UCLA leads Washington, 17-7 at halftime

This game matched two programs struggling through the final stretch of forgettable seasons.

UCLA wasted no time proving that Washington has the statistically worst defense in the Pacific 10 Conference.

The offensively challenged Bruins took the opening kickoff and drove 80 yards in 12 plays with quarterback Kevin Craft completing several passes and freshman tailback Derrick Coleman finding room to run, bouncing outside for an 11-yard touchdown.

Then Craft reverted to his old ways. On his team's next two possessions, he threw to tightly covered receivers and had both passes deflected for interceptions.

The Huskies took advantage of the first turnover with a seven-yard touchdown run by tailback Brandon Johnson to tie the score at 7-7. The second interception went for naught, quarterback Ronnie Fouch fumbling the ball away.

This time it was UCLA's turn to convert, Kahlil Bell covering 31 yards on four carries, scoring from a yard out.

When the defense stopped Washington on fourth down at midfield, Kai Forbath added a 49-yard field goal to give the Bruins a 10-point lead at halftime.

Wharton is a Times staff writer.

david.wharton@latimes.com