The Scouting Report

STANFORD (2-4, 1-2)

at UCLA (4-3, 1-2)

Today, 3:30 p.m., Rose Bowl

TV -- Fox Sports Net.

Radio -- KXTA (1150).

WHEN UCLA HAS THE BALL

All eyes will be on Matt Moore, the expected starter at quarterback. It will mark the first appearance for the freshman, who was redshirting until injuries to Cory Paus and Drew Olson last week thrust him to center stage. The game plan is simplified and audibles will be at a minimum. Tailback Tyler Ebell should get 30 or more carries against a defense that has allowed only 92 yards in 53 carries the last two games. Moore must complete some passes to keep Stanford from crowding the line of scrimmage. Cardinal linebackers blitz and the defensive ends sometimes fall back into coverage. UCLA quarterbacks were sacked seven times last week and protecting the rail-thin Moore was emphasized in practice.

WHEN STANFORD HAS THE BALL

Redshirt freshman Kyle Matter, Moore’s teammate at Newhall Hart High, is expected to start because Chris Lewis did not practice all week because of a bruised right shoulder. Lewis, however, could play. Tall receiver Teyo Johnson, whose production has slipped since he began the season with back-to-back 100-yard efforts, will draw coverage from cornerback Matt Ware. UCLA is thin at safety because Jibril Raymo (shoulder) is sidelined. Fullback Casey Moore averages 6.2 yards a carry.

KEYS TO UCLA VICTORY

1. Field-good story: Moore must make enough plays for UCLA to win the field-position battle in what should be a low-scoring game.

2. Turning it around: The Bruin defense has not forced any turnovers in the three losses. Recovering fumbles and intercepting passes will be necessary to put the offense in good position.

3. Reverse trend: The UCLA offense must take advantage of red-zone opportunities, a problem all season.