UCLA

After four days of what was supposed to be light-contact work but sometimes went beyond, UCLA finally got into full pads Wednesday, preparing for the first scrimmage on Saturday and the first game two weeks after that by continuing with the same level of energy.

“The only difference is, we don’t get in as much trouble,” defensive end Kenyon Coleman said, a reference to Coach Bob Toledo having to previously crack down, or even discipline, players for previously getting too physical.

Said Toledo on Wednesday, after the second session of the double-day workout: “This morning was real intense and very physical. There was a lot of enthusiasm.

“They’re like a bunch of colts right now. Pretty jumpy and jittery.”

Much of that, Toledo figures, is because of the excitement surrounding the start of the season. But part also comes from the competition for jobs, namely on the defense that has only two senior starters, Brendon Ayanbadejo at outside linebacker and Larry Atkins at strong safety.

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Two Bruins suffered serious injuries Wednesday: Tony Ippolito, the third-string center, is expected to be out six to eight weeks because of a fractured right ankle and Joe Hunter, the defensive back who was probably going to redshirt anyway, will miss four to six weeks because of a sprained ligament in his left knee.

Additionally, freshman Ken Kocher, impressive in the early going at nose guard, had to be carted off after what a preliminary exam showed to be a bruised right ankle. More should be known about his condition today.

Another highly regarded freshman, DeShaun Foster, returned Wednesday after being hobbled by a strained groin. Robert Thomas has a fractured right hand, but should be able to practice with the hand wrapped.