Toledo Welcomes Calm

The Bruins got a short pep talk from first-year Athletic Director Dan Guerrero after an upbeat and lively practice.

“This is his first [UCLA-USC] game,” Coach Bob Toledo said.

Toledo was smiling because there are no off-field problems. Two days before the USC game a year ago, the arrests of quarterback Cory Paus for driving under the influence came to light.

“We feel good about ourselves, and I feel good,” Toledo said. “We’re excited about playing a meaningful game.”

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Defensive back Ricky Manning apologized for obscene comments he made about USC at a bonfire and rally on the UCLA campus Tuesday night. Speaking in front of an estimated 1,500 Bruin fans, Manning led an obscene chant that was caught on camera by a local television station.

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Rose Bowl officials suggest that fans arrive at least three hours before the 12:30 kickoff and avoid the 110 Freeway and the Orange Grove and Colorado boulevard exits off the 134 Freeway. An alternate route is to take the 2 Freeway to the 210 east and exit at Berkshire, Seco/Mountain or Arroyo.

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Manning must appear in Superior Court today, but his preliminary hearing is expected to be delayed until January. He was charged with felony assault stemming from a fight in April.... Receiver Ryan Smith received permission from UCLA doctors to have a foot specialist perform surgery on his ankle Dec. 4.... There are fewer than 1,000 tickets available for Saturday’s game.