SEC recall dogs Neuheisel

LOS ANGELES - UCLA coach Rick Neuheisel doesn't have fond memories of his first season opener against an SEC team.

Neuheisel, whose Bruins open the 2008 season against Tennessee on Monday night, made his first start at quarterback for the Bruins in the 1983 opener against Georgia. He got the full-Bulldog experience at Sanford Stadium.

"I knew it would be a tough night when Uga threw up on my shoes," he said. "I don't remember which Uga it was."

Neuheisel threw a crucial fourth-quarter interception as the Bulldogs claimed a 19-8 victory, and Uga IV went home happy.

The loss in Athens was part of a rocky beginning for the 1983 Bruins, who started the year 0-3-1. They then won six of their last seven regular-season games to win the Pac-10 championship.

In the Rose Bowl, Neuheisel overcame food poisoning to throw for four touchdowns in UCLA's 45-9 victory over Illinois.

Speed Read: Neuheisel expressed the same concern you hear from most coaches when preparing for an SEC team: speed on defense.

"Schematically, they're extremely sound," Neuheisel said. "It's not overly complicated, but (defensive coordinator John Chavis' system) allows his players to be free of mind to run and run and run.

"You'll get guys open but not for long."

Sudden Impact: Freshman Rahim Moore, a high school All-American defensive back, has the look of a future star, according to some of the media who have covered UCLA's preseason training camp. He will open the season as one of the Bruins' starting safeties.

"I've got high expectations for Rahim," Neuheisel said. "I don't think you put a freshman into the fray unless you have high expectations.

"I'm thrilled with some of our freshmen. There will be growing pains, but there are a host of kids who have blossomed early."

Injury Update: Starting offensive tackle Micah Kia, who has missed practice time with a broken hand, practiced with his habd in a cast Monday. ... All-Pac-10 defensive tackle Brigham Harwell, who has been bothered by back spasms, is expected to be at full speed for today’s practice. ... Wide receiver Terrence Austin injured his wrist in practice, but Neuheisel said X-rays were negative and he expects Austin to be OK for the game.

Sports editor John Adams may be reached at 865-342-6284 or adamsj@knoxnews.com.

© 2008, Knoxville News Sentinel Co.
Want to use this article? Click here for options!