Injuries weigh on middle of defense

UCLA’s defense, which has supported the Bruins’ hold on a share of first place in the Pacific 10 Conference, could be significantly weaker in the middle this week.

Linebacker Christian Taylor (concussion) and defensive tackle Jess Ward (knee injury) appear to be doubtful for Saturday’s game against Washington State. Ward had been filling in for the injured Brigham Harwell (knee), who will try to return to practice this week.

Taylor was injured while tackling California’s Justin Forsett near the end of the Bruins’ 30-21 victory over the Bears on Saturday. Taylor then had a small seizure on the sideline and was taken to the hospital. He was released early Saturday evening.

“His symptoms are starting to wane,” Coach Karl Dorrell said. “He had a slight headache yesterday, but felt better. He desires to play very badly this week. We’ll monitor him, as will the doctors, to make sure to do all the precautionary measures to do what is right in his case.”

Junior John Hale replaced Taylor on Saturday.

Ward underwent an MRI exam on Monday, and Dorrell said, “We don’t know if it’s a major injury right now.”

Defensive tackle Jerzy Siewierski suffered a minor shoulder injury against California. Those injuries could open more playing time for freshman Brian Price, who has been impressive in his limited time.

“Brian will continue to be brought along and will be more a factor as the season moves forward,” Dorrell said.

Harwell, meanwhile, will be “working in individual drills and team work this week,” said Dorrell, who added, “We’ll see how far he’s progressed.”

Defensive end Nikola Dragovic (hip injury) will also try to return to the practice field after spending the last two weeks rehabilitating.

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UCLA’s football program netted $6.6 million in the last fiscal year, allowing the athletic department to break even, according to figures released under the Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act. That could improve next year. More than 48,000 season tickets were sold this season, a UCLA record.

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chris.foster@latimes.com