COLLEGE FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : UCLA : Fien Might Provide Some Insurance

There is a growing sense that Ryan Fien is UCLA’s insurance policy at quarterback, although he might ask the Pacific 10 Conference for a medical redshirt designation if starter Wayne Cook is able to play out the season and the Bruins are successful.

Fien, a sophomore from Simi Valley, was one of three players in a quarterback derby before the season, Cook emerging as the starter. Fien, a true sophomore, was tabbed No. 2 and Rob Walker No. 3.

In the Bruins’ four games, Fien has played only one down, throwing an incomplete pass against California after Cook was sent to the sideline by officials because his chin was bleeding.

Walker played in the closing moments against San Diego State last week, throwing a touchdown pass. Fien had flu during the week and did not take a snap in practice. He has talked of having trouble with a foot injury that he suffered last season.

“If he feels healthy enough and if he feels good enough, he’s our second-string quarterback,” Coach Terry Donahue said. “It’s not really his choice. If he’s physically able to play, he has to play. If he’s physically unable to play, he can’t play.”