Quick hitters from the Arizona Wildcats’ post-practice media availability Tuesday morning:
* UA coach Rich Rodriguez said senior receiver Samajie Grant is getting some reps at running back this week. Arizona is banged up at that position with J.J. Taylor likely out for the season and Nick Wilson’s status uncertain for UCLA because of ankle injuries.
* Grant played tailback in high school. “He’s just an explosive player,” Rodriguez said. “I’d like to get him some more touches anyway because he can do some things with the ball."
* Another Arizona RB option: walk-on Branden Leon. Said Rodriguez: "He’s a tough guy. He runs hard. He’s got some good skills. He’s really worked hard getting bigger, stronger and faster."
* Receiver Shawn Poindexter was on crutches with a boot on his right foot as he made his way from the practice field to the locker room. He got hurt against Washington after catching three passes for 29 yards in the first quarter.
* Linebacker DeAndre’ Miller (ankle) had a green jersey on, indicating limited practice participation. That could be a good sign after Miller missed last week’s game.
* Despite injuries piling up again, Rodriguez doesn't plan to make any changes to Arizona’s training or practice regimens. "I have 100 percent confidence in our training methods,” he said. “It’s just bad luck.”
* Rodriguez comparing UCLA's defense to Washington's: "Very similar. They might be a little faster on the edge. Their secondary is outstanding."
* Rodriguez on some of his past running QBs: "Pat White was just take one step and boy, he’s full speed. Denard Robinson was a freak." Brandon Dawkins looks like the next great running quarterback under Rodriguez, and I’ll have more on Dawkins’ running ability later today.
* Rodriguez on Dawkins' confidence/personality: "He’s a Snapchat/Instagram king. I’m sure he gets a lot of likes."
* Rodriguez has his limits regarding social media and recruits: "You want to give them attention, but what are we, schoolgirls chasing Justin Bieber? Give me a break.”
* The Wildcats practiced on the grass at Kindall/Sancet despite intermittent rain throughout the morning.
