UCLA football: Rick Neuheisel wants more from his quarterback

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

As a former quarterback, UCLA Coach Rick Neuheisel will always have his two cents to share when it comes to the position. Bruins quarterback Kevin Prince collects that cash some days.

‘Kevin does a great job, but I want him to be more urgent about learning what defenses do,’ Neuheisel said. ‘I want him to be ahead of them rather than trying to catch up when the ball is snapped. You can’t play that way.’

Prince already seems to have a handle on being the No. 1 quarterback, especially the responsibility part.

‘I have to make sure we do things right,’ Prince said. ‘Like jumping offside. We did that too much the other day and we all had to do up-downs after practice. I need to be the one who gets that done right.’

Pre-practice notes:

--Defensive tackle Jess Ward, who has been sideline with a sprained knee, said he would begin running today and hopes ‘to be doing a lot more’ in the next few days. Ward is doubtful for the season opener against San Diego State on Sept. 5, but may be ready for Tennessee on Sept. 12.

--Kicker Kai Forbath has to squeeze into his cleats every day. He wears a shoe one size too small on his left foot and three sizes too small on his right (kicking) foot. The reason: ‘You want to create a harder surface to kick with,’ Forbath said.

--Wide receiver Gavin Ketchum, who reinjured his hamstring Wednesday, was not dressed for practice.

--Fullback Chane Moline, who sat out Wednesday with a hip flexor, appeared ready to practice Thursday, Guard Stanley Hasiak, who sat out with a sore shoulder Wednesday, was also in pads with a helmet Thursday.

-- Chris Foster