UCLA football is entering a new era under head coach Bob Chesney this season. After a disastrous 0-4 start to last season and a mid-season coaching change, the 2026 season will give the Bruins an opportunity to rewrite the narrative surrounding the program. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who transferred to UCLA from Tennessee last season, is back for his second season with the Bruins.
The 2025 season was not the ideal start to Iamaleava's career in Westwood, so Iamaleava will playing with more to prove this season. Iamaleava told reporters that UCLA's underdog status is going to help fuel the team this season. Last year wasn’t a great year for us,” Iamaleava said.
The new Bruins will be on full display in their season opener against California on Sept. 5 at the California Memorial Stadium. Then, a week later, UCLA will be back at the Rose Bowl for a home opener against San Diego State. UCLA's first Big Ten conference game will be against Purdue on Sept. 19 at the Rose Bowl.
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