Bonds Surprised When He Gets Word of Starting Assignment

Jim Bonds said Wednesday there were no hints that he would be named UCLA’s starting quarterback, replacing Bret Johnson.

Bonds, who backed up Johnson last year, said he was informed by offensive coordinator Homer Smith early in Tuesday’s afternoon offensive practice that he is the No. 1 quarterback.

“I didn’t have any indication,” said Bonds, a junior. “I had some good practices, but there was no indication that I had it locked up. Our repetitions (with Johnson) were pretty equal.

“I’m very excited. It’s something I’ve worked for, for three years. I never dreamed it would come true.”

Johnson didn’t show up for the afternoon practice, and Bonds said he had an inkling that “something was up.”

As for his relationship with Johnson, Bonds said:

“We got along fine last year. I hope he decides to come back and help our team out some way. We’re friends. I know how he feels and I know what he’s going through.”

Bonds, from Hart High in Newhall, lost the starting job to Johnson last year based on performances in a scrimmage a week before the season-opening game against Tennessee.

Asked if he considered transferring at the time, Bonds said: “It may have popped into my mind, but I value the education here and I’m happy at UCLA. I didn’t think twice about it.”

Bonds, a right-handed passer who holds on kicks, dislocated a finger on his left hand while taking a low snap from center Monday, but it’s not considered serious.