UCLA’s Johnathan Franklin is battling through injuries

UCLA running back Johnathan Franklin was slowed in the second half against California because of minor injuries, Coach Jim Mora said.

Franklin had a muscle contusion in his calf and a bruised hand. He finished with 103 yards in 15 carries. He ranks seventh in the nation, averaging 133.32 yards.

“We limited his number of plays,” Mora said. “A lot of his second-half production had to do with him being banged up. We had to move him in and out.”

Franklin had only two carries in the fourth quarter. Of his 53 yards rushing in the second half, 26 came on one run early in the third quarter.

“This is the time of the season where running backs start to feel the hits,” Mora said.

Mora said Franklin may sit out practice Tuesday.

Franklin has 800 yards rushing this season, averaging 7.4 yards per carry.

Jordon James and Damien Thigpen filled in for Franklin. James had 14 yards rushing and Thigpen five.

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