In Close, They Want to Size It Up

With their most bruising running back out because of injury and a kicker who has misfired more than usual, the Bruins are zeroing in on their red-zone offense.

Manuel White, UCLA’s biggest back at 6 feet 3 and 243 pounds, will sit out a second consecutive game because of a hamstring injury.

New starter Tyler Ebell has been outstanding, but he is only 5-9 and 170 pounds.

“That’s where Akil [Harris] has got to play a little bit,” Coach Bob Toledo said. “But there are some places Tyler also can be in. The short-yardage goal line is a concern because we don’t have a big back. Akil [6-0, 215] will assume some of that role.”

The Bruins are 16 of 22 with 11 touchdowns and five field goals when they get inside the 20.

Twice they missed field goals inside the red zone, and once they gave up the ball on downs. (The other three times they didn’t score because the game ended.)

“We need to improve in the red zone area, obviously,” Toledo said. “You’ve got to make kicks when you’re in the red zone.

“It’s interesting. Last week we weren’t down on the goal line, we made so many big plays. We practiced our goal-line offense and didn’t have to use it.

“I’ll take those 70-yard touchdowns. I don’t mind those either. If we don’t have to use goal-line or red zone, I’ll be happy.”

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Much of the concern about Chris Griffith was for his psyche after his missed field goal in the 31-30 loss to Oregon.

But he and the coaches also have tried to figure out what is going on technically to contribute to him going seven of 12 on field goals after missing only three of 13 last season.

One problem has been the low trajectory of some kicks, in addition to accuracy. “We think part of it was probably his plant foot,” Toledo said. “We’re not sure, but out here he’s slipped a little bit, not planting good. And he’s just kicking it a little high [on the ball]. He’s not getting under it enough.”

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About two dozen UCLA players are from Northern California, and many relish the trip to the area.

Two seniors, linebacker Marcus Reese from San Jose and cornerback Joe Hunter from Vacaville, have yet to win at Cal or Stanford.

“For those particular guys, it’s their last go-round,” Toledo said. “Even some of the underclassmen. You talk to [receivers Craig Bragg from San Jose and Tab Perry from Milpitas.] They’re excited about going back too. Any time you’re from an area, like kids that come back to California, they want to look good in front of their friends and family.”

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Receiver Jon Dubravac will not make the trip because of a bruised back.

Josh Roenicke will replace him.