HOW THEY MATCH UP

When UCLA has the ball--The Bruins will continue the familiar pattern of running DeShaun Foster until the opposition brings eight or nine defenders close to the line of scrimmage. Quarterback Cory Paus will try to do what he does best--strike deep--throughout the game. But he must improve his accuracy on short and medium-range passes for the offense to really click. Washington is vulnerable at outside linebacker. Former Westchester High standout Larry Tripplett heads a strong defensive line.

When Washington has the ball--Backup Taylor Barton is on the spot at quarterback. Sensational freshman receiver Reggie Williams is Washington’s big-play threat and Barton will go to him often. Starting running backs have averaged only 40 yards against UCLA, and the Husky tandem of Willie Hurst and Rich Alexis won’t have much running room. The Bruins have not been kind to quarterbacks, either. Their goal will be to hit Barton early and often.

Key to the game--Time of possession. Washington is 18-0 under Coach Rick Neuheisel in games the Huskies have had the ball more than 30 minutes. In last year’s 35-28 victory over UCLA, Washington’s time of possession was 38:39.

Fast fact--Washington has won 12 in a row since losing at Oregon last October.

The pick--Washington has a knack for staying close and finding a way to win in the fourth quarter. UCLA needs to put the game away when it has the opportunity, which most likely will come in the third quarter. The Bruins have outscored opponents in the third period, 44-0.

The line--UCLA by 13.