October 2008 Archives

I wrote for Saturday's paper that defensive end Tom Blake had season-ending sports hernia surgery Wednesday, and also that the plan is to red-shirt linebacker Kyle Bosworth (knee).

Folks, this is the last set of answers for today. If anything breaks tonight, I will have it here. But I need to spend some time with Spider-man and Squirt, and see if I can "borrow" some of their Halloween candy.
I will have more answers Saturday. Now, here is the 15th set:

Here is the 14th set:

Here is No. 13:

Here is the 12th set of answers:

Here is the 11th set of answers:

Here is an update on UCLA's men's basketball players dealing with injuries, courtesy of UCLA:
UCLA Men's Basketball Injury Report (Oct. 31, 2008).

Alfred Aboya, C, Sr.
Has a sprained right ankle and will miss practice on Friday (Oct. 31) and Saturday (Nov. 1) but is probable for the Bruins' first exhibition game against Cal Baptist on Monday (Nov. 3).

Nikola Dragovic, F, Jr.
Still has a cyst in his left foot and ankle and practiced about 50% of the practice on Friday (Oct. 31). We will continue to increase his duration and intensity at practice and see how he responds. He is doubtful for the Bruins' first exhibition game against Cal Baptist on Monday (Nov. 3).

Malcolm Lee, G, Fr.
Has a strained right groin and has missed the last three practices (Oct. 29-31). He is likely to practice on Saturday (Nov. 1) and is probable for the Bruins' first exhibition game against Cal Baptist on Monday (Nov. 3).

Here is the 10th set:

Here is the ninth set:

I know a number of people asked what is going on with Lot H and the USC game at the Rose Bowl.
Well, UCLA tells me the only way to park in Lot H for THAT game is to pre-purchase a parking pass, and those passes are available only to season ticket holders. And the person whose name is on the account is the person who can purchase the pass.
Otherwise, if you do not have a Lot H tag, parking will be on the golf course.

Here is the eighth set:

X-rays on UCLA hoops center Alfred Aboya were negative, and he is diagnosed with a sprain. He will be held out of practice for the next two days, but he is expected to be ready for Monday's exhibition game against Cal Baptist.

Here is the seventh helping:

Here is the sixth set:

I am told UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel will again use a helicopter to traverse the Southland and avoid Friday traffic as he recruits today.
(As was the case last time, I am told a booster pays for the use of the helicopter)
*This post was edited

Here is the fifth set:

Here is the fourth set:

By the way, here is the football notebook from today's paper, which talks about Aundre Dean and a possible transfer:
Now, here is the third set of answers:

Here is the second set of answers:

Happy Halloween to all!!!
Folks, it may be an off week and UCLA is coming off a disappointing loss, but it hasn't stemmed the interest of the Q&A session. I will have at least 15 sets of answers today, and here is the first set:

Here is a story that ran in today's paper about the renovation project at Pauley Pavilion. I know some folks have asked questions about the cost and are speculating, but the current cost of the project is exactly as stated in the story $175-$185 million. And that is the estimate UCLA is receiving with current construction costs and doing every whistle and bell in the project.
And there is no hard and fast time-line for when the renovation will begin.
Also, here is a story I wrote about UCLA being the pick to four-peat as Pac-10 champions.

UCLA coaches will hit the recruiting road these next two days, taking a hard look at the high schools Friday and the junior college Saturday.
Here is what I've pieced together as far as where UCLA will be:
Head coach Rick Neuheisel -- Narbonne vs. Washington, Los Osos of Rancho Cucamonga vs. Rancho Cucamonga and Cajon of San Bernardino vs. Pacfic.
Among the other high school games UCLA coaches are expected to check in at are Hart of Newhall at Valencia, Lancaster at Highland, Cathedral of San Diego vs. Henry of San Diego, Escondido vs. Lacosta Canyon of Carlsbad, Serra of San Diego vs. Point Loma, Centennial of Corona vs. John North of Riverside, Colton vs. San Gorgonio, Birmingham vs. Cleveland and Redlands East Valley vs. Miller of Fontana.
On Saturday's JUCO docket are trips to Bakersfield vs. Ventura, Pierce vs. L.A. Valley, Mt. SAC vs. El Camino, Colllege of the Desert vs. Cerritos, Compton vs. L.A. Harbor, Riverside vs. Chaffey, Palomar vs. Fullerton and Foothill vs. Santa Rosa.

UCLA's administration has pledged $25 million for the Pauley Pavilion renovation project. I have some other numbers about the renovation in Friday's paper.

I talked to freshman tailback Aundre Dean, who was non-committal about returning to UCLA for the 2009 season. I have more in Friday's paper.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said he was pleased with the way practice went today, and said the staff will recruit high schools Friday and hit junior colleges Saturday as evaluation continues.
I'll post more information tomorrow on what schools I'm hearing UCLA may visit, but one interesting one is I'm hearing Neuheisel will be checking out former UCLA commit Marlon Pollard, a defensive back who is a Notre Dame commit playing at Cajon High of Sna Bernardino.
On the injury front, receiver Nelson Rosario was on crutches and in a walking boot after injuring his right ankle Wednesday, but Neuheisel said he still expected Rosario to be ready to practice Tuesday.
Also, offensive coordinator Norm Chow was not at practice because he was heading to Hawaii to recruit.

UCLA hoops coach Ben Howland said Alfred Aboya was the starting center, but if he was in the game with freshmen J'mison Morgan or Drew Gordon, he would play power forward while one of the freshmen played center.

I received an email from Yvonne Johnson, the mother of Pop Warner quarterback Ramon Johnson. She brought him to UCLA practice last week to chat with Derrick Coleman. Both wear hearing aids, and Yvonne Johnson thought if she could get Ramon to talk to Coleman, it might inspire him to wear them while he was playing football, which he previously wouldn't do.
It worked.
I'm told that Coleman was told Ramon wore his hearing aids during practice the day after they talked and during his game Saturday, and that Coleman smiled.
Ramon also sent a letter to Coach Nueheisel. I have that and I'm still trying to figure out how to post it so that you can see it in Ramon's handwriting. If not, I'll just copy it on a blog.
Here's an excerpt from Yvonne Johnson's email:

I planned on doing the light-hitting Q&A with receiver Nelson Rosario, until he left practice early with a sprained ankle and did not come back. Therefore, this week's subject is freshman tight end Cory Harkey

1.Facebook or my space?
My space
2. Favorite tunes before a game?
Rap. Fort Minor.
3. Favorite place to eat on campus or in Westwood?
In-n-Out. Double-Double.
4. What professional football player to you liken yourself to?
Jeremy Shockey.
5. Favorite class at UCLA?
Art and architecture.
6. Worst Halloween costume you've worn?
Spider-man.
7. At the goalline, fade or slant?
I'm going to have to go with fade.
8. Sarah Palin. Hot or not?
I'm going to go with not.
9. What's your nickname?
Back at high school they call me "Franchise."
10. Basketball or football?
I'm going to go with football.

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Ben Howland at Pac-10 media day:
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UCLA coach Ben Howland just spent his 10 minutes at the podium. The highlights:
He's not a fan of the 3-point line moving back a foot, saying it will cause more teams to play zone defense and "make the game boring" because offenses will be more deliberate.
The Pauley Pavilion project could go in front of the regents in the next few weeks, and fund-raising could become more public then. (He also hoped the stock market rises a few thousand points).
And re-iterating what he said yesterday, his starting lineup, while subject to change, is pretty set with C Alfred Aboya, PF James Keefe, SF Josh Shipp, SG Jrue Holiday and PG Darren Collison.

Arizona State coach Herb Sendek, USC coach Tim Floyd and Washington State coach Tony Bennett have each spent part of their media session speaking well of UCLA, and each said the Bruins deserve to be picked to win the Pacific-10.
"They're the measuring stick right now,'' Floyd said.

The first major men's basketball poll is out, and UCLA is ranked No. 4. It is the USA Today/ESPN poll, which has North Carolina as a unanimous No. 1. The poll is listed below:

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper, which has an injury update and also coach Rick Neuheisel's concern about practice. And, here is the audio of what Neuheisel said to the media after the practice.
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UCLA was picked by the media to win its fourth straight Pacific-10 conference title in the poll released today at media day. Here is the poll:
1. UCLA (37)
2. Arizona State (1)
3. USC
4. Arizona
5. Washington
6. Washington State
7. Oregon
8. California
9. Stanford
10. Oregon State
*First place votes in parentheses

Darren Collison, Alfred Aboya, Josh Shipp, James Keefe and Jrue Holiday would start, Ben Howland said.
This has been the expected starting lineup all along.

Forgot to mention that injured quarterback Patrick Cowan spoke to the players only after practice to tell them what a privilege it is to still play, so they need to make sure they give a complete effort.
The message was that Cowan cannot play, so the players that are healthy need to make sure they are giving their best effort.

Receiver Nelson Rosario left the field with a twisted ankle and was getting examined by doctors, but coach Rick Neuheisel said he didn't think it was serious.
LB Reggie Carter was in a no-hit jersey, but x-rays on his ribs were negative and he will play Nov. 8 against Oregon State.
Neuheisel said LT Jeff Baca (hamstring) would be back at practice Sunday and should play against Oregon State, and he added DE Reggie Stokes (knee surgery) could be available for a few plays against the Beavers.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel had some very interesting comments after practice today. I'll have the audio up tomorrow morning, but here is a taste.
"Still way too many mistakes of things that should be rock solid by now,'' he said. "We have to get our guys to understand this is a little bit more important than it is currently been treated. Until that happens, we're going to struggle to improve."

Malcolm Lee said he injured strained his right groin in practice yesterday. He wasn't sure how he did it, but he felt some tension when he was stretching. He could be back to practice as early as today.

Here are the 5-on-5 teams Ben Howland was using in today's practice.
Gold = Darren Collison, Drew Gordon, Mustafa Abdul-Hamid, Alfred Aboya and Jrue Holiday.
Blue = Jerime Anderson, James Keefe, Michael Roll, Josh Shipp and J'Mison ``Bobo'' Morgan.

Some observations so far...
Collison and Holiday have played well together. They were also able to break the fullcourt press with ease. After breaking the press on one possession, Collison had an open shot, although it was well behind the 3-point line, and he passed to an open Holiday, who drove and scored on a floater on the baseline.

Alfred Aboya fell and grabbed his left foot, which was a very brief scare for the Bruins, but he got up right away, walked around and returned to halfcourt defense.

Michael Roll made an open 3-point shot, prompting the yellow team to run sprints.

Morgan has made some nice plays - including an offensive rebound in halfcourt offense and he deflected a Collison shot in the lane. You can hear the name ''Bobo'' by Howland or assistant Donny Daniels nearly every play...whether it's for something good or bad.

Malcolm Lee sustained a strained right groin in today's practice and is out the rest of today and tomorrow. He's expected to return Friday.

Nikola Dragovic was expected to begin practicing last Thursday, but his left foot is still in a boot. Today is one of the rare days that UCLA basketball practice is open to the media and a few boosters and season ticket-holders, so I'll have more from practice later.

UCLA's coaching staff will use Friday and Saturday to go out recruiting, and one of the stops will be Hawaii. Offensive coordinator Norm Chow will see commits Stanley Hasiak of Kapolei (Hawaii) High and tailback Dalton Hilliard and receiver Roby Toma of Punahou of Honolulu.
And, yes, he will also see linebacker Manti Te'o of Punahou

Send in your questions, and I will have answers Friday.
By the way, here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper, which includes Reggie Carter's injury and the lack of movement on the quarterback situation.

The NBA season kicked off Tuesday and a bunch of former Bruins are in the league, but former center and fan favorite Lorenzo Mata-Real is plying his trade in Mexico. He is playing for Halcones de Xalapa.
However, Mata-Real broke his right leg (fibula) over the weekend and will out six to eight weeks. The team was 14-0 when he was injured.

A little late for some question suggestions, but this week I will do a getting to know ...segment with freshman receiver Nelson Rosario. So, send in one off-the-beaten-track question, and I will chose 10 and post the Q&A Thursday.

Bellarmine Prep (Tacoma, Wash.) point guard Abdul Gaddy committed to Washington, and his father, Abdul Sr., said it came down to familiarity with the Huskies program.
"I'm glad we got it all over with,'' Abdul Sr. said. "It came down to location and being close to home with everything that went on with committing to Arizona, de-committing to Arizona, committing to Arizona again and de-committing again."
Abdul Jr. told Washington coach Lorenzo Romar last night, a few hours after UCLA coach Ben Howland was at Bellarmine to watch Abdul Jr. practice.
"I think it was location and the opportunity to play immediately,'' Abdul Sr. said. "And the (Washington) coaching staff, coach Romar has been watching Abdul since he was a freshman in high school, and saw all his games and went to all his (AAU) games. I think that played a big role also."

UCLA linebacker Reggie Carter will have x-rays Wednesday on his ribs. There is concern he suffered a cracked rib at Cal. I have more on it in Wednesday's paper.

Here is what UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel had to say after Tuesday's practice:
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UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel met with the media after practice and said he spoke with his team about the necessity to give great effort and mentioned it "would be criminal" if the team didn't come together and play its best football of the season in the final month in hopes of securing a bowl berth.
As for the quarterbacks, there really wasn't much change from the season. Kevin Craft took the majority of the reps, and Neuheisel said Craft looked good. Chris Forcier took the odd snap with the first unit, but wasn't impressive.
Meanwhile, Ben Olson did some jogging and could take some reps this week, but Neuheisel said it would be "very, very, very optimistic he'd be ready for the next game."
On the injury front, TB Kahlil Bell (ankle), OL Micah Reed (knee), OL Jeff Baca (hamstring) and LB John Hale all sat out practice with nagging injuries.

As many of you guys know, I am not big on on star rankings. From what I've heard, UCLA kept scouting Roby Toma's teammates, and every time they watched the tape, Toma kept cropping up and making plays.
He is also a kid that could go to West Point and play for Army, which is a huge deal. It is a very difficult place to get in to, and speaks of the high quality of an individual. UCLA is a program that needs more leadership, and Toma could be a guy like that.
In addition to playing receiver, he could excel on special teams. Sometimes, size and 40 times do not tell the whole story, and I believe that is what UCLA is thinking in recruiting Toma.

The Associated Press men's basketball poll was due today, and here are my selections:

Sorry, folks, was in a meeting, but just got word that Punahou (Honolulu) receiver Roby Toma called UCLA and gave his non-binding oral commitment, which was expected. I will have more on it later.

Pacific-10 men's basketball media day is Thursday, and here is my preseason ballot. By the way, I think this will be a down year for the league, and picking after my top three teams was not easy.
1. UCLA
2. Arizona State
3. USC
4. Washington State
5. Arizona
6. Washington
7. Stanford
8. Oregon
9. California
10. Oregon State

I am hearing UCLA men's basketball coach Ben Howland will be in Tacoma, Wash., today to watch Bellarmine Prep point guard Abdul Gaddy practice.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel talked this morning about the quarterback situation heading into this week's bye.
"We're going to continue to work with (starter) Kevin (Craft) but we're also going to work with (backup) Chris (Forcier), and see if we can find some way to make us a better offense,'' Neuheisel said.
Neuheisel also said left tackle Jeff Baca (hamstring) could be back for the next game (Nov. 8) against Oregon State.

Here is a Punahou (Honolulu) tailback Dalton Hilliard:

And receiver and teammate Roby Toma:

Here is a story I wrote today about UCLA recruiting Bellarmine Prep (Tacoma, Wash.) point guard Abdul Gaddy, how the Bruins staff told Gaddy's family about Arizona coach Lute Olson retiring.
Also, here is a release from UCLA about watching the two exhibition games online:

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper, which includes UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel talking about bowl chances and changes to personnel, as well as the Bruins getting two more oral commitments.
Also, in talking to UCLA's two newest commits, Punahou (Honolulu) teammates tailback Dalton Hilliard and receiver Roby Toma, both said recruiting Punahoe linebacker Manti Te'o is a priority, and they will work hard on getting him to commit to UCLA.
It should be noted Bruins offensive coordinator Norm Chow is a Punahou alum.

Hearing that Punahou (Honolulu) High tailback Dalton Hilliard committed to UCLA tonight. He was trying to keep it quiet until tomorrow, but word is leaking out.
"I just did it," Hilliard said.
Also, teammate Roby Toma, a receiver, said he will commit to UCLA on Tuesday.

UCLA's offensive line continually has problems with their technique (stepping wrong, blocking the wrong guy) and quarterback Kevin Craft has not been consistent in his reads, or throwing the ball.
So I asked Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel how basic the offense is right now?
"I think it's pretty basic,'' Neuheisel said. "That doesn't mean it's vanilla or boring. I think the things we're asking, especially in the front, is not overly ambitious."

Here are some stats and statistical notes, courtesy of UCLA:

I spoke to Abdul Gaddy Sr. earlier today and asked him why his point guard son, Abdul Jr. of Bellarmine Prep of Tacoma (Wash.), was thinking about Washington. After all, before Abdul Jr. re-committed to Arizona a few weeks ago (he de-committed again over the weekend), his final two choices were Arizona and UCLA.
"How (Washington) got back involved was after the Arizona situation, I think he thought, 'You know what, maybe this is a sign I should stay close to home,' " Abdul Sr. said. "The University of Washington always stayed in contact with him."
Abdul Sr. said a decision could come in the next week, or in the next month, but he believed his son wanted to sign in November.

Washington football coach Ty Willingham announced today he is resigning after the season.

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel after Saturday's loss at Cal.
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UCLA vs. Oregon State on Nov. 8 at the Rose Bowl will kickoff at 3:07 p.m. and be televised locally by FSN Prime Ticket.

Here is my report card on UCLA's 41-20 loss to Cal. Feel free to grade the Bruins yourself:

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper.
One thing that is interesting is during Sunday's conference call with coach Rick Neuheisel, He continually said even though discussions will take place about changing personnel on the offensive side, those discussions may result in no changes. Neuheisel admitted such discussions took place in previous weeks, and very little change took place.

As was expected, Bellarmine Prep of Tacoma (Wash.) point guard Abdul Gaddy de-committed from Arizona. And, as I reported a few days ago, he is now deciding between Washington and UCLA.
And, there is a chance Gaddy waits until the spring signing period before inking a national letter of intent.

I asked UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel is Osaar Rasshan would be involved in there was an open quarterback derby, and he said Rasshan is still experiencing discomfort in his surgically-repaired knee, and that could keep him from getting more reps at practice and being a factor.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said it was "possible" backup quarterback Chris Forcier could get more snaps this week in practice "but it's not a given." He added that would not be decided until after the coaching staff meets Monday.
Neuheisel also said more creativity may be needed to find a way to run the ball, and that discussions would take place about changing personnel on the offensive line again, but sometimes those discussions lead back to the players UCLA is already using.
Also, Neuheisel said the goal is winning the next game, Nov. 8 against Oregon State, to keep bowl hopes alive.

A turning point in the fourth quarter was UCLA's failed fake punt on a fourth-and-23 that gave Cal the ball on its own 47. Bruins punter Aaron Perez said it was his fault because he read Cal's defense and thought the option was to fake it.
But he later said the distance dictated he should have punted.
Cal scored on the next play, a 53-yard flea-flicker from QB Kevin Riley to to receiver Nyan Boateng.
"(UCLA) had a long way to go for the fake," Cal coach Jeff Tedford said. "Thankfully, they came up a yard short and it was a perfect opportunity for us. They were very aggressive in the run game; the safeties were really getting up in there. I felt like that was a great opportunity for the flea flicker.
"Kevin did a great job on that because we had some penetration and he stepped to the side and threw a nice ball to Nyan. Nyan had nice concentration to catch the ball and get it in the end zone."

UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow talked about the offense's woes.
"Our inability to make adjustments hurt us,'' Chow said. "It wasn't a lack of effort. The guys are trying, doing the best they could."

After running for 16 yards on 22 carries, frustration with UCLA's rushing attack was a staple of the postgame discussion.
"This is unbelievably frustrating,'' UCLA guard Nick Ekbatani said. "Individually, that's one of my strengths. I like to run the ball. It's frustrating. We have see the film and see what's going on, but you have to run the ball and see what's going on.''

UCLA coaches told freshman quarterback Kevin Prince on Monday he would red-shirt this season.
"It's whatever will help the team out, so my role now is to play scout team quarterback and give (the defense) a good look," Prince said. "(Red-shirting) is really up to the coaches."
Does Prince have a preference?
"No, not really," he said.

Cal had 17 points through three quarters and led 20-13 with 10 minutes, which included a defensive touchdown by the Bears and good field position on numerous other drives.
I asked defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker is he came away from the game thinking the defense played well.
"There's no doubt in my mind,'' he said. "There's no question. I thought they played their (butts) off the whole game. I'm not (ticked) off one bit. There will be individual plays I criticize, but I thought collectively they played their (butts) off."

As UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel was conducting his post-game press conference underneath Memorial Stadium, a Cal fan started shouting and cursing at Neuheisel. The fan was about 25 feet away, and got to within 8 to 10 feet (there was separation of a shoulder-high wall).
The fan was apparently upset Neuheisel burned his time outs in the final minute, after the game was decided.
I asked Neuheisel if he was bothered by Cal throwing for a 10-yard touchdown with 1:55 to play and coach Jeff Tedford's Bears ahead 34-13.
"No comment,'' he said. "I mean, I think Jeff's a good guy, a good coach. I don't worry about that."

Here is my Harris Poll for this week:

After members of the coaching staff acknowledged UCLA's offensive line, as a whole, needed to improve it's strength, I asked Bruins guard Nick Ekbatani about it.
"I can only look at myself, and I don't think strength was a factor,'' UCLA right guard Nick Ekbatani said. "Technique, from what I've observed and heard, was a problem. It was guys not making the right blocks, guys stepping with the wrong feet.''

Here is the game story I wrote after UCLA's 41-20 loss to Cal, accompanied by the notebook that talks about the QB situation, the fake punt and more, and a side bar in which coach Rick Neuheisel acknowledges strength is an issue for the offensive line.
Also, below are a few player quotes on the game:

A little earlier than usual, but wanted to let everyone know that despite the talk of possibly changing quarterbacks for the next game UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow told me after the game "I don't think we do anything."
I'll have more on it in Sunday's paper.

I will have much more on this in Sunday's paper, but one issue that UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel talked about after the game was the Bruins' lack of strength across the offensive line.
It is something new strength coach Mike Linn knows has to change in the offseason.
"Our defensive line is as strong as anybody, and you saw that,'' Linn said. "The offensive line has to catch up to our defensive front for the game to be consistent.''

Here's some stats on UCLA receiver Terrence Austin, courtesy of UCLA:

82 yard kickoff return was the longest of his career. His 203 kickoff return yards is second highest in school history behind his 206 vs Fresno
State
His 32 returns and 802 yards on the season both rank second in school history behind Matthew Slater's 34 and 986 last year.
His 1383 all-purpose yards are already No. 13 on the UCLA season list with four regular-season games to go.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said the quarterbacks to get a look during the bye will be Kevin Craft, Chris Forcier and Osaar Rashaan.
Kevin Prince told me after the game he was sat down by the coaching staff Monday and told he was red-shirting.

The biggest two things from the postgame were UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel saying the offensive line needed to get stronger, and that is a big reason why the running game is pathetic. He also said he will look at the quarterback situation during the bye week.
Also, the fake punt was punter Aaron Perez's call, and Perez said he made a mistake because of the down and distance.

Give your thoughts on the game. Also, where does UCLA go from here?

Cal's Michael Mohamed just intercepted a pass and returned it 19 yards for a touchdown to give Cal a 34-13 lead. It was UCLA QB Kevin Craft's fourth interception of the game, and second returned for a score.

Cal just scored on a 53-yard flea flicker pass with 10 minutes left. It came one play after UCLA's fake punt on fourth-and-23 was stopped after a 22-yard gain.

Cal kicked a 42-yard field goal to go ahead 20-13 with 12 minutes left in the fourth quarter.

UCLA just had a nice drive that began on its own 15 and converted three third downs before settling for a 38-yard field goal to pull within 17-13 of Cal with 2:11 left in the third quarter.

UCLA QB Kevin Craft has been picked three times and the offense didn't have a first down for 20 minutes, but somehow the Bruins are down only 17-10 going into the locker room after Kai Forbath's 23-yard field goal with eight seconds left in the half.

UCLA finally got a first down, with 10:10 left in the first half, but a few plays later QB Kevin Craft's poor throw behind a receiver resulted in a 69-yard TD interception return by Marcus Ezeff for a TD. It followed Jahvid Best's 34-yard TD run a few moments earlier.
Cal leads 17-7.

UCLA just blocked a punt on the first play of the second quarter and it was recovered by Glenn Love in the end zone to give the Bruins a 7-3 lead.
UCLA does not have a first down yet, but it is in the lead. Also, left guard Micah Reed is out with a leg injury and Darius Savage is playing.

Just got word that Cal coach Jeff Tedford tabbed sophomore Kevin Riley to start for the Bears at quarterback.

I was just told reserve receiver Ryan Graves is not here. He has been dealing with a strained hamstring. While it may not seem significant, Graves is UCLA's backup punt and kick returner. So, if anything happens to Terrence Austin, UCLA will drop to their third returner, who could be Michael Norris on kicks and Taylor Embree on punts.

Thanks for all the questions again. Remember, I will open a chat room at 12:15 p.m. today, plus have game information before, during and after on the blog.
Now, here is the last set of answers this week:

Morning, all. There will be two more sets of answers this morning, so let's get onto the first of the day (and 21st overall):

Here is the game preview and the notebook I wrote for today's paper, and below is the preview capsule:

I will have a few more sets of answers Saturday, as well as pre-game stuff and the in-game chat room open. Now, here is the 20th and final set of the answers today.

Here is the 19th set:

Here is the 18th set:

Here is the 17th set:

Here is the 16th set:

Here is set No. 15:

UCLA's football staff is using today as one of its days to go out and recruit, even though the Bruins play at 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Cal.
According to sources:
Neuheisel is going to Sacred Heart of San Francisco vs. Archbishop Mitty of San Jose. Playing for Sacred Heart is defensive end Kevin Green.
The Bruins also will stake out Bellarmine Prep of San Jose against Serra of San Mateo. Offensive lineman Kevin Danser plays for Bellarmine.
Another game is San Jose Oak Grove vs. San Jose Lincoln, with safety Jabari Carr playing for Oak Grove.
Oakland O'Dowd vs. San Leandro and San Francisco City College against Diablo Valley Community College are also on the list.

Here is the 14th installment:

Here is the 13th set:

Here is the 12th segment:

Here is the 11th set:

Here is the 10th segment:

There's a lot of questions about Arizona commit Adbul Gaddy, a highly-rated guard from Bellarmine Prep of Tacoma (Wash.), and what he will do now that Wildcats coach Lute Olson announced his retirement.
Here's what I've heard so far:
He has not told Arizona he is de-committing, although it is heading that way. Gaddy's father, Abdul Sr., spoke with UCLA coach Ben Howland in the last 48 hours, and sources are telling me it could come down to Washington and UCLA.
However, I'm told the option exists Gaddy could wait and see what happens at Arizona with a new coach, and wait to sign with a school in the spring.

Here is the ninth set:

Here is the eight set:

Here is the seventh set:

Here is the sixth part:

Here is the fifth installment:

Here is the fourth helping:

Before I get to the third set of answers, there were a number of questions about hoops recruit Abdul Gaddy, an Arizona commit. I didn't answer every one of those questions, but boiled it down to a question or two. I am also working on it to see how realistic UCLA's chances are of getting him now that Lute Olson retired as UofA coach.
Now, here is the third set of answers:

By the way, folks,there was a record number of questions this week, which is why there are so many sets of answers.
That said, I deleted at least 10 questions because of the length. But I figure if the folks who asked them couldn't read to keep the questions under 50 words, they won't know their question was deleted.
Here is the second set of answers:

Folks, get ready for a day of answers, because there are a lot of them. I will have at least 20 sets of answers today, and a few more Saturday morning in preparation for the game. All answers will be posted by 11 a.m. Saturday.
Also, as an added feature, I am debuting a game chat this week. It will begin at 12:15 p.m., about 20 minutes before kickoff at Cal. Please keep that clean, or this will be the only week for it.
Now, onto the first set of answers:

Here is the notebook Brian Dohn and I collaborated on for today's paper. There's info on Micah Kia, a Ben Olson update and more.

Brian Dohn reports in tomorrow's paper that Ben Olson's return might be delayed again. Olson was scheduled to return to practice next week - during the bye week - but now he doesn't know if that will happen. He doesn't have a new timetable for his return. More on that tomorrow.

It is my understanding UCLA's basketball staff has spoken to folks close to guard Abdul Gaddy, the Arizona commit who chose the Wildcats over the Bruins. From what I understand, UCLA has a shot at Gaddy because of the retirement of Arizona coach Lute Olson.

This is Rick Neuheisel's post-practice interview with reporters.

General comments about Thursday's practice...
I thought it was a great Thursday practice. It was what we needed, there's a lot of spirited kids ... we're looking forward to the contest. I know they are too. It should be a whale of a Saturday.

On the changes on the offensive line....
It seems seamless now, in that we've had so many changes and mix and matching. The kids kind of roll with it. They really aren't too concerned. Obviously, it impacts your productivity and efficiency because you're better off if everybody's doing the same thing over and over again. That hasn't been possible, so we'll make the best of it.

What Neuheisel liked about playing at Cal....
Loved it. From a student standpoint, all of your classmates try to get up there for a roadtrip, so it's always been a big game. We had some success there when I was in school. My junior year I ended up throwing 1 for 1 for 75 yards and a touchdown - my first pass during a game where the score was still in question.

Who caught it?
Dokie Williams. Tom Ramsey hurt his knee on a sack. It was second-and-20. I was standing on the sidelines, and I grabbed a ball from the ball boy and I ran out there and threw it back to him and that was my warmup pass. I threw a slant, I don't know if it spiraled, but Dokie caught it and went 75 yards.

How many yards after the catch?
Thank you. This is my memory. Let's just say Dokie did the lion's share of the work.

How many traveling (max is 64)?
62. We couldn't get 64 healthy ones.

What strength does Cal have that worries you the most?
Their running game and they're a potent offense, especially at home. They get their crowd into it. We've got to manage that storm, and keep this game close into the fourth quarter, which has been kind of our theme this season. That's important if we expect to have a chance.

Will Derrick Coleman get more carries?
It's possible. We don't know how the game is going to turn out. We're gaining confidence in Derrick. I don't think it's a long shot to see that he gets more time.

Is Mike Harris starting at right tackle?
Yes, and Micah Kia at the left tackle.

On Mike Harris being a little late to practice ...
He was a little late. As he said sometimes nature calls. What are you going to say about that?

Lute Olson is officially retiring. I would've put this up early, but I was watching football practice.
Here's what Olson said in a statement...
"This was not a decision that was made lightly," Olson said. "I've had a wonderful run at The University of Arizona. I leave with a great sense of pride in what we have accomplished here."
Arizona held a press conference, but athletic director Jim Livengood didn't say who would be the next coach. He said he would conduct a national search.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel confirmed Mike Harris will start at right tackle. Harris ran into practice a little late Thursday, which isn't the way you want to start your last practice before your first career start. He told Neuheisel that nature called.
The Bruins will travel with 62 players to Cal.
The UCLA band played at the end of practice again and one of the band members had a shot at returning a kick. She didn't catch it, but she picked it the ball and scored.
Neuheisel detailed his first career touchdown pass, which happened at Cal his junior year, and I'll have more on that later.

UCLA wing Josh Shipp is in markedly better shape as the Bruins ready for the season, down 13 pounds from last season to 210.
How did he do it?
"Work out and eat right,'' he said.
It also helped Shipp was finally able to work out. Many of his past offseasons were spent either recovering from surgery, or trying to avoid surgery.
"I was finally healthy and I could do things,'' Shipp said. "I didn't have as much pain. Basically, no pain. It was being able to work out and not worry about anything."

(Jill Painter will take you through the rest of the day until the Q&A begins Friday morning)

There has been debate over whether Jeff Baca should've been chasing down a defender after an interception was thrown in practice. Here's what Baca said about that: ``What are you going to say? I was trying to make a play. There was nothing I could've done to prevent it. It was a freak thing that happened.''
Baca said he overstrided a bit and that trainers told him the hamstring injury probably happened because it was at the end of practice and he was tired.
Added Baca: ``I was just giving effort. Trying to give a little effort. I was mad (Kevin Craft) threw that interception, especially in practice. I was trying to relieve some stress.''

UCLA cornerback Alterraun Verner. Here is a quick Q&A, with the questions selected from those you folks asked earlier in the week.

1. Favorite book?
It's kind of me being a kid, but Harry Potter.
2. Any hidden talents
I write a little poetry.
3. Who is the best Bruin at Guitar Hero?
The word on the street is probably (offensive lineman) Nick Ekbatani.
4. Most memorable pick for a TD, and why?
That's got to be the Cal game last year because that kind of solidified the win.
5. Why did you chose such a hard major (mathematics)?
I always liked math, and solving things and putting things together. I like math because it's one absolute answer, whereas English is more abstract and creative. You might see something, but it might not be the right answer toward some person, but it might be the right answer for you.
6. What other position would you like to play other than cornerback.
Probably a receiver.
7.Favorite cartoon?
Dragon Ball Z.
8. Can you surf?
Oh, heck, no. No body surf. No midnight surf. No anything.
9. Which coach has the best taste in music?
Defensive line coach Todd Howard.
10. You're a smart dude. How do we fix the financial crisis?
By making me the President.

There is a report Arizona hoops coach Lute Olson is stepping down. I'm sure there will be much more on this in the coming hours (and days).

Here is a feature I wrote on UCLA receiver Terrence Austin and his dream school being Cal. Jill Painter has a nice story on tailback Derrick Coleman, who is hearing impaired, and a discussion Coleman had with an 11-year-old boy with the same type of hearing issues.
Finally, here is the notebook Jill wrote off practice, which has another offensive line update and concludes with Ed Kezirian driving down from Fresno to give the famous Ducky Drake speech.
For those unfamiliar with Coleman's story, here is a link to something I wrote about in February. Also, here is a story I wrote in previewing the 2006 game at Cal, which has more details of the Ducky Drake speech.

Here is Brian Dohn's story on Terrence Austin, my notebook from practice and story on Derrick Colemanhelping a San Fernando Valley Pop Warner player who wears hearing aids, too.

Jill Painter was out at practice and will more on these things in Thursday's paper, but defensive end Tom Blake (sports hernia) is looking to have surgery next week, but it remains questionable whether he will play again this season.
Also, OL coach Bob Palcic said left tackle Jeff Baca is out two to three weeks, which means he may be able to return Nov. 8 against Oregon State.

Derrick Coleman, who has near complete hearing loss, was called on to help Yvonne Johnson on Wednesday. Yvonne has been trying to get her son, Ramon, to wear hearing aids while playing football - like Coleman does - but she'd been unsuccessful. The Johnsons live in Sylmar and Ramon, 11, plays Pop Warner football. He attended UCLA practice and talked with Coleman and saw for himself that Coleman wears hearing aids while playing football.
``He talked to me about how it can help me with hearing and don't listen to anyone about teasing,'' Ramon said. ``He wears his hearing aid, and it helps him hear. He said live life.''
I'll have more on this special meeting between Ramon and Coleman in tomorrow's paper.

Here's Rick Neuheisel's comments following Wednesday's practice.

Good practice, not as good as yesterday, so we've got to figure out exactly why and make sure we're a lot more urgent than tomorrow. I think our guest speaker (Ed Kezirian) made it clear to the guys that this isn't just an ordinary game. Hopefully, they understood that and will come back on a day where they need to be razor sharp.

Ed Kezirian has been with UCLA since he played in the early 70s. He's a very popular figure in the athletic department. He was a coach and player and worked in the administration for several years. There isn't a player out here that doesn't love Ed Kezirian. It's fun for him to come back and reminisce about Ducky Drake. He was a great coach and trainer who used to make this game his game. As a player here, I remember Ducky talking to us about the importance of playing Cal and what that game meant to the university. It's a tribute to Ducky and now a tribute to Ed to have him come back and reminisce and make sure the players understand how important the game against Cal is.

Baca is probably out this week with a hamstring pull, but we hope to have him back by the Oregon State game. It's just a hamstring strain, but it will probably keep him from playing this weekend.

Micah Kia will be the left tackle and we'll wait to see what we do on the right side.

It's been a while since Rick Neuheisel heard the Ducky Drake speech, but he's heard it a lot as a former player and assistant coach.
``Ed Kezirian has been with UCLA since he played in the early 70s,'' Neuheisel said. ``He's a very popular figure in the athletic department. He was a coach and player and worked in the administration for several years. There isn't a player out here that doesn't love Ed Kezirian. It's fun for him to come back and reminisce about Ducky Drake. He was a great coach and trainer who used to make this game his game. As a player here, I remember Ducky talking to us about the importance of playing Cal and what that game meant to the university. It's a tribute to Ducky and now a tribute to Ed to have him come back and reminisce and make sure the players understand how important the game against Cal is.''

Rick Neuheisel said that offensive lineman Jeff Baca is ``probably out'' for the Cal game. He certainly looked out today when he walked into practice on one crutch and had his left hamstring wrapped.
``Baca is probably out this week with a hamstring pull, but we hope to have him back by the Oregon State game,'' Neuheisel said. ``It's just a hamstring strain, but it will probably keep him from playing this weekend.''
UCLA has a bye next week.

Ed Kezirian just showed up at practice. He's here to give the famous Ducky Drake speech. Kezirian is retired and drove down from the Central Valley.

Here is a story that I saw today about some legal problems involving (now former) players.

Cal running back Jahvid Best didn't practice Tuesday, but he said today during a conference call his elbow felt fine and he would play Saturday against UCLA.

It is time for the Q&A this week. Send in the questions by Friday at 8 a.m., and the responses will follow throughout the day.
As a side note, any question more than 50 words will be deleted. (The objective here is to ask a question, not show how much you know before asking a question.)

For those who followed recruiting over the summer, Donovan Edwards' name should sound familiar. He was a junior college offensive tackle from Diablo Valley Community College who told UCLA he was coming to Westwood as long as he got his academics in order, than wound up at Cal.
Edwards would have been in the mix for a starting job at UCLA, but is a reserve with the Bears. A sophomore, the left tackle has played in two of Cal's six games, seeing action in a 66-3 win against Washington State and a 42-7 win against Colorado State.

Punahou of Honolulu tailback Dalton Hilliard told me he could decide next week on his college destination, and in recruiting circles the feeling is UCLA will be tough to beat.
Hilliard will visit Arizona this weekend. He made an official trip to UCLA for last week's Stanford game.
"I got back (Monday) afternoon from my (UCLA) trip and felt real good about it," Hilliard said. "I'm not going to do anything yet. Probably next week, early in the week, I'll make a decision. I'm definitely going to take this trip to Arizona and get another Pac-10 view."
Hilliard already visited Nebraska, and said if he does make more trips after Arizona, it would be to Colorado and Utah.
"UCLA has been really high on my list for a long time, and I definitely waited around to see if they were ever going to come through with an offer and they did," Hilliard said. "I guess you could call it that UCLA is the top school in terms of where they rank in terms of my recruiting, and how I feel about them."

Here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper, which includes an update on running back Kahlil Bell, two more oral commitments and a few other notes.
Also, I spoke to Punahou (Honolulu) running back Dalton Hilliard last night and he said UCLA was his top choice, but he was taking a visit to Arizona this coming up week. I'll have more from Hilliard in a little while.

I talked Bloomington High of Fontana fullback Jayson Allmond earlier tonight about his commitment to UCLA, and asked him why he jumped at the Bruins' offer and made a decision.
"It's getting to the end of my senior season and I talked to a lot of schools, and narrowed it down to three schools, Nevada, UCLA and Fresno State,'' Allmond said. "What got me with UCLA is they made me feel real comfortable when I came to their games, and made me feel like I was part of the family and I wasn't even part of the team yet."

I talked to Diamond Ranch of Pomona cornerback Brandon Sermons' coach a little while ago about what type of player UCLA was getting.
"I played under (UCLA defensive coordinator) DeWayne Walker, and he and Brandon are very similar," said Diamond Ranch coach Roddy Layton of his days with Walker at Mt. SAC. "They're quiet, straight shooters. They're pure work. You want to be there and play for him. He's very quiet, very technical and very hard working, and Brandon's that way."

UCLA also received a commitment from fullback Jayson Allmond of Fontana High of Bloomington today. I will have more on both commitments soon.

Folks, I just got off the phone with a source who told me Diamond Ranch cornerback Brandon Sermons committed to UCLA. I will have more in a few minutes.

With UCLA's depth depleted at defensive end, David Carter was moved from defensive tackle to defensive end. With Reggie Stokes (knee), Tom Blake (sports hernia) and Chase Moline (back) are all out against Cal, leaving Datone Jones and Korey Bosworth as the starters, and Chinonso Anyanwu and Justin Edison the primary backups.

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel after Tuesday's practice:
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UCLA received a scare when left tackle Jeff Baca was helped from the field late in practice after trying to chase down a defensive player returning an interception. It's being termed a hamstring strain, but there will be more evaluation today.
Micah Kia moved to left tackle in place of Baca for the remaining reps. Another development was, even before Baca's injury, Mike Harris moved ahead of Kia at right tackle.
Also, UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said defensive end Reggie Stokes would undergo arthroscopic surgery to repair torn meniscus in his knee Thursday, with the hopes of returning Nov. 15 at Washington.
Backup punt returner and receiver Ryan Graves sat out practice with a strained hamstring.

UCLA hoops coach Ben Howland said last week senior Josh Shipp may be asked to play power forward in spurts this season. During last week's media day, I asked Shipp what he was hearing about that.
"I didn't hear that," Shipp said. "Whatever it takes for the team to win. Can they guard me at the four? It's a possibility (to play there), but I don't think it's going to happen. If it does, I have to play it."

It seems like folks want me to chose a player for the weekly light-hitting Q&A, and that will give everyone a chance to send in more specific questions. This week I will go with Alterraun Verner.
So, send in a fun question, and I will chose 10 to ask him and post the weekly feature in its usual Thursday slot.

Check out this video of UCLA's latest football commit, offensive tackle Stanley Hasiak. He is No. 75 and plays left tackle.

My understanding is hoops commit Reeves Nelson's arthroscopic knee surgery went well, and less damage was found than initially feared. Nelson, a power forward from Modesto Christian, is expected to miss 6 to 8 weeks, and should be ready to play his senior season by Christmas.
Reeves hurt the knee playing football, and had surgery Friday at UCLA Medical Center.

I asked Cal coach Jeff Tedford this morning how he was going to handle his quarterback situation this week, and was told it would be the same as a week ago, which means Nate Longshore and Kevin Riley will take equal reps in practice this week before a decision is made on who will start against UCLA.
Also, Tedford said running back Jahvid Best, who sat out the end of Cal's lost to Arizona because of an elbow injury was "doing ok. ...It's been positive over the last couple of days."
Best leads Cal in rushing with 528 yards. He missed the win against Arizona State with a dislocated elbow, but is expected to play against UCLA.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said this morning it remains a head-scratching situation why quarterback Kevin Craft has so much trouble during games, but can put together an impressive drive to win games. Craft has been in that situation twice, and twice he drove the Bruins for a last-second touchdown.
"If I knew, I'd tell you,'' Neuheisel said. "I don't know why there is a period of struggles early in games, but for whatever reasons he does calm down when it seems very difficult to calm down.
"He's a resilient son of a gun."

Here is the audio of UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's Monday press conference:
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I know a lot of folks were wondering why heralded freshman running back Milton Knox wasn't playing this season, and here is the story I wrote for today's paper on what was going on. Also, I wrote a notebook, focusing on UCLA's depleted defensive end depth and the possibility Tom Blake and Reggie Stokes will undergo surgeries.
As a side note, injured quarterback Ben Olson did some light throwing last week, although his possible return from a broken foot remains a few weeks away.

A few tidbits to whet the appetite for the morning paper.
First, I wrote a story about why running back Milton Knox is red-shirting, and it has nothing to do with playing ability. There were eligibility issues, that have since been resolved but he will still red-shirt.
Second, could be without DEs Tom Blake and Reggie Stokes at Cal as both are considering having surgery. If Blake doesn't have surgery, his career could be done.

UCLA cornerback Alterraun Verner spoke with the media today, and gave his thoughts about the Stanford win and looked ahead to Cal.
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A staple during UCLA-California week is a mid-week practice speech, first brought forth by former Bruins track coach Ducky Drake. The message was about Cal being the big brother to UCLA, and how the Bears didn't respect the Bruins.
Former Bruins player, assistant coach and academic advisor, Ed Kezirian, took over the role of animated speech deliverer a few years back, but Kezirian retired in the spring. So now there may be no one left to deliver the post-practice speech.
"This is an all-points bulletin for easy Ed Kezirian. We need him back,'' UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said. "If you can find him on the plains of Fresno, can we get him back from farm country? We'd love to have Ed come back and do that. It would be terrific. There's no one would could talk about that rivalry with more conviction than Ed Kezirian.
"This is an important game and it needs to be treated as an important game because of the history. One of the great things about college football is the history, and passing the traditions on to the next generation. We need to make sure we cultivate that."

UCLA center Jake Dean has had trouble getting the shot-gun snaps on target to quarterback Kevin Craft, and I asked Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel about it.
"Well, normally in shot-gun snaps, it is pass blocking," Neuheisel said. "But when you start doing your run schemes from shotgun and the center gets involved in block backs or pulling that first step, sometimes they are trying to make that first step before they snap the ball.
"All of sudden their body angle has changed as the ball is being snapped and it heads off to the left or it heads off to the right, so you have to really look at it to make sure that the ball snaps before you start taking all those big steps that are so important in blocking."

UCLA placekicker Kai Forbath was named the Pacific-10 special teams player of the week after going 3 for 3 on field goal attempts against Stanford. Here is the release:

I know a lot of folks have been asking about UCLA tailback Aundre Dean not getting any playing time, so I asked coach Rick Neuheisel today about it.
"He's still a little hurt," Neuheisel said. "I see a little limp when he tries to open it up. And he's a young player. ...We want him to blossom, but there's more to it than just carrying the football."
In talking about Cal, Neuheisel said the Bears' running game is a big concern, led by a physical offensive line.
"They have an offensive line that can maul you,''
UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel said DE Reggie Stokes will have his injured knee re-examined today and results should be known Tuesday.
He said TB Raymond Carter (groin) could be available this week.

UCLA cornerback Alterraun Verner met with the media today and said the thing that stands out about Cal (this week's opponent) is speed.
"You see they have a lot of speed on that team,'' Verner said. "It's going to be a another space game."
Verner said UCLA's cornerbacks matchup with Cal's receiver speed well, but the Bears' running backs have tremendous speed and could cause problems for the Bruins' linebackers and secondary.

Jumping to hoops for a minute, UCLA coach Ben Howland talked about the need for center Alfred Aboya to stay on the court, and not pick up the silly fouls that dotted his career.
"He's going to foul some, but I don't want it to be by reaching,'' Howland said. "We need Alfred Aboya to play 25 minutes a game, on average, this year. Minimum. He does so many things well. I mean, Alfred is really going to be key to this team this year, and how far we go. His presence, his defense, his blocking out.
"He does all the right things. It'll be a real learning experience for the two freshmen because they have to go against him every day."

Here is my report card on UCLA's 23-20 win against Stanford. Vote for yourself below:

Here is the football notebook from today's paper, which looks ahead to Cal and also re-visits the Stanford win.
And here is a basketball notebook, focusing on freshman center J'mison Morgan.
As a side note, I spoke to Morgan about possible pitfalls of playing against more experienced guys in the Pacific-10 conference.
"It's more of a strength factor. I don't think it's an age factor," Morgan said. "Young players are wise nowadays, too. It's more of a strength thing. We have to get in the weight room more and get stronger so we can compete with the bigger, older guys."

Stanley Hasiak, the offensive lineman from Kapolei (Hawaii) High who gave a non-binding oral commitment to UCLA today, just told me he would take a trip to Cal next month, but wasn't sure if he would visit any other schools.
He said he committed after getting a good vibe from the program.
"I always liked UCLA but I wasn't sure I wanted to commit this early,'' Hasiak said. "I thought about it and there isn't a better situation than this, with this school.
"This past summer when I was up there on my unofficial (visit) I was close to committing, but I wasn't sure. This morning I made up my mind. I finally had time to thing to myself and got an evaluation of the school, and it confirmed what I was thinking.
Hasiak said he was told the plan is for him to come in next season and compete for a job at left tackle since UCLA wants to move starting freshman left tackle Jeff Baca to guard.
Not coincidentally, Baca hosted Hasiak.
"We were talking about everything -- the football, the coaches, the school. Anything that was going around,'' Hasiak said.

Tracy Murray is returning to the UCLA family. He will serve as a fill-in analyst on the radio broadcast when Don MacLean is doing UCLA games on television or pulled away by his Clippers television responsibilities.

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel just finished speaking with the media, and said "we were fortunate to win that game." He also sounded a familiar refrain in the running game must improve after it stalled again against Stanford.
Neuheisel added QB Kevin Craft looks more comfortable in the shot-gun, and said it was "brilliant" strategy to get Craft outside of the pocket and allow him to throw on the run.
On the injury front, Neuheisel said defensive end Reggie Stokes (knee) was questionable for Cal, but everyone else (yes, that includes S Rahim Moore) should be ready to practice Tuesday.

Just talked to Ben Howland and he said he was very pleased with the first three practices. He said frosh center J'mison Morgan did a nice job scoring, and showed very good hands catching the basketball.
He said freshman center/power forward Drew Gordon was feeling a knee tweak, but got out-fitted with a new brace and had his best practice today.
Howland added he liked the decision-making of freshman guard Jerime Anderson.
On an injury front, the bone scan on forward Nikola Dragovic's foot was negative, and Dragovic is pain free and should be able to practice by Thursday.

UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow said he wasn't sure what happened to QB Kevin Craft in the first half, but noticed it is a trend.
"I think we were all very disappointed with his play in the first half," Chow said. "I'm not sure I kow why he's played poorly in the first half. Like I told the players, there was a study once, and over 70 percent of pass plays that are made are not in rhythm. They're not like you draw them in the book, and that's why he does well.''

Getting bowl eligible was a theme for some players before the Stanford game, but not all of them.
"We don't really think of the bowl season yet," UCLA defensive tackle Brigham Harwell said. "We're trying to take it one game at a time and get back into the conference race. We're back in it, and now we go up to Cal-Berkeley and we need to come out and have a strong week of practice. It's a huge win for us. It was a must-win game for us. We had to win it. If we were going to be in contention for the conference race, we had to win this game."

Not only was Terrence Austin's third quarter touchdown reception, a 2-yard flip from quarterback Kevin Craft, the first score of his career, but it was the first touchdown reception by a UCLA wide receiver this season.
Austin, who was carted off the field on a stretcher last week against Oregon was questionable for the game, finished with a team-leading five catches for 51 yards, but was not used to return punts.
"Coaches took it easy on me because they didn't want me to do too much, but I don't think it would have mattered if they let me play more,'' Austin said. "I was fine out there. I didn't even think about it.''

Bruins freshman tight end Cory Harkey said he was surprised QB Kevin Craft looked his way on the game-winning 7-yard touchdown pass with 10 seconds remaining.
"The ball fell in my hands," Harkey said. "I was focused on catching it, but it was crazy how it happened. ...This is a key win for us. We were down and kept on pushing through, and the defense and the offense kept pushing through, and we battled our butts off."

Brian Dohn reports that Hawaii prep offensive lineman Stanley Hasiak just commited to UCLA. He still could take trips to Cal and USC. Dohn will have more on this later.

UCLA linebacker Reggie Carter said before the game he was hearing Stanford was a dirty team, and apparently the Cardinal did not like that.
"They were talking a lot of trash. Maybe they read it,'' Carter said. "After the first play, they said, 'Hey, 51, you called us out.' I was like, 'Really?' I don't even remember what I said. But they talked the whole game. Usually, the o-line are too tired to talk. They were talking from the first snap, talking trash and all that, but they weren't dirty. They played hard.''

Here is my Harris Poll for this week:

I spoke to UCLA offensive coordinator Norm Chow after the game about coach Rick Neuheisel, and Neuheisel saying he wanted to pull QB Kevin Craft late in the second quarter but was talked out of it by Chow.
"He's an emotional football coach, and he's a very good football coach, and we were all disappointed in Kevin's play,'' Chow said. "But at that point in time, with two minutes to go, what did we do, put together a two-minute drive and get three points? It wasn't the time. I didn't think it was the time, but he's the head coach. He's allowed to do what he wants to do.
"To put a new guy in for the two-minute drill doesn't make sense."

Here is a quick snipet of what UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel had to say after Saturday's 23-20 win against Stanford, with the rest of his comments underneath:
Neuheisel's opening statement:
"Congratulations to Stanford for a hard-fought game. They were, as I thought they would be, very physical and very tough at the line of scrimmage. Coach Harbaugh has done a great job with that team. It was not an accident that they were 3-1 [in Pac-10 play] headed into this game. They have a chance to make some noise as their conference season continues."

Check out the Daily News' pictures from UCLA's win.

Here is the game story of UCLA's thrilling 23-20 defeat of Stanford, as well as the notebook, which deals with Stanford's decision to run the ball, and run some more. Staffer Jill Painter wrote a column about QB Kevin Craft's resiliency, and also a sidebar about TE Cory Harkey, who had the game-winning catch.

Here are some notes from after UCLA's 23-20 win against Stanford:

Kevin Craft didn't learn that Rick Neuheisel almost benched him near the end of the second quarter until reporters asked him about it. He didn't see Chris Forcier warming up on the sideline, either.
Rick Neuheisel said he was talked out of it by Norm Chow, who made a case for Craft by saying he'd taken all the reps in UCLA's two-minute drill.
``There was a point in the game where I did consider it and sometimes it gets the better of me because I'm an old quarterback and an old quarterback coach,'' Neuheisel said on thoughts of benching Craft. ``It was probably a little irrational on my part, but the kid, God bless him, he responded. His resiliency is one of the reasons why we're standing here with a victory. Norm called me down.''
Brian Dohn will have more on the game tomorrow.

UCLA scored 10 of its 23 points via the two-minute drill, getting a field goal at the end of the first half and scoring the game-winning touchdown with 10 seconds to play.
"I think they work well under pressure,'' UCLA linebacker Reggie Carter said. "Maybe they should just go two-minute the whole game. I think (quarterback Kevin) Craft and the offense and (offensive coordinator) Norm Chow did a great job. They really stepped up under pressure.

UCLA DE Reggie Stokes injured his left knee and will have an MRI on Sunday and DE Chinonso Anyanwu has a strain in the back of his knee.
RT Micah Kia injured his back again when he was kneed, and he said he would be examined either Sunday or Monday.
MLB Steve Sloan has a right knee contusion and x-rays were negative.
FS Rahim Moore suffered a bruised right heel and DE Datone Jones bruised his calf, but both returned to the game.

Running back Dalton Hilliard of Punahou High of Honolulu was offered a scholarship by UCLA today, but did not commit immediately. I'm told something could happen in the next few days. Hillard played last night, and didn't get to L.A. until this morning, and he won't go home until Monday.
Meanwhile, offensive lineman Stanley Hasiak of Kapolei (Hawaii) High is also on his official visit, and I was told he was having a very good time but it seems unlikely he will make a decision any time soon.

The vibe in UCLA's locker room was the win showed the team's mental toughness, and showed they have heart and believe in each other.
One interesting thing was Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel said he almost yanked QB Kevin Craft late in the first half, but was talked out of it by offensive coordinator Norm Chow.

UCLA's two-minute offense did the trick against Stanford. Kevin Craft, struggled all game but led UCLA on an 87-yard, 11-play drive that took 2:13 off the clock. Craft found tight end Cory Harkey open in the end zone for a 7-yard touchdown to put UCLA ahead.
Your thoughts on the game?

Stanford's Aaron Zagory kicked a 29-yard field goal to increase its lead by four points with 2:31 left. UCLA must score a touchdown to win...1:45 left.

After a huge 46-yard kickoff return, Stanford's offense stalled at the 23. Aaron Zagory kicked a 40-yard field goal to give Stanford a 17-16 lead. This means the decision to not go for the two-point conversion still comes into play. There are 12 minutes left in the game.

Kai Forbath just kicked a 28-yard field goal to UCLA ahead in the fourth quarter.

Kevin Craft connected with Terrence Austin on a 2-yard touchdown pass to pull UCLA within 14-13 midway throught the third quarter. The Bruins chose not to go for the two-point conversion, which could've tied the game. It was early in the second half, however, but this could prove to be a very interesting situation.

The Bruins got the ball back with 2:25 left before halftime. UCLA went 88 yards in 16 plays, and Kai Forbath kicked a 19-yard field goal to pull within eight points. This was significant because UCLA can tie the game with a touchdown and two-point conversion.
Stanford really helped UCLA on that drive with FOUR penalties...including a personal foul for a late hit on Kevin Craft, and a pass interference call in the end zone with two seconds left.
Thoughts on the first half?

Chris Forcier was warming up on the sideline, but Kevin Craft is still at quarterback.

Kevin Craft has struggled against Stanford, and Chris Forcier is now warming up on the sideline, with three minutes left in the first half. Stanford leads, 7-3.

Kai Forbath kicked a 37-yard field goal to pull UCLA within 7-3. Forbath has made 8 of 11 field goals this season.

Stanford just scored on Toby Gerhart's 3-yard touchdown run for Stanford's first points in the Rose Bowl since 2002. The Cardinal was shut out in 2004 and 2006 at the Rose Bowl.

Running back Raymond Carter is not dressed, so he's not available to play today.

Here are the recruits expected at today's game, which includes a number of UCLA commits and Oaks Christian High quarterback Nick Montana, the son of Joe Montana.

Scouts from the Houston Texans and Denver Broncos are scheduled to be here.

It used to be Stanford was known for lacking toughness and how easy it was to intimidate the Cardinal.
"That's what it's been in the past,'' UCLA center Jake Dean said. "I guess it's different there now. I expect it will be very similar to Oregon, where they have some big guys up front and play real hard and go to the whistle.''

UCLA linebacker Reggie Carter said Stanford is a much different team, even calling the Cardinal dirty. And here is the preview I wrote about UCLA still thinking about a bowl game.
Also, the preview capsule is below.
As for predictions, I went with UCLA 20, Stanford 19.

Folks, got through all the questions in one day, so thanks for reading. Please enjoy the last set of answers, and thanks for all the questions again this week:

Here is the 15th set:

Here is the 14th set:

We are to my favorite number, lucky 13, for answers:

Here is the 12th set

Here is the 11th set:

Here is the 10th installment:

Here is the ninth set:

Here is the eighth helping:

UCLA is expecting in the low 60,000s for Saturday's homecoming game against Stanford. Seeing how UCLA likes to estimate lower than the numbers actually are, I would say that means 65,000ish for the game.

Here is the seventh set:

Here is the sixth set:

Here is a question from today's Q&A:
You wrote that Football and Men's Basketball are the only sports that make a profit, which pays for all of the other sports. Which of the other sports cost Ucla the most to have? Please list the 3 non-football/basketball sports costing the most.

Rather than list three sports, I figured I would make the sheet available to anyone who wants to read it, so here it is:

UCLA EADA 2008.pdf

Folks, there were more questions than I thought. Looks like there will be 16 sets of answers today, and a set or two tomorrow before 10 a.m. Now, here is the fifth set:

Here is the fourth set:

Here is the third set:

Here is the second set:

Just got word from UCLA that Micah Reed will start at left guard in place of Darius Savage and John Hale will start at strong-side linebacker ahead of Akeem Ayers.

Sorry for the delay in getting started this morning, but there will be a least 12 sets of answers today. Yes, it is a light day (ya' know, only 120 or so responses and 150 or so questions).
Any who, let's get on to the first set:

Folks, sorry for the late start today. Had some things I had to take care of personally, so the Q&A will start in about 30 minutes.
In the meantime, here is the notebook I wrote for today's paper, concentrating on the need to force turnovers, plus some other tidbits.
Also, here is the audio from UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel's post-practice media session from Thursday.
High speed
Neuheisel high speed 1016.wav
Dialup
Neuheisel dialup 1016.mp3

Here is what Rick Neuheisel had to say about QB Kevin Craft's development so far:
"I think Kevin is doing a nice job,'' Neuheisel said. "Stop and think of where he's been, and where he's come from. I think we're getting a lot out of him. I think he's had his moments where he's been really good, and I think he's had his moments where he's struggled, and I think you really have to understand and expect (that) when you're dealing with a guy who's got that little experience.''

UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel just had his press briefing after practice, and said he was still deciding whether Terrence Austin would return kicks and punts this weekend.
It also looks like Micah Reed will start at left guard in place of Darius Savage, but Savage is expected to play. Also, DEs Tom Blake (abdominal strain) and Chase Moline (back) are out this week.
DE Reggie Stokes watched practice with a knee injury, but Neuheisel said he would play.

Punter Aaron Perez. I know there requests for Brigham Harwell and Alterraun Verner, but Perez is a good dude and I thought worthy of this feature.

1. What will you remember most about UCLA football in 20 years?
Probably beating 'SC, and the punt at the end.
2. What do think when a guy is returning a punt for a TD?
Oh, gosh. Expletive.
3. Favorite dessert?
Cookies n' cream ice cream
4. What do you want to do after football?
I don't know. Hopefully, something.
5. Favorite reason to hate USC?
Everything about them.
6. Dodgers or Angels?
Arsenal.
7. Favorite place to eat on campus?
Northern Lights. The breakfast burrito at Northern Lights.
8. Celebrity crush?
Kate Beckinsale.
9. Worst dancer on the team who thinks he's a good dancer?
Brigham Harwell.
10. Which guy on the team is the best lady's man?
Kai Forbath.

I was joking around with UCLA point guard Darren Collison during media day about his returning for his senior season, and asked him "who is more surprised he was (at UCLA) this season, me or you?''
"That's a great question,'' Collison said. "I couldn't t answer that. We're both surprised, and we'll leave it at that."
So why did Collison return?
"I can back because of loyalty,'' Collison said. "Loyalty to UCLA. The money's there, and the glam and the fame is there, but it doesn't mean you have to go that way, in that direction. UCLA, to win a national championship here, is going to be something extraordinarily special."

UCLA basketball coach Ben Howland said he is counting on senior center Alfred Aboya to play 25 minutes per game, and that means Aboya must stay out of foul trouble. He committed a foul every 6.6 minutes on the court last season, and fouled out four times.
So Howland said he will stop practice and make the team run when Aboya commits silly fouls.
"I think it's a great approach because if you know a foul equals running sprints, I think it will just give you a different mind set, a different approach, as you play the game,'' Aboya said.

Equity in Athletics reports were released, and UCLA's athletic department proved to be self-sustaining with revenues and expenses equaling $66,088,264 for the 2007-08 athletic calendar.
UCLA fields 20 sports, including nine men's programs. The school reported 390 female athletes, compared to 379 men.
Football and men's basketball were the only sports to produce a profit. The football team had revenues of more than $28 million, and netted $11,370,856. The men's basketball team had revenues of nearly $11 million, and posted a profit of $4,257,853.

Here is a feature I wrote on Bruins receiver Taylor Embree that was in today's paper, as well as the notebook, chronicling defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker saying Bret Lockett will start at strong safety. There are also other newsy things, including the status of Marcus Everett.
As a side not here's what Everett had to say about being ready to play against Stanford.
"I've been waiting to play since Fresno State,'' Everett said. "I think this week is the week. I actually practiced and got a lot of reps, and felt good."
Everett said he will take a shot to numb the pain, if necessary.
"If I can play without it, I'm definitely going to play without it,'' Everett said. "That's the last option, but if that's what I have to do, that's what I'll do.''

Here is the notebook I wrote off of UCLA's basketball media day, which discusses UCLA's visions of a 12th national title, injuries to current players and a football injury to commit Reeves Nelson of Modesto Christian Academy.
Not only is Nelson making his official visit this weekend, but Rocklin High forward Brandan Lane, another UCLA commit, will be officially visiting this weekend. The visits coincides with the start of basketball practice Friday at 8 p.m.

UCLA defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker told me Bret Lockett will start at strong safety, but Glenn Love will also play extensively. I wrote more about it in Thursday's paper.