On speaking with players about the coaching situation:
“A couple of the quarterbacks came in and they were curious as to what was going on. I said Norm Chow has told me he wanted to be here. I’m assuming he will be. If not, there will be somebody else who comes in who will be highly qualifed. That’s just the nature of the beast. One thing about the profession is coaches are replaceable.”

On a possible list of replacements:
“When you’re in this situation as a head coach you always kind of have a list in the back of your mind. Things happen.”

On learning of USC’s possible interest in Chow:
“The first I heard of it was on the media, I think it was Shelley Smith. I was disappointed, but I think at some level there was some irresponsible reporting going on as well. When I got a chance to talk to Norm, he said that they had not talked.”

On having the situation sorted out before the recruiting weekend:
“I’m hopeful that it can be behind us certainly before then. Regardless, kids are going to know that UCLA football is something to be excited about.”

On what this adds to the rivalry:
“You’re right, there was no passion on that field this last year. That’s what we needed to do was throw a match on this thing. It’s a great rivalry. One that’s exciting for both sides.”

On possibly extending Chow’s contract:
“There are all sorts of things going on with negotiations. What’s important is that Norm is saying he wants to be at UCLA.”

On possibly extending Chow’s contract, Pt. 2:
“Obviously there can be movement in that regard. That’s for the people who sign the checks and make those decisions. With respect for me, I want to know that my assistant coaches want to be here.”