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UCLA Thumped 43–10 by Utah as Nico Iamaleava Struggles in Debut

The performance intensified scrutiny of DeShaun Foster, undercutting offseason optimism about a quick turnaround.

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UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava (9) drops back to pass against Utah during first half of their game at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025.(Photo by Andy Holzman, Contributing Photographer)
Aug 30, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava (9) following the loss against the Utah Utes during the second half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Overview

  • In his first start for the Bruins, Nico Iamaleava went 11-of-22 for 136 yards with one touchdown and one interception and added a team-high 47 rushing yards.
  • Utah pressured Iamaleava on half his dropbacks, sacked him four times, and UCLA managed just 84 rushing yards as protection and run-game issues resurfaced.
  • The Bruins’ defense yielded 492 yards and allowed Utah to convert 14 of 16 third downs, including a 20-play touchdown drive to open the second half.
  • A sparse Rose Bowl crowd of 35,032 featured a large Utah contingent, compounding concerns about the program’s traction with fans.
  • Foster and players called the loss a learning experience, but the lopsided opener heightens doubts ahead of a demanding slate that includes trips to Indiana, Michigan State and Ohio State and home dates with Penn State, Washington and Nebraska.