UCLA football: Lucien covers the talking, while Adams just covers

The doldrums of spring practice get a jolt every time UCLA receiver Devin Lucien is involved. He has been as entertaining to the media as he has been impressive on the field through three spring practices.

Lucien had three big receptions Thursday, each for touchdowns. He woofed at reporters as he passed each time, cajoling them to remind people he was here to be a starter.

Nothing changed Saturday. He twirled his finger to reporters after making a touchdown catch in individual drills Saturday. Then he ran into a teammate who had a silent version of the same attitude.

Cornerback Ishmael Adams flicked the ball out of Lucien’s hands, then picked it out of the air for an interception. Lucien answered by catching two touchdown passes against Adams.

After the second, Lucien barked out to reporters, “I told you, I said it. This is a go.”

Afterward Lucien claimed victory, though he gave Adams the edge in style on the interception.

“I love Devin’s passion,” Coach Jim Mora said.

Lucien is on a mission, after missing eight games with a broken collarbone.

“These first five or six practices are like games for me,” Lucien said. “I want to make up for what I missed.”

And with a goal he isn’t shy about sharing -- even during practice.

“Believe me, I’m coming for that spot,” Lucien said. “I’m not scared to say so.”

Adams is on the same mission. He missed the last 12 games after undergoing shoulder surgery. His participation is being limited this spring, but he has still been the Bruins’ best cornerback.

“I’m just working, trying to stay humble,” Adams said. “When you get a big head, that’s when things get in the way.”

Not that he was speaking about Lucien.

“Oh no, he’s focused, putting it out there in a different way,” Adams said. “I’m showing it more in actions, not words. He’s doing a little of both. I’m trying to do it one at a time.”

ALSO:

Veteran Angela Stanford shoots 66 at Kraft Nabisco

New world No. 1 Stacy Lewis struggles at Kraft Nabisco

Video: Girlfriend goes crazy after boyfriend catches foul ball