Weekly Q&A — 8/25/13 Answers

Q: Do you think Jim Mora might still hold him Anthony Barr out — suit him up, but only use him if the game gets close?

A: I think Barr will start if he’s ready to play. That he already returned to practice today, albeit in shells, seems to indicate that he’s on track. If Mora was worried about having to ease Barr into game action, I doubt the linebacker would have started practicing already.

Q: I hate to even put this out there, but here goes: If Brett Hundley goes down, does Baby Neuheisel have the chops to carry this team? Or, does Jim Mora press Woulard into action and burn the redshirt year? Continue reading “Weekly Q&A — 8/25/13 Answers” »

VIDEO: Left tackle Simon Goines talks knee injury


Two weeks ago, Simon Goines limped off the Cal State San Bernardino practice field, his UCLA teammates standing in silence. The left tackle’s right leg had taken an awkward roll, and he placed little pressure on it as he was helped toward the locker room.

“Initially, I was pretty scared,” he said.

Further examination showed that it was a hyperextended right knee — good news for a young unit that needs as many experienced members as possible. The sophomore participated in Monday’s practice for the first time since the injury, and head coach Jim Mora expects him to be ready to play against Nevada. Continue reading “VIDEO: Left tackle Simon Goines talks knee injury” »

Linebacker Anthony Barr expected to play in season opener

For the first time in nearly a week, UCLA linebacker Anthony Barr dressed in shoulder pads, cleats and a helmet for practice.

After suffering an undisclosed head injury during live drills last Tuesday, the Bruins’ All-American had been sidelined, appearing at practice only as an observer. Head coach Jim Mora did not talk in detail about Barr, but said he expects the star defender to play in Saturday’s 7 p.m. season opener against Nevada.

“He’s good to go,” Mora said.

The rest of what Mora called his first and last injury report of the season: Continue reading “Linebacker Anthony Barr expected to play in season opener” »