Bye Brings Rejuvenation

Unable to say for sure whether the bye week will translate into improved play Saturday against Washington, the Bruins are at least showing that the extended time off has rejuvenated their spirits.

“There’s been a lot more fire,” said Audie Attar, the backup strong safety. “That week off, I felt like we were playing a game every day the way guys were reacting on the field. There was a lot of yelling, a lot of screaming.”

That has carried into practice this week and the days leading up to game against the conference-leading Huskies at the Rose Bowl. The workouts have been more spirited than before some previous games.

In that way, at least, UCLA is recovering.

“I see a lot more spirit in them,” Coach Bob Toledo said. “I see a little electricity. Like I told them, I see them running around and doing a good job.”

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The Bruins will honor current military personnel and veterans Saturday with ceremonies before and during the game and by offering discounts on tickets. Those may be purchased through the Central ticket office on campus or by calling (310) UCLA-WIN to order seats. Anyone in uniform or showing valid military identification will receive either one free general admission ticket or a buy-one, get-one-free offer on reserved seats. . . . Toledo is giving the nod to seniors in some cases when deciding on starters for the final home game, but the consideration of going with Randy Hakes at tight end over Gabe Crecion is all about actual play. Hakes, a senior, has been one of the most improved Bruins since the start of the season.