UCLA wants to keep running against Washington State
UCLA FOOTBALL FYI
Kahlil Bell and Derrick Coleman showed their strength against Fresno State. The Cougars' defense has been suspect, but they also have a history of beating the Bruins.
If there was ever an opportunity for a morale boost, this would seem to be the week for the UCLA offense.
The Bruins (1-3 overall, 0-1 in Pacific 10 Conference play), coming off an encouraging performance against Fresno State, face Washington State (1-4, 0-2) at the Rose Bowl Saturday.
The Cougars rank 118th against the run out of 119 Division I teams, giving up 269 yards per game. They also rank 106th in total defense (436 yards per game) and 117th in scoring defense (44.4 points per game).
"We've got to find ways to stop people, whether it is the run or the pass," said Washington State Coach Paul Wulff, who, like UCLA Coach Rick Neuheisel, is in his first season.
"Our offense needs to take pressure off the defense, but ultimately we've got to be a little stronger and a little more aggressive in how we handle ourselves on defense."
The Bruins gained 234 yards rushing against Fresno State, led by Derrick Coleman (86 yards) and Kahlil Bell (73 yards). UCLA was averaging 51 yards rushing in its three previous games.
"I think we developed a little bit and identified which five offensive linemen are going to play," Neuheisel said. "Kahlil Bell is a talented player and he brings leadership to the offense. Nate Chandler did a nice job as tight end. We're a little more physical there. Derrick Coleman is starting to develop. It was an encouraging move in that direction."
So the Bruins in a runaway?
"I don't think we're in a position to look past anyone," Neuheisel said. "In fact, Washington State probably looks at us as a team they can handle."
Trivia time
Since 1991, which Pac-10 team has the best record against UCLA?
Yep, Washington State, which has a 10-4 record against the Bruins.
"I couldn't tell you why that is," Bell said. "I really don't have answer for that.
"The last couple years, they've had good game plans for us, and executed better than us. It's a new year, new day and they're coming into our house. They're going to have to beat us at home."
The Cougars have done that the last three times they visited the Rose Bowl. Still, extending that winning streak to four would seem to require a lot more than Washington State has offered so far this season. The Cougars have been outscored 129-17 in two conference games.
Another late start
UCLA's game against at Oregon on Oct. 11 will start at 7:15 p.m. and be televised on FSN.
chris.foster@latimes.com
