neuheisel said. That means he's definitely out for the opener against Tennessee.

Kevin Craft. As expected, Rick Neuheisel named him UCLA's starting quarterback today. Will have more on this later.

Kahlil Bell had just one carry in Saturday's scrimmage, but he should get some work in tonight. Rick Neuheisel said he should get some work in this evening.
``We'll try to get six (carries for Bell) this afternoon and see where we are and keep monitoring it,'' Neuheisel said.

O-line coach Bob Palcic continues to change personnel on the offensive line in order to find the best combination. Nick Ekbatani, who'd been playing at right tackle, was at left guard today with the first team, and Nate Chandler returned from injury and was running with the first team at right tackle.

Korey Bosworth (ankle) was the only player injured in Saturday's scrimmage, and he returned to practice today. Players with concussions - Reggie Carter, Logan Paulsen, Glenn Love and E.J. Woods - are all scheduled to participate in noncontact drills on Tuesday.

Rick Neuheisel said after today's morning practice that he might make a decision today on his starting quarterback. Kevin Craft is the frontrunner. Neuheisel said he slept on it last night but needed to talk to Norm Chow this afternoon.
I'll keep you posted, so check back later. The evening practice is from 5-7 p.m.

This is Jill Painter, and I'll be filling in for Brian Dohn today. Morning practice goes until 11 a.m., so I'll post an update after that. Evening practice is from 5-7 p.m. UCLA took yesterday off.

Here is UCLA second-string quarterback Chris Forcier's interview after Saturday's scrimmage. He completed 7 of 13 passes for 71 yards and an interception.
Forcier post scrimmage.mp3

Here is the interview with UCLA first-string quarterback Kevin Craft after he went 8 of 18 for 93 yards, a touchdown and three interceptions in Saturday's scrimmage. I will post Chris Forcier's interview in a little while.
Craft post scrimmage.mp3

UCLA's first-team offensive line in the scrimmage consisted of LT Micah Kia, LG Sonny Tevaga, C Micah Reed, RG Darius Savage and RT Nick Ekbatani.
However, one thing I'm hearing is Tevaga's spot is in question, and there are two candidates -- Scott Glicksberg and Jess Ward. But both of those players underscore the issues of UCLA's offensive line, which did not perform well in the scrimmage.
I'm hearing the choice would be to go with Glicksberg, but he went through the spring with a separated shoulder, and there is concern how long he can last this season with a shoulder that continues to give him problems.
And then there is Ward. I'm told he is in the mix, but he may not be cleared for contact until the end of this week because of December knee surgery. Also, that UCLA is looking at Ward, who was moved from defensive tackle last weeks, shows the searching process that is ongoing.

Here is what UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow had to say about the performance of the offense in Saturday's scrimmage:
Norm on scrimmage.mp3

Here is the notebook I wrote off Saturday's scrimmage, and a comment from right tackle Nick Ekbatani about the play of the offensive line.
"We need to improve technique-wise,'' Ekbatani said. "We're there on assignments, which is good. But we have to work on getting our hats across, working on technique. We're getting better at it every day in camp, and now we have to kick it in overdrive because we're getting close to Tennessee. But I have no doubt in my mind that I'll be there.''

UCLA's offensive line had trouble opening holes for the running backs, and offensive coordinator Norm Chow said the pass protection was not what it needs to be.
But in terms of the running game, the offense tried 14 runs against the first- and second-team defense, and seven either didn't gain a yard or lost yardage. And the longest run was seven yards.
Part of it is because UCLA's first-team defensive line is very good, but the second-team offense didn't run the ball against the second-team defense, either.

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel meeting with the media following Saturday's scrimmage at Drake Stadium. By the way, attendance estimates were 3,000 to 4,000 fans.

Neuheisel post scrimmage.mp3

Here are the stats from the scrimmage:

Quarterback Stats

Kevin Craft - 8-18 for 93 yards
3 interceptions
14-yard rushing touchdown
3-yard touchdown pass to Marcus Everett

Chris Forcier - 7-13 for 71 yards
0 touchdowns
1 interception

Receiving Stats

Ryan Graves - 2 for 13 yards
Nelson Rosario - 3 for 40 yards
Terrence Austin - 3 for 40 yards
Antwon Moutra - 2 for 26 yards

Rushing Stats

Aundre Dean - 5 for 15 yards
Raymond Carter - 6 for 1 yard
Johnathan Franklin - 7 for 32 yards

Defensive Stats

Sacks - John Hale, Nathaniel Skaggs, Korey Bosworth (2), Justin Mann, David Carter, Chinonso Anyanwu, Justin Edison

Interception - Rahim Moore, Kyle Bosworth (touchdown), Tony Dye, Alterraun Verner

Safety - team (1)

Special Teams
Terrence Austin - 61-yard punt return for touchdown
Kai Forbarth and Jimmy Rotstein each had a field goal attempt blocked

Quick notes from the scrimmage:
-- Freshman Aundre Dean was the third running back used, and got plenty of reps.
-- QB Osaar Rasshan rested because of a sore knee.
-- One of UCLA's scoring plays was a 14-yard quarterback draw from Kevin Craft. By the way, hitting the quarterback is off limits in the scrimmage and was on a 24-yard drive.
-- Terrence Austin returned a punt 61 yards for a TD in a non-tackling drill, but was the No. 1 punt returner used.
-- DE Korey Bosworth was the only player injured. He sprained his left ankle, but he didn't believe it was serious.

It was not an offensive explosion, but at least the offensive outscored the defense (14-9) in the only major scrimmage of training camp.
The offensive line had trouble containing UCLA's front seven, but Kevin Craft did settle down after a poor start to play adequately.
Afterward, Bruins coach Rich Neuheisel said the running game needed to be markedly better in two weeks against Tennessee, but he did compliment Craft's ability to not get rattled by a poor start.
UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow said the offense was fine because the defense was playing with eight men close to the line of scrimmage much of the night, and the quarterbacks were not given the freedom to check out of plays to counter the eight-man box.
There were also a few interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown by Kyle Bosworth, and a fumbled snap that ended backup Chris Forcier's first drive.
Not even special teams were immune as Kai Forbarth and Jimmy Rotstein each had field goal attempts blocked.

UCLA received six votes in the preseason AP poll, which was released today. Here is the full poll:

UCLA receiver Dominique Johnson is not dressed for today's scrimmage. I'm told his body is feeling battered from practice, so he is sitting out.
It means no Johnson, WR Gavin Ketchum or TE Logan Paulsen for the scrimmage.

Here is an audio track from Friday of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel talking about the health of the offensive line, and also about the number of concussions the Bruins are dealing with in training camp.
Bonus Neuheisel.mp3

Wow, my fingers are tired (no jokes). Here is the last set of answers for this week. Also, I will have updates from the scrimmage tonight and all weekend.

Here is the story I wrote about UCLA running back Kahlil Bell, along with a notebook, that ran in today's paper.
One note on the Bell story is I asked him whether or not a cadaver was used in repairing his ACL injury.
"They used my patella tendon,'' Bell said. "I wanted it to be all me. I trust my body over someone else's body."

Here is the 13th set of answers as the Q&A marathon continues:

Happy Saturday morning everyone. There were such an incredible number of questions I had to carry over the answers to today, and I will have three sets of answers leading up to tonight's crucial scrimmage at Drake Stadium.
So, as a continuation to what we started Friday, here is the 12th set of answers:

Here is the last set of answers for today. Because of the incredible number of questions this week, and because of practice reports, this is the last set of answers for today.
I will have more answers tomorrow, leading up to the scrimmage at Drake Stadium. If any news breaks tonight, though, I will have it up on the blog.
Now, here is the 11th set of answers:

Here is the 10th set of answers:

Friday's post-practice interview session with UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel began with some chuckles because of what transpired at practice during special teams drills. Special teams coach Frank Gansz Jr. had a microphone attached to his shirt so his instructions were played over the loud speakers.
So, at the beginning of the interview, Neuheisel was asked why it was done.

Friday Neuheisel.mp3

Here is the list of players who will not participate in Saturday's scrimmage:
Barbosa, Luc - sprained right knee
Carter, Reggie - concussion
Coleman, Derrick - surgery for right meniscus
Edwards, Josh - right foot
Embree, Taylor - sore right shoulder
Harris, Mike - right high ankle sprain
Ketchum, Gavin - sore right shoulder
Love, Glenn - concussion
Paulsen, Logan - concussion
Schmitt, Mike - right ankle sprain
Ward, Jess - still no contact from left knee surgery
Woods, E.J. - concussion

Here is the ninth set of answers:

It was a low impact practice as UCLA readies for its Saturday scrimmage, which will begin at 5 p.m. at Drake Stadium.
UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said the scrimmage will be 60 to 80 plays, admittedly light, because of the low numbers of available players, especially on the offensive line.
Neuheisel said he was hoping the offense gained "confidence," if anything out of the scrimmage.
Also, Gary Beban, the only Heisman winner in UCLA history, stopped by practice to chat with the Bruins.

Here is the eighth set of answers:

Here is group No. 7:

Tight end Logan Paulsen and safety Glenn Love are both sitting out practice with injuries. While I need to check on Love's injury (I will have an update later), Paulsen has a concussion, which he received on a clean tackle by Akeem Ayers during a full contract drill in Thursday's night practice.
Paulsen's concussion will keep him out, at least until mid next week based on new protocol for treating concussions.
As I understand it, a player must be symptom free for 24 hours before he can have aerobic activity. If he remains symptom free, he can be exerted on the field the next day. If he remains symptom free, he can go through a non-contact practice the next day.
And if he is symptom free after the non-contact drill, he can take part in a full practice the next day.
In short, if a player gets a concussion during a game on Saturday, the first time he can go through a full practice is the following Thursday.
By the way, middle linebacker Reggie Carter and E.J. Woods remain spectators at practice because of concussions
And by my count, it means WRs Taylor Embree and Gavin Ketchum, Carter, Paulsen, OL Mike Harris, Woods and LB Mike Schmitt all will be out of Saturday's scrimmage.
On a positive note, QB Osaar Rasshan and RT Nate Chandler returned to practice today.

Here is the sixth grouping:

Here is the fifth set of answers:

UCLA sent out an updated practice schedule for the rest of training camp. As a reminder, practice will be closed to the public beginning Aug. 21.

Here is the schedule for the rest of training camp:
Friday, August 15 - 3:00-5:15 p.m.
Saturday, August 16 - 5:00 p.m. (Scrimmage at Drake Stadium)
Monday, August 18 - 9:00-11:00 a.m. and 5:00-7:15 p.m.
Tuesday, August 19 - 3:00-5:15 p.m.
Wednesday, August 20 - 9:00-11:00 a.m. and 5:00-7:15 p.m.

Here is the fourth set of answers:

Here is the third set of answers:

I spoke to UCLA and was told the school sold 46,000 season tickets so far and are about 1,300 ahead of last year's school record of 49,000 season tickets sold.

Here is the second set of answers:

Thanks for all the questions this week. It was quite amazing how many came in this week (more than 115 responses and more than 150 questions), and because of it, I will have to split it over two days.
That said, I will have at least 10 sets of answers today, as well as reports from practice. I will also post answers Saturday morning, and have updates about Saturday's scrimmage.
Now, onto the first set of answers:

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper.
Also, here is a quote from UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel on his decision to hire a special teams coach, rather than have a position coach also coach special teams.
"The normal routine is they split (special teams) between coaches, so one coach is coaching gunners, another coach is coaching this,'' Neuheisel said. "With Frank (Gansz Jr.) being the consistent voice, and the concentration of the meetings all being from one guy, I think you have a chance to latch on to some fundamentals and some techniques that will serve us well.''

Forgot to mention Corona Centennial High defensive end Will Sutton was at Thursday night's practice. UCLA continues to pay close attention to him, but is yet to offer.

In case you didn't listen closely to the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel after Thursday's morning practice, this is what he had to say about quarterback Chris Forcier.
"This has been said to (Forcier) countless times - he has to be urgent about what he's doing,'' Neuheisel said. "He can't walk up to the line of scrimmage and not do the right thing that he's been coached to do. You can't trust him there yet. But, to his credit, when he goes up, he does make things happen.''

Here is UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's media briefing following Thursday's night session practice.
Thursday night Neuheisel.mp3

The defense controlled both sessions of today's practice, and it did not end well for the offense as Kevin Craft was intercepted twice in 11-on-11 contact drills. Still, his knowledge of the offense and propensity to make fewer mistakes than Chris Forcier keeps him ahead in the quarterback derby.
And what would a practice be at this point without another injury (or three)? Tight end Logan Paulsen left the field after getting slammed to the turf by linebacker Akeem Ayers. Paulsen banged the back of his head on the turf, and may have suffered a concussion. More should be known Friday.
Also, backup linebacker Steve Sloan was slowed by an ankle injury.
UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel also said receivers Taylor Embree (shoulder) and Gavin Ketchum (shoulder) would be out for about week, meaning both will miss Saturday's scrimmage.

Before heading in for surgery to repair his broken foot, I spoke with UCLA quarterback Ben Olson about whether he would seek a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA.
Basically (and as expected) Olson said he wouldn't qualify because you have to miss two complete seasons because of injury, and his injuries are spliced across three seasons.
"I talked to (Patrick) Cowan about it, because he looked at it, and you have to miss two full years,'' Olson said. "Plus, I plan on coming back this season. I'll be back this season. You can count on that."

During the last two seasons there have been questions about whether UCLA has the receivers to stretch the field, and open up the passing game underneath the secondary.
I asked fifth-year senior receiver Marcus Everett to give me his impressions of whether the Bruins have anyone to stretch the field.
"I think we have some guys that can get down the field,'' he said. "I think I can do it. I think Terrence (Austin) has that ability.''

Going out of the box a bit here with a baseball update as UCLA lost its team MVP from the last two seasons to the professional ranks. Shortstop Brandon Crawford signed with the San Francisco Giants.
Here is the release from UCLA:

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel meeting with the media after Thursday's morning practice session. In it, he discusses why Kevin Craft is leading in the quarterback competition.
Thursday's morning practice.mp3

QB Kevin Craft continued to take exclusive reps with UCLA's first team offense in Thursday's morning practice, and coach Rick Neuheisel acknowledged Craft leads Chris Forcier in the quarterback competition.
Neuheisel said the primary reason is Craft has a better understanding of the offense, and Foricer isn't approaching the learned aspect of the offense with as much urgency as the Bruins would like.
Still, the play at quarterback wasn't great this morning. Craft began an 11-on-11 drill by having two passes batted down and then was sacked on the third down play. And Neuheisel continues to stress the importance of having a fast tempo in practice, and imploring the offense to fight through fatigue.
In other news, freshman running back Derrick Coleman will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery Friday to repair torn meniscus, which could sent him on his way to a red-shirt season. He is expected to miss two to three weeks.
Receiver Taylor Embree has a bruised shoulder, but shouldn't miss extended time. Also, running back Kahlil Bell sat out the morning practice, but told me his ailing hip flexor isn't a problem and he will practice tonight.

Here is the notebook I wrote for this morning's paper. With middle linebacker Reggie Carter out with a concussion, I spoke to backup middle linebacker Steve Sloan about the importance of getting reps with the first team.
"I'm getting there,'' Sloan said. "Coach (DeWayne) Walker puts so much pressure on the 2s to perform like the 1s that he's not going to let up because you're with the 2s. He's pushing the 2s harder than the 1s."

From UCLA:
Receiver Taylor Embree has a sore shoulder and may undergo x-rays Thursday.

This is from former UCLA wing Chace Stanback, who is transferring to UNLV.
"All I wanted was to be wanted,'' he said. "That's all I want."

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel after Wednesday's press briefing. At the end, it may not be audible, but Neuheisel was asked about freshman receiver Nelson Rosario.
Wednesday's practice.mp3

The biggest development from practice today is quarterback Kevin Craft took almost every snap with the first team offense, a sign he is the leader to be the starter. Chris Forcier took most of the snaps with the second team.
A couple other quickies is receiver Taylor Embree left practice late with a left shoulder injury, but the extent was not known.
Running back Kahlil Bell sat out practice with a sore hip flexor, but I talked to him afterward and he said he felt ok and should be ready to go Thursday.
Defensive tackle Chase Moline missed practice because of illness, receiver Dominique Johnson sat out with a hip pointer and quarterback Osaar Rasshan did not practice because of a sore knee.
And there is also another position change. Jeff Miller is now at tight end after spending his first two seasons in the program on the defensive line.

The injuries are beginning to mount for UCLA as right tackle Nate Chandler is dressed for practice, but his right foot is in a walking boot.
Also, freshman receiver Jerry Johnson is not practicing because of an ankle injury, running back Kahlil Bell is not practicing and quarterback Osaar Rasshan, who tweaked his knee Tuesday, is not on the practice field.
I will have more later.

There is plenty of movement going on with the offensive line and players moving around. In talking with offensive line coach Bob Palcic, it seems the only two positions set are Micah Reed at center and Micah Kia at left tackle.
In fact, there is a daily shift going on, and when I get out to practice today I expect to see a different combination than I saw Tuesday.
That said, I know one of the things that kept guard Darius Savage and tackle Nate Chandler off the first team earlier this week was lack of knowledge about their assignments. I know that is something Palcic does not tolerate.
The other three in the mix for starting spots are Scott Glicksberg and Sonny Tevaga at guard and Nick Ekbatani at right tackle.

Here is the notebook I wrote that was in today's paper.
Also, it is time for questions, so send some in and i will post the answers throughout Friday.

UCLA moved defensive tackle Jess Ward to the offensive line, and he will work out at left guard once he returns from a knee injury in the next 10 days or so.
Also, a UCLA official said a decision is yet be made on whether or not running back Derrick Coleman will have surgery on torn meniscus in his right knee.

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's press briefing following Tuesday's evening practice.
Tuesday night.mp3

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said after the evening practice he was pleased with the offensive tempo and the way the offense worked in both sessions today, but what would be a post-practice get together without another injury update.
Neuheisel said freshman running back Derrick Coleman has torn meniscus in his knee, but he was unsure if arthroscopic surgery was going to be performed or if Coleman was going to try and play through it. More information on that could come tonight.
Also, x-rays on linebacker Josh Edwards' foot came back normal, and Edwards was in uniform and should be back at full practice soon.
There was also a lot of work done on special teams, which Neuheisel considers vital since he believes UCLA will play a lot of close games this season.

Much like spring practice when freshman Taylor Embree made a name for himself by catching nearly everything he touched, it has continued through the first week of training camp.
"He has a natural feel for the game,'' UCLA receivers coach Reggie Moore said. "He's making a play every day, or two or three. He's got great hands, a natural knack for football.''

UCLA's offensive line is ever-changing, it seems, by I found the second-team lineup used in the morning practice interesting.
It was RT Nate Chandler, RG Darius Savage, C Jake Dean, LF Jeff Baca and LT Brandon Bennett.
From my understanding, part of the reason Chandler and Savage are not running with the first team is both are struggling with their assignments.
The first team offensive line is RT Nick Ekbatani, RG Sonny Tevaga, C Micah Reed, LG Scott Glicksberg and LT Micah Kia.

I am trying to get the audio clarity to be better. I know it is a bit frustrating, but I am working on it. I made a few adjustments to the upload settings, so hopefully this will be better.
So please let me know if this is better. Thanks.
Tuesday morning.mp3

QBs Kevin Craft and Chris Forcier took nearly every one of the reps during the morning practice (Osaar Rasshan took a few), and Craft was much more impressive.
In fact, UCLA began its red-zone offense practice today, and Craft complete his first three passes and looked sharp. Meanwhile, Forcier fumbled his first snap and made a few bad throws, but did make a few plays with his scrambling ability.
RB Aundre Dean finally got some reps, and made one nice run on a cutback, but Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel said Dean was getting reps because Kahlil Bell was sitting out the morning practice.
MLB Reggie Carter is out at least until Friday with a concussion, so Steve Sloan got the reps with the first team.
Also, Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel said Jimmy Rotstein and Jeff Locke were vying for kickoff duties. I asked if PK Kai Forbath would be in the mix, and Neuheisel said he would.
By the way, former Bruins defensive lineman Kenneth Lombard is working with the defensive line as a student assistant.

Want to know what it's like to be at practice, but can't make it? Well, part of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's approach is to play music during pre-practice stretching, and also during the latter part of practice.
Some of the tunes have been by Metallica and Willie Nelson, but he also is playing a fight song or two. Among those to blare over the speakers was this one:

I spoke to UCLA running back Kahlil Bell about it after Monday's practice.
"I didn't even know that was the fight song,'' Bell said. "I'm concentrating on picking up the blitzes. I'm not worried about what fight song is playing in the bleachers."

Here is a column written by Steve Dilbeck about UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow and the quarterback situation and the notebook I wrote off Monday's practice.
Also, UCLA is beginning its first of two practices today, and for the first time linebacker Josh Edwards (foot) is dressed and ready for practice. DL Jeff Miller and RB Kahlil Bell are not practicing, but this will be a common theme for Bell. Coming off an ACL surgery, he will practice only once when UCLA has double days, which means he will be in uniform for tonight's session.

UCLA football commits Richard Brehaut (Los Osos quarterback) and Todd Golper (Arcadia linebacker were at practice, as was Antonio Brown, who is listed as a defensive tackle at Mt. San Jacinto. From my understanding, UCLA is monitoring Brown, and not considered serious lookers at this point.

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel after Monday's practice. As you will hear, he was not thrilled with how the offense practiced.
003_C_007_Recorder.mp3

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel was not pleased with the offense's practice today, saying they needed to understand the tempo and pace had to be high every practice. He said RB Kahlil Bell and TE Logan Paulsen were strong leaders, but more were needed.
On the field, Chris Forcier appeared to out-perform Kevin Craft is what quickly became a two-quarterback race.
OL coach Bob Palcic continued to tinker with the offensive line by taking left guard Darius Savage and right tackle Nate Chandler off the first team. Scott Glicksberg played at left guard and Nick Ekbatani was at right tackle. It left Sonny Tevaga at right guard.
Also, middle linebacker Reggie Carter left practice early after a collision with Bell. Carter was feeling a little woozy.
As a side note, I will on 830-AM at 7:20 p.m. today in Los Angeles.

OL Mike Harris has a sprained right ankle and will be out a few weeks. It is being termed a high ankle sprain.
Quarterback Ben Olson is here, but on crutches as he readies for surgery.
The good news for the Bruins is many of the players who sat out the last few days are back and dressed for practicing, including DL Jeff Miller, DT Brian Price and DT Jerzy Sierwierski.

I'm hearing one of the top wide receiver/cornerback prospects in the 2010 class may visit UCLA today. Robert Woods, out of Gardena Serra High, is supposed to be on campus this week, and I'm hearing today could be the day.

Here is the UCLA notebook I wrote in today's paper, with much of it focused on the offensive line.
Another thing Bruins offensive coordinator Norm Chow and offensive line coach Bob Palcic told me is they are pleased with the development of the line through the first week of training camp.
"We're better than we were when we finished in the spring,'' Palcic said. "We're better run blockers. We're better (pass) protectors. We have a better understanding of the offense."

Here is the story I wrote on UCLA's quarterback situation that was in today's paper.

Here is a story from the Las Vegas Review Journal about former UCLA wing Chace Stanback committing to UNLV after a visit this weekend.

Former UCLA wing Chace Stanback committed to UNLV after visiting this weekend. Under NCAA transfer rules, Stanback will have to sit out the season before being eligible for the 2009-10 season.

UCLA quarterback Ben Olson will undergo surgery Tuesday to repair the broken bone in his right foot. He will have a screw placed in the foot and is expected to miss at least eight weeks.

Here is UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's media briefing after Sunday's night practice:
Sunday's night practice.mp3

What I'm hearing is the front-runners for the quarterbacking position are Kevin Craft and Chris Forcier. Both had their moments today, making several nice passes but also making poor decisions that resulted in turnovers.

UCLA couldn't escape another injury during Sunday's night practice. Backup offensive tackle Mike Harris was carted off the field with a right ankle injury, and coach Rick Neuheisel said he was unsure of the severity of it.
"I'm a little nervous about Mike Harris," he said. "Hopefully, we'll get some good news."
Meanwhile, Neuheisel said the contenders for the primary contenders for the quarterback job are Kevin Craft, Chris Forcier and Osaar Rasshan.
Neuheisel added he was disappointed to hear Ben Olson would be out at least eight weeks, but said it was possible Olson could catch up offensively because UCLA has two bye weeks in November.
Also, RB Audre Dean (neck), WR Nelson Rosario (stomach), DT Brian Price (possible concussion) and DT Jerzy Siewierski (dizziness) each sat out the evening session, but Neuheisel said each could be back Monday.

Here is the story I wrote for Dailynews.com on UCLA quarterback Ben Olson's injury:

UCLA quarterback Ben Olson will miss at least eight weeks after breaking the fifth metatarsal in his right foot during a non-contact drill Saturday.

It is the same injury Olson (Thousand Oaks) suffered in the spring.

Here is audio from UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel after the Sunday morning practice. The Bruins still did not know about the health of quarterback Ben Olson, but I should have something later today on it.
Anyway, here is the audio.

004_D_002_Recorder.mp3

Taylor Embree doesn't have eye-popping speed, but he has tremendous hands and showed them off with a sensation one-handed catch along the sideline. He also made several nice catches during the two-minute drill toward the end of practice.
Running back Milton Knox has looked good in his limited reps, but Kahlil Bell and Raymond Carter are getting most of the carries at running back.
UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said he will give Bell the afternoon practice off as a precautionary measure. Bell is returning from ACL surgery.
Also, DT Jerzy Siewierski and RG Scott Glicksberg returned to practice, although Glicksber ran with the second team.
I will have Neuheisel's audio up on the site within the next hour, word from the afternoon practice and the latest on quarterback Ben Olson's foot injury.

Cornerback Tony Dye has been moved to safety as UCLA looks to settle its secondary depth. The one freshman who is impressing the most is Rahim Moore, who may wind up swinging between safety and corner, with nickel responsibilities mixed in.
Also, Nick Ekbatani, who began camp at right tackle, split time with the first team between tackle and right guard. That allowed converted tight end Nate Chandler to spend time with the first unit at right tackle. Chandler also spent time with the second team at right tackle.
Jake Dean also is taking snaps at guard after moving from center.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said he still didn't have an update on injured quarterback Ben Olson because the x-rays have not been read. It is expected UCLA will have news on Olson's injured right foot later today.
The Bruins started double days today, and the development at quarterback was Kevin Craft and Chris Forcier took most of the reps. Surprisingly, Osaar Rasshan also got a significant amount of reps, while Kevin Prince received fewer and Nick Crissman had very few.
From talking to various folks within the program, I'm getting information that offensive coordinator Norm Chow and Neuheisel aren't sure which direction to go with the quarterback, but Craft and Forcier are the leading options.

A UCLA spokesperson said a scan on quarterback Ben Olson's injured right foot was inconclusive, so he will have x-rays today. An MRI is also possible.

Here is what UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel had to say following Saturday's practice. Most of the discussion centered around the injury suffered by Bruins quarterback Ben Olson.
Saturday's post practice.mp3

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said quarterback Ben Olson re-injured his surgically-repaired foot during a non-contact drill midway through practice. Olson is undergoing x-rays, and could have an MRI on Sunday.
Neuheisel said it was on the same play Olson broke the fifth metatarsal in his foot in the spring.
The extent of the injury is not yet known, but Olson was carted off the field.
Kevin Craft took the snaps with the first team, and Kevin Prince and Chris Foricer had second-team reps. In fact, Forcier looked sharp late in the practice and continued to get snaps.

UCLA quarterback Ben Olson began practice, but was not on the field for the end of it while all the other quarterbacks took reps. I should have more about it in the next 30 minutes because we are readying to speak with coach Rick Neuheisel.

UCLA QB Ben Olson is back at practice after missing Friday's practice with a sore foot, and right guard Scott Glicksberg is back and dressed after missing much of the last three games because of illness.
Also, defensive tackle Brian Price, who left Friday's practice with dizziness, is not dressed and defensive tackle Jeff Miller continues to be unavailable because of an ankle injury.
By the way, one thing I didn't mention was UCLA worked on punt returns Friday, and the trio of Taylor Embree, Courtney Viney and Ryan Graves were the returners. It still appears Terrence Austin will be the punt returner, but he was out of practice so all he did was stand by the punt returners and take in the action.

In case anyone didn't hear, there was a stabbing death of an American at the Olympics in China. The victim, Todd Bachman, is the father of former UCLA All-American and 2004 Olympian Wiz (Elisabeth) Bachman.
Here is a release about it, courtesy of UCLA.

Here is the UCLA football notebook I wrote in today's paper.
In talking to Bruins safety Rahim Moore, he, like almost every freshman, said the biggest adjustment was the speed of the college game. But he wasn't talking about the plays.
"I was covering a deep ball, and was jogging back and by the time I got to the huddle, the net play was being run,'' Moore said. "That took some adjusting, but I have it now. The speed is so much different."

The Houston Chronicle reported UCLA men's basketball will open the season against Prairie View A&M in the first round of the Coaches vs. Cancer tournament on Nov. 12 at Pauley Pavilion.
This is something I heard earlier in the week, but was told it was not a done deal. As of now, it is still subject to change. The two others schools in UCLA's pod is yet to be known.
Of course, don't expect any big time schools in the pod since the goal of the tournament is to get the four schools all hosting pods -- UCLA, Duke, Michigan and Southern Illinois -- to get to the semifinals at Madison Square Garden.

Yikes, that was a lot of questions. Thanks for them all, and hope the answers were of some use. Remember, UCLA has its first practice in full pads Saturday, so check back over the weekend to see what is going on.
Now, on to the last set of answers:

Patrick Hall, a safety out of St. Bonaventure High of Ventura and a USC commit, attended practice.
Also, freshman Sean Westgate (Oak Park High) moved to linebacker after spending the first three practices as safety.

Here is the 10th set of answers. There will be one more set after this.

This is UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's media briefing after Friday's practice.
002_B_007_Recorder.mp3