And the nominees are …
By Daily Bruin Staff
Nov. 2, 2000 9:00 p.m.
And the nominees for Homecoming King are …
Mr. Prime Time Ricky Manning A
minor league outfielder for the Minnesota Twins in the offseason,
cornerback Ricky Manning is one of the most versatile players on
the Bruin defense. Already a vicious tackler as a sophomore, Ricky
also leads the team with four interceptions on the year. The former
high school quarterback poses one of the more intimidating threats
in the conference as a punt returner. Mr. Warrior
Rusty Williams Rusty made his 19th straight start
against Arizona, despite the fact that he’s been roughed up all
season long. The redshirt sophomore has been the backbone of a
beleaguered defensive front, accounting for 16 stops and two fumble
recoveries. A team leader by example, Rusty excels at rushing the
quarterback. Mr. Playmaker Freddie
Mitchell Most likely the flashiest personality on the
Bruin squad, the flanker is making a name for himself by having
cameos on “Pacific Blue" and spending late nights at the
Playboy Mansion with supermodel and friend Elizabeth Hurley. On the
field he isn’t too bad either: a human highlight reel, Freddie’s in
good position for the Biletnikoff Award, as he’s averaged 115.5
receiving yards per game, second in the nation. Mr.
Reliable Brian Polak A pre-season
All-American, the 6-foot-4 319-pound senior is the most experienced
lineman among UCLA’s front five. Brian’s stint of 32 consecutive
starts is the most of any Bruin, and his commitment to being a team
player is noted by his move from left tackle to right guard in the
offseason. Mr. He’s Got Leg Nate
Fikse Nate is certainly making a mark this season,
averaging well over three yards more per punt than anyone else in
the conference. His 43.8 average on 54 kicks is first in the Pac-10
and 11th in the nation. Thirteen of those punts were downed inside
the 20-yard line. Nate was also recently added to the “Watch
List" for the Ray Guy Award, which is presented to the nation’s top
punter. Web Adaptation by EVELYN HSU