Monday media day I: "We know that it’s now or never really"

UCLA running back Chris Markey is one of seven seniors slated to start on offense this week at Stanford and he was clear about how 2007 is different from the past.

"We have sense of urgency this year. We know that it’s now or never really. Our defense has come along and we feel that we have to catch up.

"We have a strong offense as far as talent and it’s going to be disappointing if we don’t do anything with it. We have the players to make a run for this conference championship and for the BCS title."

Wow! Markey noted that the team’s focus is squarely on the conference championship and that the offense has to produce. He’s especially excited about this year’s offensive line, led by guards Shannon Tevaga and Noah Sutherland and center Chris Joseph.

"Those guys really worked hard this off-season. I know how hard they are working and how dedicated they are to doing their job, so this season, I expect big things from ‘em. If we put everything together, it’s going to hard to stop us in the run game."

Markey expects big things personally as well. "I want to rush for 1,500 yards plus," he said.

"I want to produce more in scoring; last year, I had two touchdowns and as a running back, I want to score more." He amassed 1,107 yards last season for a 4.9 yards-per-carry average.

The senior running back also noted that it’s the little things that will make a difference this season for the Bruins, especially with new offensive coordinator Jay Norvell. "Coach Norvell is a great coach; he emphasizes focusing in on the details and I think that’s what going to be a difference this year with the offense."

And he understands exactly what the situation is. "We’ve been having mediocre seasons for the last 4-5 years. I really feel that it’s time for us to step up.

"We have to win the title, I feel, to get respect in this conference and by having another mediocre season that won’t do it for us."