Back to basics The Bruins are getting back to
the basics this week in practice. Following a four-turnover game
last week, UCLA is looking to focus on the simpler points of the
game. “We’re getting back to the fundamentals,”
head coach Bob Toledo said Tuesday at practice. “Starting
next week we’ll focus on the specifics for Cal.”
Double trouble on D Two key defensive players have
not practiced this week. Both Marques Anderson and Ken Kocher sat
out practice Monday and Tuesday, but both plan on playing next week
against Cal. Anderson is recovering from a recent shoulder surgery
while Kocher has been struggling with a high ankle sprain.
“It feels better,” Kocher said of the injury he
sustained before the Alabama game. “I’m just riding the
bike and getting ready for next week.” Bruised
Bruins DeShaun Foster’s fractured wrist might be the
most serious injury suffered against Arizona State, but he
wasn’t the only one who came home sore. Audie Attar, who
played every defensive snap, as well as in special team plays, was
one of a group of Bruins who is looking forward to the bye week.
“I’m a little sore,” Attar said. “But so
are the rest of these guys. We just have to get out there and do
what we have to do. We can’t afford any more
losses.”
Little big bro Getting pushed out of the nest
is not always easy, but being able to fall into the powerful arms
of the strongest running back on the team makes landing much
simpler. Fifth-year senior Jermain Lewis, who has been named
starting tailback for the third time, is taking redshirt freshman
Akil Harris under his powerful wing. The 5-foot-7 Lewis has been
helping the 6-0 Harris adjust to the idea of increased playing
time. “I just told him, “˜Go out there and do what you
have to do,'” Lewis said. “He just has to play
like he’s capable of playing.”
Notes compiled by Adam Karon, Daily Bruin Reporter