UCLA NOTES

Washington State (3-5, 1-4) at UCLA (3-2, 5-3)

Today, 12:30 p.m., Rose Bowl

TV: None. Radio: XTRA (690/1150).

WHEN UCLA HAS THE BALL

The Bruins are expected to continue their three-running back rotation with Maurice Drew, Manuel White and Chris Markey. Coach Karl Dorrell likes going with a fresh back unless one starts having a breakout game. Receiver Craig Bragg, who has been bothered by injury, will be available in the starting lineup but expect quarterback Drew Olson to continue to spread the ball around.

WHEN WASHINGTON STATE HAS THE BALL

Redshirt freshman Alex Brink will start at quarterback in place of injured Josh Swogger. Brink has completed 42.5% of his passes with four interceptions and three touchdowns. Jerome Harrison leads the Cougars in rushing with 385 yards and five touchdowns, and averages 4.6 yards a carry.

KEYS TO UCLA VICTORY

1. Score early. The Bruins need to get an early lead and take away any hope that the Cougars have for an upset road victory.

2. Create turnovers. With Washington State’s history of problems with turnovers, the Bruins will try to force as many as possible.

3. Stop Bumpus. Michael Bumpus is averaging 10.7 yards a punt return and has the ability to spark the Cougars’ special teams.

HOW THEY COMPARE

*--* UCLA WASH. ST. 31.6 Scoring 23.5 24.8 Points Allowed 26 227.7 Passing Offense 248.2 217.7 Rushing Offense 99.1 445.5 Total offense 347.3 215.7 Passing Defense 227.6 218 Rushing Defense 143.6 433.7 Total Defense 371.2

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