Start for Ebell Is a No-Brainer

The decision to start Tyler Ebell at tailback against Oregon on Saturday ahead of the more experienced Akil Harris was not difficult.

“It’s real simple, [Ebell] rushed for 200 yards,” Coach Bob Toledo said.

Coaches were impressed that Ebell, who gained 203 yards in three quarters against Oregon State, was prepared from the moment he replaced the injured Manuel White.

“He hasn’t got a lot of reps in practice, yet he got his opportunity and played very well,” Toledo said.

White started at fullback for four games and performed so well he earned a start at tailback against the Beavers. However, the hamstring injury he suffered in the first quarter probably will keep him sidelined Saturday.

Ebell is ready for a reprise.

“I still have to show I’m not a one-game wonder,” he said.

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Defensive tackle Rodney Leisle will have surgery today on his right foot and will be out at least four weeks. A screw will be inserted to stabilize a stress fracture.

“We’ll miss him on the pass rush more than anything,” Toledo said. “He is such a force.”

Ryan Boschetti, a junior college transfer, will start in Leisle’s place. Boschetti has 10 tackles, including one for a loss.

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Kickoff for UCLA’s game at California on Oct. 19 has been set for 4 p.m. The game will be televised on TBS.