UCLA REPORT

UCLA (0-1) at Illinois (1-0)

Today, 9 a.m., Memorial Stadium.

TV: Channel 7.

Radio: XTRA (690/1150).

WHEN UCLA HAS THE BALL

Last week, with senior Manuel White having a career game, the Bruins ran the ball well against Oklahoma State. Sophomore Maurice Drew also had his moments. Look for Coach Karl Dorrell to rotate them again. Quarterback Drew Olson has to be more accurate than he was a week ago when he completed 16 of 36 passes for 252 yards with two interceptions. The Bruins have to get tight end Marcedes Lewis and wide receiver Tab Perry more involved.

WHEN ILLINOIS HAS THE BALL

Quarterback Jon Beutjer had a strong game against Florida A&M; last week, completing 16 of 18 passes for 228 yards and a touchdown. Sophomore running back Pierre Thomas broke an Illinois opening-game record with 143 yards rushing last week. Redshirt freshman Martin O’Donnell will start in place of injured left guard Bryan Koch, who suffered a season-ending knee injury against Florida A&M.;

KEYS TO UCLA VICTORY

1. Stop the run: Oklahoma State destroyed the Bruins’ run defense last week. That can’t happen again against the Illini, who have a good ground attack but not a great one.

2. Eliminate turnovers: The Bruins hurt themselves with four miscues a week ago, Olson’s throwing two fourth-quarter interceptions. UCLA can’t afford to have its defense on the field too much today.

3. Utilize Marcedes Lewis: One advantage UCLA has over most teams is at tight end with Lewis, who caught only two passes last week. Getting Lewis involved more would only help Olson.

HOW THEY COMPARE

*--* UCLA ILLINOIS 20 Scoring 52 31 Points allowed 13 252 Passing offense 258 191 Rushing offense 296 443 Total offense 554 23 Passing defense 287 426 Rushing defense 71 449 Total defense 358

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