Olson might be ready for Trojans

If Ben Olson’s knee injury continues to improve, there’s a good chance that the UCLA sophomore quarterback will start against USC on Dec. 2, according to Coach Karl Dorrell.

“But I want to make sure that he’s ready,” Dorrell said after Tuesday’s practice. “He’s feeling close to 100%, so physically, he’s feeling a whole lot better.... But mentally, I have to make sure -- and he has to make sure -- that he’s ready to go for this type of game.”

Olson tore a ligament in his left knee Oct. 7 against Arizona and has not played since.

Two weeks ago, he returned to practice and has worked as the No. 2 quarterback behind Patrick Cowan, who is 2-4 as starter since Olson’s injury.

“Pat knows as well what the plans are,” Dorrell said. “They are both on the same page. We’re trying to win a ballgame and we’re going to try and do it the best way we can.”

Based on how his knee felt on Tuesday compared to a week ago, Olson said he’ll be ready to start against the Trojans.

“I feel really good,” said Olson, who has completed 63.7% of his passes for 822 yards and five touchdowns with five interceptions. “I haven’t played in a long time, so my body, as far as being nicked and dinged up, feels good. I feel like I can play with no problem.”

Cowan, who made key plays in leading UCLA to victories over Oregon State and Arizona State, said he understands that the decision is out of his control.

“All I’m going to do is prepare for the game as if I’m starting,” said Cowan, who has completed 53.9% of his attempts for 1,428 yards and nine touchdowns with seven interceptions.

“If I’m not starting, I’m still preparing for the game. If my number is called, I’ll be ready to play.”

Added Dorrell: “We probably won’t make a final determination until next week.”

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UCLA sophomore running back Kahlil Bell, who has not played since he suffered an ankle injury at Notre Dame, was suspended by Dorrell for violating team rules and will not play against USC.... The bowl picture for the Bruins (6-5 overall, 4-4 in the Pacific 10 Conference) is still unclear but they still have a chance to gain bids to the Las Vegas, Emerald, Sheraton Hawaii and Poinsettia Bowls.... UCLA will practice today and Saturday before starting its regular practice week for USC.... Dorrell said freshman Jeremy McGee, who did not attend last week’s game at Arizona State because of the death of his mother in Louisiana, is expected to return to the team next week.

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lonnie.white@latimes.com