UCLA SEEKS SOLUTION TO OFFENSIVE STRUGGLES.

Byline: Billy Witz Staff Writer

When the UCLA offense takes to the field, it suddenly looks more like it's trying to move a boulder than a football.

Almost every yard the Bruins earn now is a struggle. The unit that played with patience and determination for two months suddenly has become desperate and unfocused.

The offensive line, in its eagerness to spring DeShaun Foster, committed five penalties. Foster, in his eagerness to break off a big run, lost a critical fumble at the opponent's 20-yard line for the second week in a row. Quarterback Cory Paus, feeling the pressure of the running game's ineffectiveness and his own struggles, made the rash decisions he'd avoided so successfully.

Even UCLA coach Bob Toledo is grasping for a solution.

He was desperate enough to start third-string quarterback Ryan McCann - an unfathomable thought little more than a week ago. He also tried a few wrinkles, such as an unbalanced line, a flanker screen and an option play, to try to muster something positive.

In the aftermath of Saturday's 20-14 loss, Toledo seemed as beaten as his players.

``It's a very empty feeling,'' said Toledo, whose offense has committed 11 turnovers the past two weeks. ``We have a lot of holes in the dike.''

The seriousness of Tab Perry's injuries, which became known Sunday, were just another blow.

If there's any good news it's that the Bruins will return home to play Oregon at a sold-out Rose Bowl and that three seniors who are capable or resuscitating the offense may return from injuries.

Center Troy Danoff, who is recovering from a sprained ankle and separated shoulder, is expected to return, lending an experienced hand to the center of the offensive line. Receiver Brian Poli-Dixon, who has missed the past three games with a dislocated shoulder, could give the receiving corps the big-play threat it so desperately lacks.

Most important would be the presence of Scott McEwan at quarterback. He played well enough against Stanford, executing the short third-down passes and displaying a cool hand, to inspire the confidence of his teammates.

UP NEXT

Saturday vs. Oregon

12:30 p.m.

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REPORT CARD: UCLA vs. WASHINGTON STATE (see text)