UCLA (2-1) at San Diego State (0-4)

Today, 11 a.m., Qualcomm Stadium

TV--ESPN2. Radio--KSPN (1110)

WHEN UCLA HAS THE BALL

Bruin fans have expressed dismay over Coach Bob Toledo’s conservative first-half play calling, but establishing the running game is the prudent course this week. UCLA will play ball control, hoping to limit San Diego State’s possessions. Tailbacks Akil Harris and Manuel White could have big games. Also look for tight end Mike Seidman to be a deep target. Getting into the red zone will be important--the Bruins moved inside the 20-yard line only twice against Colorado.

WHEN SAN DIEGO STATE HAS THE BALL

The Aztecs are 12th in the nation in total offense and second in passing. Quarterback Adam Hall has thrown for 1,621 yards and nine touchdowns. UCLA will play more nickel and dime packages than at any time in the two-year tenure of defensive coordinator Phil Snow. The revamped secondary must tackle well. Matt Ware will move from free safety to cornerback opposite Ricky Manning. Ben Emanuel will play free safety and freshman Jarrad Page and sophomore Jibri Raymo will share strong safety duties. Cornerbacks Joe Hunter and Matt Clark will replace linebackers in the nickel and dime alignments. UCLA opponents have converted 38.6% of their third downs, ninth in the Pac-10.

KEYS TO UCLA VICTORY

1. Slowing the potent San Diego State passing attack by not letting receivers J.R. Tolver and Kassim Osgood break runs after the catch.

2. Sticking to the game plan and generating a balanced attack rather than getting into an aerial duel with the Aztecs.

3. Winning the turnover battle. The Bruins forced seven turnovers in their two victories and none in the loss to Colorado. San Diego State has a turnover ratio of minus-5.

HOW THEY COMPARE

*--* UCLA SDSU 28.3 Scoring 23.5 24.7 Points Allowed 34.3 221.7 Passing Offense 405.2 155.3 Rushing Offense 54.2 377.0 Total offense 459.4 198.0 Passing Defense 244.2 199.3 Rushing Defense 147.0 397.3 Total Defense 391.2

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