WSU vs. UCLA: Three things to watch

1 Just as they Drew it up: Maurice Drew injured his ankle after just one carry for minus-6 yards last year against WSU, so the Cougars can probably expect to see a better UCLA rushing attack this time around. But as superb as the tailback is in the backfield, Drew may be even better on punt returns, where he’s averaging 33.8 yards per return this season.

WSU punter Kyle Basler doesn’t seem to be getting the same hang time he once did, and head coach Bill Doba has said the Cougars will kick the ball away from Drew, perhaps out of bounds. That’s probably a good idea, as a shorter punt with no return may be miles better than a good punt that comes back for a touchdown.

If the Bruins want Drew to touch the ball, they’ll have to hand it to him on offense – not a bad deal at all if you’re WSU.