Answers, Part II

Here is the second set of answers:

How does Ketchum’s absence in the UT game affect the rotation at WR? Is it now going to only be Johnson, Everett, and Austin or will some of the freshmen now play more than backup roles?
I don’t think it affects it that much. Ketchum was going to play a complementary role, but his experience would be welcomed. The freshmen were going to play anyway, so maybe a few of them get a couple of more plays.

Do you have a general sense for how the UCLA coaching staff feels they are recruiting in basketball this year – if they’re happy/concerned/anything else with the direction it’s going?
They’re pleased with it at this point. I know they would like to land either Tyler Honeycutt or Michael Snear (Abdul Gaddy and Avery Bradley are also on the list, but I suspect less likely to go to UCLA), and are also looking at some big men. But so far, my understanding is they are pleased with recruiting.

How do you see the Safety poistion being handled after the return of Brett Lockett? Do you think Moore could take his job away?
Lockett will likely become the starting strong safety, and Moore will move over the free safety and split time with Aaron Ware. Moore will also play in nickel situations, allowing Lockett and Ware to play the safety positions.

What do you think will be the top 5 college basketball programs for the next decade?
Very subjective, and for those who know me, prognostication isn’t my favorite thing. However, I will say:
1) North Carolina
2) Kansas
3) UCLA
4) Georgetown
5) Texas

As far as our offensive line woes, is a lack of strength, intelligence, or skill? Because as far as offensive line “skill” goes, it seems as though all linemen need is to be strong and know their assignments. What seems to be the problem?
It may be too early to tell, but overall, I think it is athleticism and experience. And skill fits into that description. Another problem is the injury factor. UCLA lost a two-year starter in Aleksey Lanis and it’s second-best tackle in Sean Sheller. Those are tough things to overcome.

I know it’s only junior college. But how did Craft throw 175 million yards and 44 TD’s last year at Mt. Sac, but can’t seem to muster a single TD pass in a Division 1 scrimmage? The guy MUST be decent. What seems to be his problem thus far?
Comparing JC numbers to how a player will perform in the Pac-10 is like saying a kid who dominates on the Idaho JV field will dominate Texas’ 5A high school division. It’s not like comparing apples and oranges, it’s like comparing apples and drywall. …But in a nutshell, he throws too many interceptions, and his accuracy needs improving.

Do you know if any of the top OL target recruits are more interested now because they see early playing time as a possibility?
They were being recruited from the get-go with the idea of being able to play early, and that hasn’t changed. Now, if these kids see UCLA’s offensive line struggle in the beginning of the season, it may alter there stance a little more, but right now these kids don’t know how good or bad the offensive line will be.

Where do we stand with Shaquelle Evans and Kennard?
In a waiting mode. My sources tell me UCLA continues to feel good about Evans, but Kennard is going to be a tough get. However, I think he may be visiting UCLA unofficially soon.