Three for Three with Kai Maiava

On the importance of a 3-0 start:
“It plays a big role in giving the younger guys confidence going into the game. Knowing that we have to keep the streak going and keep our momentum flowing is going to give us that little boost that the team needs.”

On possibly moving to 4-0:
“Our main goal isn’t to protect our record; we can’t take no chances on other teams losing or hoping this or that happens. We’ve got to keep the ball in our court, keep winning. So far, Stanford’s on the top, and we have to take what is ours, not leave our fate in other people’s hands.”

On the UCLA running game matching up with Stanford’s:
“There’s been a lot of talk about that, but I think up guys up front are ready. We’re ready to prove ourselves, get the respect we deserve.”

Two for Two with Mike Harris

On the offensive line continuity so far:
“It’s paying off so well. All of us, we communicate on the field, and we just know we’ve got each other’s backs. It just comes with the repetitions in practice. This is group as a whole, having five guys who just want to kick some butt. That’s what we were missing last year. People were calling us soft. This year, definitely, we’re the hammers and the other team is the nails.”

On playing with a line leader like Kai Maiava:
“Playing especially with Kai Maiava, he’s such a good center. That’s what we were missing – that leadership role on the line. He’s been taking that role, and I’m proud of him.”

Post-practice update

Hey folks,

Just got done talking to Courtney Viney – one bright kid – and I’ll have some interviews for you shortly.
Some quick tidbits:
*Kai Maiava sat out of practice with a sore back, with Jake Dean filling in at center, but he is expected to play on Saturday
*Glenn Love was hobbling throughout practice with a sore ankle, but is also expected to play
*Gavin Ketchum was out in full pads jogging a bit, but still is doubtful for Saturday
*Brian Price was out of practice, too, with an banged up leg, but he’ll play Saturday.

Coming soon: Rick Neuheisel, Courtney Viney, Richard Brehaut, Carnell Lake and Damien Thigpen…

UCLA’s Starting O-Line confirmed

UCLA confirmed its starters on the offensive line as follows…

Left Tackle: Freshman Xavier Su’a-Filo
Left Guard: Freshman Stanley Hasiak
Center: Sophomore Kai Maiava
Right Guard: Junior Eddie Williams
Right Tackle: Sophomore Jeff Baca

Your analysis is welcomed, and I will do my best to provide answers…

Thanks
JG

Kai Maiava at Media Day

On the offensive line having something to prove:
“I think we’re going to start showing everybody as soon as we put on these pads,” Maiava. “The O-Line knows what happened last year, we know the numbers and the statistics and the criticism we took. The first couple days, we’re going to show that we mean business this year. It ain’t going to be like last year.”

On how he feels heading into the preseason:
“I’m angry,” Maiava said with a big smile. “I can’t wait to get out there and try to be a leader. The thing that helps is there’s a lot more competition on the O-Line. Everybody is competing for a job. It’s going to create better battles, and make everyone better. ”