L.A. Daily Breeze: Players supportive of positive Dorrell

Coach Karl Dorrell is under fire from alumni and disgruntled fans in his fourth year as the head of UCLA's football program with the team 4-4 after a three-game losing streak.  But there's no doubt his players still respect him and support him.  "The only interaction I have is with Coach Dorrell and the defensive coaches," junior linebacker Christian Taylor said Monday, echoing statements made by other Bruins in recent weeks. "Guys are in position. The guys were there on every single play. We just have to make the play.  "When you're 4-4 at UCLA, this is what happens. Coach Dorrell is a real good coach."  Expressing a strong positive attitude at his weekly press conference, Dorrell said he's sure the Bruins are on the same page and ready to give a great effort Saturday at California.  "We're confident as a team we can go there and play a good football game," Dorrell said. "I like the attitude of this team. The guys will continue to fight."

UCLA injury report

The injuries are piling up on UCLA, but it is still a manageable situation. Wide receiver Branden Breazell suffered a rib cage injury and played little Saturday, but he should be capable of playing at Cal, Dorrell said. Linebacker Aaron Whittington was limited by an ankle injury, but should play at Cal.  Running back Kahlil Bell (ankle) didn't play Saturday and is doubtful for Cal. But the Bruins played two backups against Washington State (Derrick Williams and Chane Moline) who picked up the slack. Sophomore quarterback Ben Olson is about 60 percent recovered from his torn medial collateral ligament, Dorrell said, and could practice this week. But he likely will be no more than a backup until he's stronger, Dorrell said.  Punt returner Terrence Austin has missed two games with a hamstring strain, but might return to active duty this week.

Van still driving

Cornerback Rodney Van was beaten a number of times Saturday, but Dorrell didn't think he deserved too much criticism.  "We haven't lost confidence in Rodney Van," Dorrell said. "We ran into a very hot quarterback. He put the ball right where it needed to be. In most cases, the coverage was right there."  True freshman Alterraun Verner sees playing time as Van's backup and in nickel situations.