UCLA football: Defensive end Ellis McCarthy misses practice

UCLA starts the week a little beat up.

The Bruins have had few injuries through the first three games but returned from Utah on Thursday with a much more crowded training room.

Defensive lineman Ellis McCarthy was added to the list. He missed practice Monday with an undisclosed injury. His availability for Saturday’s game against California is unknown.

McCarthy started at left defensive end the first four games. He can also play nose tackle. If he is unable to play, first-year freshman Eddie Vanderdoes will likely start.

Losing McCarthy hurts UCLA’s depth. The Bruins rotate defensive linemen liberally, something that becomes even more vital against an up-tempo team like California.

McCarthy was injured against Utah. The Bruins lost two other key players in that game. Torian White, UCLA’s starting left tackle, broke a bone in his leg and tore a ligament. He is out for the season. Running back Jordon James, the team’s leading rusher, suffered an ankle injury and is not expected to play this week.

UCLA plays California at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in the Rose Bowl.

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