One would think that there would be a special connection this
spring when freshman quarterback Pat Cowan and his brother Joe, a
wide receiver, hit the field in practice. But after having a solid
season on the scout team last year and currently enjoying a
standout spring, Pat sees his brother just like any receiver
running patterns. “It’s fun throwing to Joe, but
it’s the same as throwing to (receiver) Marcus
Everett,” Pat said. “He’s my brother, which is
cool, but he’s like any other receiver.” Joe reiterates
the sentiment, saying that he sees his brother like any other
quarterback. Thus far, Pat, 6-foot-4 and 210 lbs., is demonstrating
his strong arm and tall presence in the pocket. Because of his
play, UCLA coach Karl Dorrell has made a point of directing
attention towards Pat as a notable player where he could improve
his standing on the depth chart for next season’s quarterback
position. But with the competition heating up for starting
quarterback, Dorrell also clarified Tuesday that the starting
position is still in the hands of senior Drew Olson, despite his
injury which will prohibit him from returning until at least fall
camp. However, any decision regarding the position won’t be
determined until fall camp. “The decision on who’s
going to be quarterback, that will be carried all the way down deep
into August,” Dorrell said. “Right now we have a
starter and as far as I know he is still the starter.”
NEW PLACE FOR DAVIS: After having played at defensive end all
last season, sophomore Bruce Davis could find a new position at
linebacker, Dorrell said Tuesday. Davis was moved there this spring
to help out the heavily depleted position, but has shown so much
progress there that the swap could result in a permanent change.
“He’s been a pleasant surprise,” Dorrell said.
“At first he was a guy just filling in a spot because we were
so thin there and now we think he has a real future there.
It’s probably heading in that direction (for him to stay at
linebacker).” “He’s enjoying it, he’s
getting a feel for it. He’s flying around the field making
plays.”
INJURY REPORT: Tailback Maurice Drew returned to practice after
sitting out Monday due to migraines. Dorrell said he is still
suffering with headaches but the pain has subsided enough for him
to practice … Offensive lineman Aaron Meyer sat out of practice
with a bad back.