2 months ago
PASADENA, Calif. - For three quarters and seven minutes, Bob Chesney's Rose Bowl debut was a dull affair, then just as quickly, the Bruins gave their faithful fans and historic stadium plenty to cheer about.
The SDSU Aztecs came to town looking to present a challenge and they certainly didn't make things easy on the Bruins, nor did the Bruins make things easy back. Both siders traded drives where they accomplished relatively nothing. So much nothing in fact the first play to go past the 50-yard line and into opposing territory didn't happen until Brian Rowe Jr. caught a pass with 11:47 left in the second quarter and both sides went into halftime tied 0-0.
Neither side particularly excelled with their passing, even if UCLA had the slight edge through the first half and finished with a much larger edge with 151 net passing yards to just 45 by SDSU and both sides were equally unsuccessful in their rushing attempts early on, but things started to change for UCLA in the second half.
"That is not the way we want to play football, obviously in the first half," Chesney said. "But at the same point in time, that's where we found ourselves. And I think every once in a while, it wasn't pretty, but it was gritty, and you need one of those."
UCLA struck first with a rushing touchdown courtesy of fifth-year running back Wayne Knight early in the third quarter, but UCLA could have scored far earlier than that if senior quarterback Nico Iamaleava made a different decision in a critical moment.
#first #things
The SDSU Aztecs came to town looking to present a challenge and they certainly didn't make things easy on the Bruins, nor did the Bruins make things easy back. Both siders traded drives where they accomplished relatively nothing. So much nothing in fact the first play to go past the 50-yard line and into opposing territory didn't happen until Brian Rowe Jr. caught a pass with 11:47 left in the second quarter and both sides went into halftime tied 0-0.
Neither side particularly excelled with their passing, even if UCLA had the slight edge through the first half and finished with a much larger edge with 151 net passing yards to just 45 by SDSU and both sides were equally unsuccessful in their rushing attempts early on, but things started to change for UCLA in the second half.
"That is not the way we want to play football, obviously in the first half," Chesney said. "But at the same point in time, that's where we found ourselves. And I think every once in a while, it wasn't pretty, but it was gritty, and you need one of those."
UCLA struck first with a rushing touchdown courtesy of fifth-year running back Wayne Knight early in the third quarter, but UCLA could have scored far earlier than that if senior quarterback Nico Iamaleava made a different decision in a critical moment.
#first #things
2 months ago
The UCLA Bruins defeated the San Diego State Aztecs 28-10 in their home opener at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, Calif. on Sept. 12.
The Bruins were held scoreless for the first half of the game, but took the lead in the third and blew up in the fourth to steamroll the Aztecs. UCLA head coach Bob Chesney was able to keep his team together yet again as he leaves his first home opener in the Rose Bowl triumphant. Here were five takeaways from the Week 2 performance.
The Bruins defense defended their den viciously for the season opener as they held the Aztecs scoreless for the first three quarters of play. San Diego State's lone touchdown came on the defense's worse drive of the game that was filled with penalties that led the Aztecs down the field and into the endzone.
Nonetheless, the defense was the strongest side of the ball for the majority of the game as they held the Aztecs to just 45-passing yards, had two sacks, six tackles-for-loss and an interception that was snagged by senior linebacker Jalen Woods.
FIRST CAREER INT FOR J-9! 💪
📺: BigTenNetwork
📲: https://t.co/rVIspx5dud pic.twitter.com/4ODHkrh5SV
#aztecs #opener #ucla #bowl
The Bruins were held scoreless for the first half of the game, but took the lead in the third and blew up in the fourth to steamroll the Aztecs. UCLA head coach Bob Chesney was able to keep his team together yet again as he leaves his first home opener in the Rose Bowl triumphant. Here were five takeaways from the Week 2 performance.
The Bruins defense defended their den viciously for the season opener as they held the Aztecs scoreless for the first three quarters of play. San Diego State's lone touchdown came on the defense's worse drive of the game that was filled with penalties that led the Aztecs down the field and into the endzone.
Nonetheless, the defense was the strongest side of the ball for the majority of the game as they held the Aztecs to just 45-passing yards, had two sacks, six tackles-for-loss and an interception that was snagged by senior linebacker Jalen Woods.
FIRST CAREER INT FOR J-9! 💪
📺: BigTenNetwork
📲: https://t.co/rVIspx5dud pic.twitter.com/4ODHkrh5SV
#aztecs #opener #ucla #bowl
2 months ago
UCLA football looks to build on a strong showing from their Week 1 rout of Cal in their home opener when they host San Diego State at the Rose Bowl on Saturday, Sept. 12.
The Bob Chesney era in Westwood couldn't have started on a better note as the Bruins rode dominant performances from their run game and defense -- their two biggest weaknesses last season -- to pull away late from what had been a shootout with the Golden Bears through the first three quarters.
Senior running back Anthony Woods led the way on the ground with 118 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while JMU transfer Wayne Knight added three more scores on 71 yards. That opened up some opportunities for Nico Iamaleava to take shots downfield, which the quarterback converted for some big plays late in the first half.
The Aztecs -- now a member of the new-look Pac-12 -- are coming off a strong season debut of their own, a 53-20 blowout over Portland State.
Follow along for live coverage from USA TODAY Sports on UCLA vs. San Diego State:
#state #diego
The Bob Chesney era in Westwood couldn't have started on a better note as the Bruins rode dominant performances from their run game and defense -- their two biggest weaknesses last season -- to pull away late from what had been a shootout with the Golden Bears through the first three quarters.
Senior running back Anthony Woods led the way on the ground with 118 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while JMU transfer Wayne Knight added three more scores on 71 yards. That opened up some opportunities for Nico Iamaleava to take shots downfield, which the quarterback converted for some big plays late in the first half.
The Aztecs -- now a member of the new-look Pac-12 -- are coming off a strong season debut of their own, a 53-20 blowout over Portland State.
Follow along for live coverage from USA TODAY Sports on UCLA vs. San Diego State:
#state #diego
2 months ago
It's not just game day, it's the first home game for Bob Chesney as head coach of the UCLA Bruins. UCLA will be taking on San Diego State at the Rose Bowl, with both teams eyeing a 2-0 start to the 2026 season.
We'll get our first look at how Chesney has his team looking in Pasadena, with the program looking to keep the ball rolling after an offseason filled with positive momentum. UCLA passed their first test, knocking off Cal on the road in Week 1.
Here are five questions for the Bruins entering Week 2 versus the Aztecs.
The UCLA offensive line dominated up front, allowing for major games from running backs Anthony Woods and Wayne Knight. While it'll be tough for UCLA to match their 277 yards they got in Week 1, a successful rushing offense will make everything else much easier for the Bruins.
There were many highlights from UCLA's Week 1 victory. One thing that wasn't great from the Bruins was their penalties. UCLA committed 12 penalties, giving away 110 yards. That isn't sustainable and will be something to improve upon in Week 2.
#first #penalties #diego
We'll get our first look at how Chesney has his team looking in Pasadena, with the program looking to keep the ball rolling after an offseason filled with positive momentum. UCLA passed their first test, knocking off Cal on the road in Week 1.
Here are five questions for the Bruins entering Week 2 versus the Aztecs.
The UCLA offensive line dominated up front, allowing for major games from running backs Anthony Woods and Wayne Knight. While it'll be tough for UCLA to match their 277 yards they got in Week 1, a successful rushing offense will make everything else much easier for the Bruins.
There were many highlights from UCLA's Week 1 victory. One thing that wasn't great from the Bruins was their penalties. UCLA committed 12 penalties, giving away 110 yards. That isn't sustainable and will be something to improve upon in Week 2.
#first #penalties #diego
2 months ago
It's already a tired storyline, but we'll get through it together until it becomes totally exhausted. San Diego State is the Pac-12 team here, UCLA is the Big Ten team, and even if it doesn't quite feel right, it's a big game for both.
The Aztecs want to be a player in the hunt for a College Football Playoff spot, but this is the one shot to take down a Power Four program. Coming off a good 53-20 warm-up win over Portland State, SDSU is as ready as it's going to be.
UCLA is the big story, though. Bob Chesney's first game as the new head coach was close to perfect, with the ground game pounding away through Cal in a 45-24 win.
It seems like these two should've played more than 17 times. UCLA won the last meeting in 2023 and is 16-1 all-time in the series.
San Diego State can lose this and still be alive for the CFP, but it would need to beat James Madison next week. The Pac-12 season starts against Texas State in early October.
UCLA starts the Big Ten season next week when Purdue comes to Los Angeles. It gets Maryland after that before going to Oregon.
#diego #next #week #starts
The Aztecs want to be a player in the hunt for a College Football Playoff spot, but this is the one shot to take down a Power Four program. Coming off a good 53-20 warm-up win over Portland State, SDSU is as ready as it's going to be.
UCLA is the big story, though. Bob Chesney's first game as the new head coach was close to perfect, with the ground game pounding away through Cal in a 45-24 win.
It seems like these two should've played more than 17 times. UCLA won the last meeting in 2023 and is 16-1 all-time in the series.
San Diego State can lose this and still be alive for the CFP, but it would need to beat James Madison next week. The Pac-12 season starts against Texas State in early October.
UCLA starts the Big Ten season next week when Purdue comes to Los Angeles. It gets Maryland after that before going to Oregon.
#diego #next #week #starts
2 months ago
BERKELEY, Calif. — Wayne Knight ran for two touchdowns in the fourth quarter following interceptions by Ta'Shawn James and UCLA opened the Bob Chesney era with a 45-24 victory over California on Saturday night.
Both teams entered the season with new coaches and high hopes but Chesney's team got the best against Tosh Lupoi's Golden Bears by capitalizing on the late miscues by quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele.
"It was a lot of fun," Chesney said. "That was a battle."
Knight, who came from James Madison along with Chesney, scored on a 31-yard run midway through the fourth one play after James' first interception on a pass that went off Ian Strong's hands. Knight then made it 38-24 when he scored on a 4-yard run with 2:58 to play following the second takeaway by James.
Anthony Woods sealed it with a 53-yard touchdown run as the Bruins used 37 new players in the win.
#knight #chesney #scored
Both teams entered the season with new coaches and high hopes but Chesney's team got the best against Tosh Lupoi's Golden Bears by capitalizing on the late miscues by quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele.
"It was a lot of fun," Chesney said. "That was a battle."
Knight, who came from James Madison along with Chesney, scored on a 31-yard run midway through the fourth one play after James' first interception on a pass that went off Ian Strong's hands. Knight then made it 38-24 when he scored on a 4-yard run with 2:58 to play following the second takeaway by James.
Anthony Woods sealed it with a 53-yard touchdown run as the Bruins used 37 new players in the win.
#knight #chesney #scored
2 months ago
James Madison made history in 2025, becoming the first-ever Sun Belt team to qualify for the College Football Playoff. But success came with a cost in the offseason. Head coach Bob Chesney left for UCLA, as did some of the Dukes' top players including running back Wayne Knight and defensive end Sahir West. Starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III wound up at UCF.
James Madison lost a bulk of the coaching staff and all but three primary starters from its CFP team. But the program is accustomed to handling adversity of this nature, not missing a beat when Curt Cignetti handed the reins to Bob Chesney two years ago.
Signs of a similar baton pass were evident Saturday when JMU defeated Liberty, 20-13, in head coach Billy Napier's debut.
James Madison fielded the nation's fifth-ranked total defense in 2025, and that was the team's calling card in the 2026 opener. Liberty was held completely out of the end zone until 10 minutes remained in the contest, thanks to the Dukes' ability to stonewall the run game.
Liberty's spread option attack ranked top-4 nationally in rushing in two of three seasons under head coach Jamey Chadwell. But through 38 attempts against JMU, the Dukes produced just 91 rushing yards, calculating to 2.4 per carry. They never broke off a big one, with the longest run of the day measuring to 10 yards.
#chesney
James Madison lost a bulk of the coaching staff and all but three primary starters from its CFP team. But the program is accustomed to handling adversity of this nature, not missing a beat when Curt Cignetti handed the reins to Bob Chesney two years ago.
Signs of a similar baton pass were evident Saturday when JMU defeated Liberty, 20-13, in head coach Billy Napier's debut.
James Madison fielded the nation's fifth-ranked total defense in 2025, and that was the team's calling card in the 2026 opener. Liberty was held completely out of the end zone until 10 minutes remained in the contest, thanks to the Dukes' ability to stonewall the run game.
Liberty's spread option attack ranked top-4 nationally in rushing in two of three seasons under head coach Jamey Chadwell. But through 38 attempts against JMU, the Dukes produced just 91 rushing yards, calculating to 2.4 per carry. They never broke off a big one, with the longest run of the day measuring to 10 yards.
#chesney
2 months ago
Social media shared their excitement for UCLA football's exhilarating 45-24 win over the California Golden Bears in their season debut at the California Memorial Stadium on Saturday.
The hiring of Bob Chesney to coach the Bruins brought a new level of energy into Westwood and as the game progressed that energy made it way over to social media. Here is some of what was said throughout the Bruins late blowout win to open their season.
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Social media excited for Bob Chesney's Bruins first win
#bruins #ucla #golden
The hiring of Bob Chesney to coach the Bruins brought a new level of energy into Westwood and as the game progressed that energy made it way over to social media. Here is some of what was said throughout the Bruins late blowout win to open their season.
This article originally appeared on UCLA Wire: Social media excited for Bob Chesney's Bruins first win
#bruins #ucla #golden
2 months ago
James Madison transfer running back Wayne Knight ran for three touchdowns and the UCLA defense found its footing in the fourth quarter, overpowering former conference rival California and kicking off the Bob Chesney era with a 45-24 win.
There was a brief injury scare to quarterback Nico Iamaleava, but by then, the Bruins had effectively won the game with two things they did poorly a season ago: rushing and defense.
UCLA outscored Cal 21-0 in the fourth quarter off two interceptions from transfer safety Ta'Shawn James, who picked off Cal's Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele on a deep third-down attempt. Knight ran for a 31-yard touchdown on the next play to help give UCLA a 31-24 lead with 8:46 left to go.
James' next interception with 7:31 left led to Knight's third touchdown on a four-yard run.
Anthony Woods broke free for a 53-yard touchdown run on the Bruins' final possession for his second touchdown of the game and UCLA's sixth — all on the ground. Last season, the Bruins ran for eight total.
#knight
There was a brief injury scare to quarterback Nico Iamaleava, but by then, the Bruins had effectively won the game with two things they did poorly a season ago: rushing and defense.
UCLA outscored Cal 21-0 in the fourth quarter off two interceptions from transfer safety Ta'Shawn James, who picked off Cal's Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele on a deep third-down attempt. Knight ran for a 31-yard touchdown on the next play to help give UCLA a 31-24 lead with 8:46 left to go.
James' next interception with 7:31 left led to Knight's third touchdown on a four-yard run.
Anthony Woods broke free for a 53-yard touchdown run on the Bruins' final possession for his second touchdown of the game and UCLA's sixth — all on the ground. Last season, the Bruins ran for eight total.
#knight
2 months ago
The Bob Chesney Era is off and running for the UCLA Bruins. The Bruins outlasted the Cal Bears Saturday night, picking up a 45-24 victory to move to 1-0 on the 2026 season.
It was a hard-fought win to begin Chesney's tenure, as Cal and quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele battled late into Saturday night but UCLA's defense got three turnovers and three sacks in the win.
The UCLA offense shined too. Aside from a red zone interception by Nico Iamaleava, Dean Kennedy's offense shined. UCLA rushed for 279 yards with James Madison transfer Wayne Knight looking like a star, and finding the end zone three times in his UCLA debut.
It was a balanced rushing attack, with the Bruins' offensive line winning up front, creating holes on the ground for Knight, Anthony Woods, Jaivian Thomas and Iamaleava on the ground. While Knight found the end zone three times, Woods scored twice and totaled 118 yards on only eight carries. As a team, UCLA averaged 9.0 yards per carry.
UCLA left meat on the bone late in the first half, as an Iamaleava interception led to a Cal touchdown but that didn't instill fear in the offense, as Iamaleava found Matthews for a deep pass to set up a last-second field goal to give the Bruins a 24-17 halftime lead.
#ucla #three #zone #woods
It was a hard-fought win to begin Chesney's tenure, as Cal and quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele battled late into Saturday night but UCLA's defense got three turnovers and three sacks in the win.
The UCLA offense shined too. Aside from a red zone interception by Nico Iamaleava, Dean Kennedy's offense shined. UCLA rushed for 279 yards with James Madison transfer Wayne Knight looking like a star, and finding the end zone three times in his UCLA debut.
It was a balanced rushing attack, with the Bruins' offensive line winning up front, creating holes on the ground for Knight, Anthony Woods, Jaivian Thomas and Iamaleava on the ground. While Knight found the end zone three times, Woods scored twice and totaled 118 yards on only eight carries. As a team, UCLA averaged 9.0 yards per carry.
UCLA left meat on the bone late in the first half, as an Iamaleava interception led to a Cal touchdown but that didn't instill fear in the offense, as Iamaleava found Matthews for a deep pass to set up a last-second field goal to give the Bruins a 24-17 halftime lead.
#ucla #three #zone #woods
2 months ago
The UCLA Bruins first football game of the 2026 season comes against the California Golden Bears at the California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, Calif. on Sept. 4.
Head coach Bob Chesney will reveal the new-look Bruins to the world as they battle against head coach Tosh Lupoi's Golden Bears. The Bruins still have some core pieces from last season like star quarterback Nico Iamalaeava, but Chesney brought plenty of star power with him from James Madison, which should be on full display.
UCLA vs California
TV Channel: ESPN
Livestream: Fubo (free trial)
#head
Head coach Bob Chesney will reveal the new-look Bruins to the world as they battle against head coach Tosh Lupoi's Golden Bears. The Bruins still have some core pieces from last season like star quarterback Nico Iamalaeava, but Chesney brought plenty of star power with him from James Madison, which should be on full display.
UCLA vs California
TV Channel: ESPN
Livestream: Fubo (free trial)
#head
2 months ago
Can first-year head coach Bob Chesney really replicate the magic that he created at James Madison University with the UCLA Bruins? That's become the expectation as Chesney has yet to scuffle so far in his NCAA coaching career.
To accomplish the feat, Chesney brought over many of his James Madison players through the transfer portal to UCLA. One of those players is tight end Josh Phifer, who spoke to California Post writer Ben Bolch about the similarities between JMU and UCLA.
"I was getting goosebumps," Phifer said to Bolch. "Because I was like, holy s–t, it's happening, I can feel it. … This almost feels like JMUCLA – it feels like the same thing except it's beautiful every day, it's 75 degrees and all that."
Bruin fans would love for their football program to turn into JMUCLA, with Chesney leading the Dukes to a conference championship and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2025. Chesney has been laying the groundwork for a smooth transition, bringing over much of the roster, coaching staff and values to the Bruins' program.
Kicker Mateen Bhaghani spoke on the difference between last year's UCLA program and what he has experienced so far this season, which has been a much more lively experience.
#james #madison #bruins #bolch
To accomplish the feat, Chesney brought over many of his James Madison players through the transfer portal to UCLA. One of those players is tight end Josh Phifer, who spoke to California Post writer Ben Bolch about the similarities between JMU and UCLA.
"I was getting goosebumps," Phifer said to Bolch. "Because I was like, holy s–t, it's happening, I can feel it. … This almost feels like JMUCLA – it feels like the same thing except it's beautiful every day, it's 75 degrees and all that."
Bruin fans would love for their football program to turn into JMUCLA, with Chesney leading the Dukes to a conference championship and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2025. Chesney has been laying the groundwork for a smooth transition, bringing over much of the roster, coaching staff and values to the Bruins' program.
Kicker Mateen Bhaghani spoke on the difference between last year's UCLA program and what he has experienced so far this season, which has been a much more lively experience.
#james #madison #bruins #bolch
3 months ago
The UCLA Bruins and the USC Trojans play in the same city, they play in the same conference but the comparisons just about end there for the two Big Ten schools as they enter the 2026 season.
The pressure is on for USC, landing several terrific recruiting classes, but those recruiting classes have yet to lead to too much success under head coach Lincoln Riley. The time is now for the Trojans but they're tasked with a challenging Big Ten schedule, making their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance far from a sure thing.
Things are quite the opposite in Westwood. The Bruins are fresh off of being a national laughingstock for their 3-9 season which featured losses to UNLV and New Mexico. Enter in new head coach Bob Chesney and suddenly spirits are quite high for UCLA.
Yahoo Sports writer Dan Wolken covered the juxtaposition between the two programs entering the 2026 season.
"Against significant odds given what's happened the last two seasons, UCLA has managed to blow it out of Westwood. It's largely thanks to new coach Bob Chesney, the relentlessly positive and perfectly coiffed 49-year-old who won at a bunch of small schools in the Northeast you've never heard of before taking James Madison to the College Football Playoff last season. Before even coaching a game, he has managed to convince UCLA's administration, its boosters and most importantly its players that he can do the exact same thing on the West Coast," Wolken wrote. "It's not quite the same vibe across town, where the patina of endless possibility has eroded over the past 4 1/2 years into a new and urgent reality for Lincoln Riley."
#coach #riley #college
The pressure is on for USC, landing several terrific recruiting classes, but those recruiting classes have yet to lead to too much success under head coach Lincoln Riley. The time is now for the Trojans but they're tasked with a challenging Big Ten schedule, making their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance far from a sure thing.
Things are quite the opposite in Westwood. The Bruins are fresh off of being a national laughingstock for their 3-9 season which featured losses to UNLV and New Mexico. Enter in new head coach Bob Chesney and suddenly spirits are quite high for UCLA.
Yahoo Sports writer Dan Wolken covered the juxtaposition between the two programs entering the 2026 season.
"Against significant odds given what's happened the last two seasons, UCLA has managed to blow it out of Westwood. It's largely thanks to new coach Bob Chesney, the relentlessly positive and perfectly coiffed 49-year-old who won at a bunch of small schools in the Northeast you've never heard of before taking James Madison to the College Football Playoff last season. Before even coaching a game, he has managed to convince UCLA's administration, its boosters and most importantly its players that he can do the exact same thing on the West Coast," Wolken wrote. "It's not quite the same vibe across town, where the patina of endless possibility has eroded over the past 4 1/2 years into a new and urgent reality for Lincoln Riley."
#coach #riley #college
3 months ago
LOS ANGELES — The sun shines almost every day in America's largest college football city, but there never seems to be enough for both of its power conference programs at the same time. In the recent history of the USC-UCLA rivalry, there is almost always a gray cloud hovering somewhere.
Against significant odds given what's happened the last two seasons, UCLA has managed to blow it out of Westwood. It's largely thanks to new coach Bob Chesney, the relentlessly positive and perfectly coiffed 49-year-old who won at a bunch of small schools in the Northeast you've never heard of before taking James Madison to the College Football Playoff last season. Before even coaching a game, he has managed to convince UCLA's administration, its boosters and most importantly its players that he can do the exact same thing on the West Coast.
"When you do your research on him, you see that he's a winner," said senior linebacker Jalen Woods, who has played for the same number of head coaches (three) as UCLA won games last season. "It's not his first rodeo."
It's not quite the same vibe across town, where the patina of endless possibility has eroded over the last 4 1/2 years into a new and urgent reality for Lincoln Riley.
When Southern Cal pulled off a middle-of-the-night shocker to lure him out of Oklahoma at the end of the 2021 season, administrators believed — and with good reason — that they had imported a national championship-level coach who would quickly usher in a long era of dominance on the West Coast.
#ucla #season #never
Against significant odds given what's happened the last two seasons, UCLA has managed to blow it out of Westwood. It's largely thanks to new coach Bob Chesney, the relentlessly positive and perfectly coiffed 49-year-old who won at a bunch of small schools in the Northeast you've never heard of before taking James Madison to the College Football Playoff last season. Before even coaching a game, he has managed to convince UCLA's administration, its boosters and most importantly its players that he can do the exact same thing on the West Coast.
"When you do your research on him, you see that he's a winner," said senior linebacker Jalen Woods, who has played for the same number of head coaches (three) as UCLA won games last season. "It's not his first rodeo."
It's not quite the same vibe across town, where the patina of endless possibility has eroded over the last 4 1/2 years into a new and urgent reality for Lincoln Riley.
When Southern Cal pulled off a middle-of-the-night shocker to lure him out of Oklahoma at the end of the 2021 season, administrators believed — and with good reason — that they had imported a national championship-level coach who would quickly usher in a long era of dominance on the West Coast.
#ucla #season #never
3 months ago
Aug 27, 2026, 10:57 am EDT
Federal Reserve legend William McChesney Martin Jr., who served as chairman for nearly two decades starting in the 1950s, pithily described the central banking ethos early in his tenure.
Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8
#william #mcchesney #legend
Federal Reserve legend William McChesney Martin Jr., who served as chairman for nearly two decades starting in the 1950s, pithily described the central banking ethos early in his tenure.
Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8
#william #mcchesney #legend
3 months ago
It's a new year for Bob Chesney and Colin Hitschler but the two coaches remain together, with Hitschler following Chesney from James Madison to California to join the UCLA Bruins. While it's a new roster, conference and program, there's a few things that remain the same.
One of those things being Trent Hendrick, who joined UCLA over the weekend. Hendrick won the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year award under Hitschler last year and more success could be headed their way in 2026.
Hitschler spoke to the media on Tuesday after practice and talked about the new addition at linebacker.
"We had a lot of fun together last year and I think he did a great job where he was. I'm glad he got the opportunity for himself to hopefully continue to play college football here," Hitschler said. "What a special opportunity for him. Let's make the most of it."
One of the main things to watch for UCLA football this season is how Hitschler's defense will fare in the Big Ten. UCLA allowed the fourth-most yards per game last season in the Big Ten and had the worst scoring defense in the conference, allowing 33.4 points per game.
#hitschler #year #last #together
One of those things being Trent Hendrick, who joined UCLA over the weekend. Hendrick won the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year award under Hitschler last year and more success could be headed their way in 2026.
Hitschler spoke to the media on Tuesday after practice and talked about the new addition at linebacker.
"We had a lot of fun together last year and I think he did a great job where he was. I'm glad he got the opportunity for himself to hopefully continue to play college football here," Hitschler said. "What a special opportunity for him. Let's make the most of it."
One of the main things to watch for UCLA football this season is how Hitschler's defense will fare in the Big Ten. UCLA allowed the fourth-most yards per game last season in the Big Ten and had the worst scoring defense in the conference, allowing 33.4 points per game.
#hitschler #year #last #together
3 months ago
UCLA Bruins' quarterback Nico Iamaleava possesses an elite combination of size and speed. Even if Iamaleava isn't the most built-out 6'5", his height allows him to see over defenders and his own offensive line.
That skillset is valuable in the college game but becomes even more important at the next level. The 2026 season will determine what the future holds for Iamaleava. With a strong season under Bob Chesney, Iamaleava could wind up hearing his name early in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Rookie Watch reported earlier this week that Iamaleava has the chance to "soar up NFL Draft boards", adding that NFL scouts have "extremely impressed" with what Iamaleava has shown thus far in training camp.
In Iamaleava's first season with UCLA, the Tennessee transfer impressed with his legs, leading the Bruins in rushing yards but Rookie Watch reported that one NFL scout stated that Iamaleava has "one of the biggest arms" in next year's class of quarterbacks.
That arm wasn't displayed enough in UCLA's offense last year. Between a dysfunctional offensive line and an overall lack of offensive cohesion, Iamaleava didn't have too many chances to show off his right arm.
#bruins #watch
That skillset is valuable in the college game but becomes even more important at the next level. The 2026 season will determine what the future holds for Iamaleava. With a strong season under Bob Chesney, Iamaleava could wind up hearing his name early in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Rookie Watch reported earlier this week that Iamaleava has the chance to "soar up NFL Draft boards", adding that NFL scouts have "extremely impressed" with what Iamaleava has shown thus far in training camp.
In Iamaleava's first season with UCLA, the Tennessee transfer impressed with his legs, leading the Bruins in rushing yards but Rookie Watch reported that one NFL scout stated that Iamaleava has "one of the biggest arms" in next year's class of quarterbacks.
That arm wasn't displayed enough in UCLA's offense last year. Between a dysfunctional offensive line and an overall lack of offensive cohesion, Iamaleava didn't have too many chances to show off his right arm.
#bruins #watch
3 months ago
On Monday morning, USA TODAY college sports trending writer Austin Curtright published an article **** led "Big Ten football's 10 most impactful transfers for 2026: From Josh Hoover to Terry Moore," which featured two new UCLA Bruin players.
Senior running back Wayne Knight was the first Bruin featured on the list.
"An All-American last season by multiple outlets, Wayne Knight also followed his former head coach, joining up with Bob Chesney from James Madison at UCLA.
"Knight was a difference-maker last season for the Dukes, rushing for 1,373 yards with nine touchdowns, also catching 40 passes for 397 yards and another score. He has a small frame at 5-7, 193 pounds, but showed he can hold his own against tougher opponents. Against Oregon in the College Football Playoff, he rushed for 110 yards on 6.5 yards per carry.
"Knight is on multiple preseason All-American teams ahead of the 2026 season, and has huge expectations in his final season of eligibility."
#bruin #featured
Senior running back Wayne Knight was the first Bruin featured on the list.
"An All-American last season by multiple outlets, Wayne Knight also followed his former head coach, joining up with Bob Chesney from James Madison at UCLA.
"Knight was a difference-maker last season for the Dukes, rushing for 1,373 yards with nine touchdowns, also catching 40 passes for 397 yards and another score. He has a small frame at 5-7, 193 pounds, but showed he can hold his own against tougher opponents. Against Oregon in the College Football Playoff, he rushed for 110 yards on 6.5 yards per carry.
"Knight is on multiple preseason All-American teams ahead of the 2026 season, and has huge expectations in his final season of eligibility."
#bruin #featured
3 months ago
Bob Chesney arrives in Los Angeles looking to make the big time. After more than a decade in the lower levels of the sport and two seasons at James Madison, one thing is abundantly clear: this guy is a winner. He has a career .717 winning percentage and will look to continue that trend at one of the most difficult places to win in the Power 4.
UCLA only has three 10-win seasons this century, with the most recent one dating back to the Obama administration. Inspired by Indiana, the Bruins have invested heavily in personnel and a hot-shot coaching prospect to accelerate a return to the top of the conference.
Let's take a closer look at Chesney's rebuilding strategy.
Head Coach: Bob Chesney (First season)
Offensive Coordinator: Dean Kennedy (First season)
#season
UCLA only has three 10-win seasons this century, with the most recent one dating back to the Obama administration. Inspired by Indiana, the Bruins have invested heavily in personnel and a hot-shot coaching prospect to accelerate a return to the top of the conference.
Let's take a closer look at Chesney's rebuilding strategy.
Head Coach: Bob Chesney (First season)
Offensive Coordinator: Dean Kennedy (First season)
#season
3 months ago
A little over a month ago, Georgia Tech defensive lineman Tawfiq Thomas' made a viral social media post about his former team.
On Monday, the former Colorado Buffaloes transfer justified his remarks. Thomas is dressed in Georgia Tech game day gear from head to toe. Hat, jersey, uniform pants and cleats. However, there were additional elements that take this from a reasonable post to regrettable trolling.
The most noticeable is that Thomas is standing in front of a framed poster that shows the final score and stats from Georgia Tech's 27-20 victory over Colorado last season. This included is a countdown clock to the Week 1 match-up between the Buffs and Yellow Jackets. He tagged CU Football's official account and even made it Shedeur Sanders specific by including audio of Sanders' "Perfect Timing" song as well as corresponding lyrics.
The ploy by Thomas likely did not have the result he was hoping for. It might have been a friendly jab, but it was anything but effective. Perhaps during his time in Boulder, Thomas failed to grasp the built-in Sanders fanbase. Established Buffaloes fans might be less likely to engage a player who is no longer with the program. Sanders fans, on the other hand, are all too happy to check receipts and push back.
Following Thomas' original tweet from July 20, the critics showed up in droves. Some of the comments were of the 'act like a professional' variety, while others were much more direct and insulting. Many of the keyboard warriors that patrol social media in an effort to protect Deion Sanders and the Buffs wasted no time responding. Colorado alum Matt McChesney also addressed the post on his Zero2Sixty podcast.
#thomas #post
On Monday, the former Colorado Buffaloes transfer justified his remarks. Thomas is dressed in Georgia Tech game day gear from head to toe. Hat, jersey, uniform pants and cleats. However, there were additional elements that take this from a reasonable post to regrettable trolling.
The most noticeable is that Thomas is standing in front of a framed poster that shows the final score and stats from Georgia Tech's 27-20 victory over Colorado last season. This included is a countdown clock to the Week 1 match-up between the Buffs and Yellow Jackets. He tagged CU Football's official account and even made it Shedeur Sanders specific by including audio of Sanders' "Perfect Timing" song as well as corresponding lyrics.
The ploy by Thomas likely did not have the result he was hoping for. It might have been a friendly jab, but it was anything but effective. Perhaps during his time in Boulder, Thomas failed to grasp the built-in Sanders fanbase. Established Buffaloes fans might be less likely to engage a player who is no longer with the program. Sanders fans, on the other hand, are all too happy to check receipts and push back.
Following Thomas' original tweet from July 20, the critics showed up in droves. Some of the comments were of the 'act like a professional' variety, while others were much more direct and insulting. Many of the keyboard warriors that patrol social media in an effort to protect Deion Sanders and the Buffs wasted no time responding. Colorado alum Matt McChesney also addressed the post on his Zero2Sixty podcast.
#thomas #post
3 months ago
LOS ANGELES — After a week of practices in Irvine, the UCLA football team has returned to campus to resume their regular operations. Today's practice is also their final one available to the media before Wednesday's Media Day.
One of the biggest questions to begin the Bob Chesney era is how the first-year head coach is managing an influx of talent in Westwood.
The Bruins roster 63 new players this season, 45 of whom are transfers, and added elite pieces to an offense that showed flashes but struggled to find a consistent footing last year. As fall camp continues, we're getting more clarity on who's solidifying a spot in the starting offensive group.
Here's a look at who has been standing out in the first unit:
QB: Nico Iamaleava
#angeles #bruins
One of the biggest questions to begin the Bob Chesney era is how the first-year head coach is managing an influx of talent in Westwood.
The Bruins roster 63 new players this season, 45 of whom are transfers, and added elite pieces to an offense that showed flashes but struggled to find a consistent footing last year. As fall camp continues, we're getting more clarity on who's solidifying a spot in the starting offensive group.
Here's a look at who has been standing out in the first unit:
QB: Nico Iamaleava
#angeles #bruins
3 months ago
USA Today's Austin Curtright named the top 10 most impactful transfers in the Big Ten for the 2026 college football season. There are a lot of impact positions in this group of course.
Now, will all these transfers pan out? Not necessarily. But, these teams took some big swings in some cases to fill roster holes and it could be boom or bust. Not to mention, there are a few quarterbacks on this list.
$19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage
So without further ado, let's take a look at the 10 most impactful transfers in the Big Ten for 2026. We'll start out west with two guys who followed their coach for a new, sunny location!
Knight followed his head coach Bob Chesney to the Big Ten after playing for James Madison. It took him until 2024 to get solid reps and get moving, but he broke out in 2025.
#impactful #austin
Now, will all these transfers pan out? Not necessarily. But, these teams took some big swings in some cases to fill roster holes and it could be boom or bust. Not to mention, there are a few quarterbacks on this list.
$19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage
So without further ado, let's take a look at the 10 most impactful transfers in the Big Ten for 2026. We'll start out west with two guys who followed their coach for a new, sunny location!
Knight followed his head coach Bob Chesney to the Big Ten after playing for James Madison. It took him until 2024 to get solid reps and get moving, but he broke out in 2025.
#impactful #austin
3 months ago
Indiana football shocked the world and went undefeated with its first national championship in program history last season. Coach Curt Cignetti lost a long list of players to the NFL Draft, but has since reloaded the roster with impact transfer portal additions.
Across the Big Ten, Oregon and Ohio State are considered top national ***** le contenders in 2026, along with Indiana. All three schools have made impact additions via the portal.
UCLA also added an impressive portal class after hiring Bob Chesney from James Madison, which made the College Football Playoff in 2025. Michigan also added some pieces after hiring Kyle Whittingham from Utah.
From 1-11 to Playoff? 5 unranked teams who could surprise their way into 2026 CFP
Can't-miss games: Top 10 games this season include big dose of Arch Manning
#portal #Football #national #additions
Across the Big Ten, Oregon and Ohio State are considered top national ***** le contenders in 2026, along with Indiana. All three schools have made impact additions via the portal.
UCLA also added an impressive portal class after hiring Bob Chesney from James Madison, which made the College Football Playoff in 2025. Michigan also added some pieces after hiring Kyle Whittingham from Utah.
From 1-11 to Playoff? 5 unranked teams who could surprise their way into 2026 CFP
Can't-miss games: Top 10 games this season include big dose of Arch Manning
#portal #Football #national #additions
3 months ago
We continue our USC Behind Enemy Lines series with UCLA Wire and its editor, Dylan McNeill. In this article, we ask about UCLA football ticket sales and UCLA athletic department revenue. These are two huge concerns - and shortfalls - for the Bruins after their move to the Big Ten.
"The profitability of UCLA athletics in the Big Ten Conference will always be in question due to the amount of travel they have to do," McNeill told us. "The Big Ten cuts UCLA a jumbo check every year but the best way for the Bruins to combat any financial concerns is with a strong football program. UCLA has invested heavily into that football program, hiring Bob Chesney to turn around the fortunes of the program. The school has followed Indiana's blueprint to building a college football program and if the results follow, or even come close, then a profitable football program will ease any and all financial concerns."
The Indiana comparison is obvious and undeniable. Indiana now prints money on football after being a total ***** ody and an absolute nothingburger in the sport for decades. If Bob Chesney even comes remotely close to the Curt Cignetti standard, UCLA will be in great shape. The real question, though, is if Chesney makes UCLA a solid and respectable program - 8-4 or 9-3 - but never makes big bowl or playoff games. Would that be enough to truly turn around the financials in Westwood? We will have to wait and see.
Contact/Follow TrojansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of USC Trojans news, notes and opinion.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Behind Enemy Lines: Inside UCLA's financial woes and what's next
#ucla #enemy
"The profitability of UCLA athletics in the Big Ten Conference will always be in question due to the amount of travel they have to do," McNeill told us. "The Big Ten cuts UCLA a jumbo check every year but the best way for the Bruins to combat any financial concerns is with a strong football program. UCLA has invested heavily into that football program, hiring Bob Chesney to turn around the fortunes of the program. The school has followed Indiana's blueprint to building a college football program and if the results follow, or even come close, then a profitable football program will ease any and all financial concerns."
The Indiana comparison is obvious and undeniable. Indiana now prints money on football after being a total ***** ody and an absolute nothingburger in the sport for decades. If Bob Chesney even comes remotely close to the Curt Cignetti standard, UCLA will be in great shape. The real question, though, is if Chesney makes UCLA a solid and respectable program - 8-4 or 9-3 - but never makes big bowl or playoff games. Would that be enough to truly turn around the financials in Westwood? We will have to wait and see.
Contact/Follow TrojansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of USC Trojans news, notes and opinion.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Behind Enemy Lines: Inside UCLA's financial woes and what's next
#ucla #enemy
3 months ago
Last year, no one knew how much of a disaster year two of the DeShaun Foster era was going to be. Expectations were too high for the UCLA Bruins in 2025 and could the same mistake be being made in 2026 with a new head coach in place?Bob Chesney has earned his sterling reputation but it's fair to question if the Big Ten Conference will come with a learning curve. While many projections have UCLA returning to above .500 for the first time in the Big Ten, one model projects a third-straight losing season for the Bruins.
College Football Zone has UCLA going just 4-8 in Chesney's first season, improving just one game from last year's shameful season. College Football Zone has UCLA defeating San Diego State, Purdue, Michigan State and Nevada.
Winning fewer Big Ten games in 2026 than the team did in 2025 would be quite the surprise. Interim head coach Tim Skipper rattled off three wins in a row against Penn State, Michigan State and Maryland before losing five-straight to end the season.
College Football Zone has UCLA losing to Cal, Maryland, Oregon, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan and USC. Even with an easier schedule in 2026, the projection has the Bruins enduring another losing season.
UCLA's 2027 recruiting class will help build depth within the program but the Bruins brought in over 40 new transfers this offseason to begin to turn things around in 2026, meaning a 4-8 season would be a bitter pill to swallow for the program.
#season #state #college #zone
College Football Zone has UCLA going just 4-8 in Chesney's first season, improving just one game from last year's shameful season. College Football Zone has UCLA defeating San Diego State, Purdue, Michigan State and Nevada.
Winning fewer Big Ten games in 2026 than the team did in 2025 would be quite the surprise. Interim head coach Tim Skipper rattled off three wins in a row against Penn State, Michigan State and Maryland before losing five-straight to end the season.
College Football Zone has UCLA losing to Cal, Maryland, Oregon, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan and USC. Even with an easier schedule in 2026, the projection has the Bruins enduring another losing season.
UCLA's 2027 recruiting class will help build depth within the program but the Bruins brought in over 40 new transfers this offseason to begin to turn things around in 2026, meaning a 4-8 season would be a bitter pill to swallow for the program.
#season #state #college #zone
3 months ago
The UCLA Bruins brought in Bob Chesney to elevate the football program to a point where the team is competing at the highest level. A great way to move towards that is to become the best team in the city that you're in.
UCLA football certainly hasn't been better than USC since the turn of the century, and it's been even worse for the Bruins since the turn of the century. USC will be good again this year but Lincoln Riley has been even better off of the field, landing several top-of-the-line recruiting classes.
So when might Chesney and the Bruins be able to compete consistently against USC? Maybe pretty soon. Trojans Wire writer Matt Zemek voiced his belief that things can change quickly in the world of college football.
"When UCLA kicked USC up and down the field in 2023, we all saw why that happened. D'Anton Lynn's UCLA defense swarmed USC's tissue-soft offensive line and blew up the Trojans' backfield again and again. UCLA was the far more physical team that day. The Bruins were physical with USC last season and were therefore able to push the Trojans even though they had far less talent," Zemek said. "UCLA under Bob Chesney should be able to play with the physicality needed to beat USC. Given that Chesney has recruited well and shows promise as someone who can develop his players, that's all UCLA really needs to match and then exceed USC. It all goes back to Chesney being half as good for UCLA as Curt Cignetti has been for Indiana. If Chesney is even remotely close to the Cignetti standard, UCLA will run LA barring a Lincoln Riley renaissance in which his offenses start putting up 55 points a game the way he did at Oklahoma."
Cignetti may be the best coach in the sport but Chesney even earning comparisons to the reigning national champion head coach is a good sign in Westwood.
#Trojans
UCLA football certainly hasn't been better than USC since the turn of the century, and it's been even worse for the Bruins since the turn of the century. USC will be good again this year but Lincoln Riley has been even better off of the field, landing several top-of-the-line recruiting classes.
So when might Chesney and the Bruins be able to compete consistently against USC? Maybe pretty soon. Trojans Wire writer Matt Zemek voiced his belief that things can change quickly in the world of college football.
"When UCLA kicked USC up and down the field in 2023, we all saw why that happened. D'Anton Lynn's UCLA defense swarmed USC's tissue-soft offensive line and blew up the Trojans' backfield again and again. UCLA was the far more physical team that day. The Bruins were physical with USC last season and were therefore able to push the Trojans even though they had far less talent," Zemek said. "UCLA under Bob Chesney should be able to play with the physicality needed to beat USC. Given that Chesney has recruited well and shows promise as someone who can develop his players, that's all UCLA really needs to match and then exceed USC. It all goes back to Chesney being half as good for UCLA as Curt Cignetti has been for Indiana. If Chesney is even remotely close to the Cignetti standard, UCLA will run LA barring a Lincoln Riley renaissance in which his offenses start putting up 55 points a game the way he did at Oklahoma."
Cignetti may be the best coach in the sport but Chesney even earning comparisons to the reigning national champion head coach is a good sign in Westwood.
#Trojans
3 months ago
Each fall, Kirk Herbstreit is one of the busiest men in America. Herbstreit traverses the United States weekly, balancing out his broadcasting duties for ESPN and Amazon Prime Video.
In order to keep up the pace, Herbstreit has to be healthy. On Friday, the longtime College GameDay ******* yst revealed during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" that he spent six weeks in bed this offseason due to a serious back issue.
After McAfee complimented Herbstreit on his tan and fresh appearance, the 56-year-old broadcaster shared his health plight publicly for the first time.
"I couldn't walk. I couldn't leave my house for six weeks," Herbstreit said.
Herbstreit continued, recalling how he and his wife were in Las Vegas in June for Kenny Chesney's opening night at The Sphere. The next day, they went to breakfast, and when the former Ohio State quarterback stood up to leave, he was unable to move.
#kirk
In order to keep up the pace, Herbstreit has to be healthy. On Friday, the longtime College GameDay ******* yst revealed during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" that he spent six weeks in bed this offseason due to a serious back issue.
After McAfee complimented Herbstreit on his tan and fresh appearance, the 56-year-old broadcaster shared his health plight publicly for the first time.
"I couldn't walk. I couldn't leave my house for six weeks," Herbstreit said.
Herbstreit continued, recalling how he and his wife were in Las Vegas in June for Kenny Chesney's opening night at The Sphere. The next day, they went to breakfast, and when the former Ohio State quarterback stood up to leave, he was unable to move.
#kirk
3 months ago
We continue our USC Behind Enemy Lines series with UCLA Wire editor Dylan McNeill. Next question: Who is Bob Chesney's most important staff hire going into the coach's first season with the Bruins?
"The quickest way to start playing competitive football is having a strong defense, which makes new UCLA defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler the most important hire for Bob Chesney's staff," McNeill told us. "Hitschler has had co-defensive coordinator experience at Alabama, Wisconsin, Cincinnati and with Chesney at James Madison. Hitschler has coached some strong defenses over the past few years and if that can continue in 2026, UCLA has a shot at playing winning football in the Big Ten this season."
It's hard to argue with McNeill's answer. When UCLA was able to stand up to USC, it was because the Bruins had a physical, hard-nosed defense under then-coordinator D'Anton Lynn. When UCLA's defense was soft under other coordinators, the Bruins really didn't have a chance against the Trojans. Whether Colin Hitschler hits the mark as defensive coordinator is certainly a core variable for UCLA football this season. The Trojans hope he does as well as Alex Grinch did at USC. That would put the Men of Troy in position to run Los Angeles for many more years.
Contact/Follow TrojansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of USC Trojans news, notes and opinion.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Behind Enemy Lines: Bob Chesney's most important UCLA staff hire
#Trojans #hire #Football
"The quickest way to start playing competitive football is having a strong defense, which makes new UCLA defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler the most important hire for Bob Chesney's staff," McNeill told us. "Hitschler has had co-defensive coordinator experience at Alabama, Wisconsin, Cincinnati and with Chesney at James Madison. Hitschler has coached some strong defenses over the past few years and if that can continue in 2026, UCLA has a shot at playing winning football in the Big Ten this season."
It's hard to argue with McNeill's answer. When UCLA was able to stand up to USC, it was because the Bruins had a physical, hard-nosed defense under then-coordinator D'Anton Lynn. When UCLA's defense was soft under other coordinators, the Bruins really didn't have a chance against the Trojans. Whether Colin Hitschler hits the mark as defensive coordinator is certainly a core variable for UCLA football this season. The Trojans hope he does as well as Alex Grinch did at USC. That would put the Men of Troy in position to run Los Angeles for many more years.
Contact/Follow TrojansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of USC Trojans news, notes and opinion.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Behind Enemy Lines: Bob Chesney's most important UCLA staff hire
#Trojans #hire #Football
3 months ago
Former Bulldog and NFL quarterback Derek Carr arrived at UCLA's Fall Camp just one day after being hired by the Bruins.
The Bruin Report shared the video below of Carr's arrival along with general manager Darrick Yray. Yray began his coaching career at Fresno State, working with Carr while he was a Bulldog.
New UCLA special advisor to the head coach has arrived.
Derek Carr walking in with general manager Darrick Yray ahead of Tuesday morning’s practice in Irvine. pic.twitter.com/r4tV8do54Y
Carr was hired to be a special adviser for Bruins head coach Bob Chesney, ***** isting the offensive staff with game-planning strategy and also working with the quarterbacks.
RELATED: Ex-Raiders QB Derek Carr joins UCLA's coaching staff as special adviser to Bob Chesney
#yray #special #chesney #hired
The Bruin Report shared the video below of Carr's arrival along with general manager Darrick Yray. Yray began his coaching career at Fresno State, working with Carr while he was a Bulldog.
New UCLA special advisor to the head coach has arrived.
Derek Carr walking in with general manager Darrick Yray ahead of Tuesday morning’s practice in Irvine. pic.twitter.com/r4tV8do54Y
Carr was hired to be a special adviser for Bruins head coach Bob Chesney, ***** isting the offensive staff with game-planning strategy and also working with the quarterbacks.
RELATED: Ex-Raiders QB Derek Carr joins UCLA's coaching staff as special adviser to Bob Chesney
#yray #special #chesney #hired
3 months ago
UCLA will be bringing a veteran NFL signal-caller into the building for the 2026 season.
ESPN reported Monday night that former Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr will be joining the staff as a special advisor to new head coach Bob Chesney. Carr, a native of Bakersfield, California, who played at Fresno State, retired from the NFL in May 2025 after 11 seasons.
Now, the four-time Pro Bowler joins a staff that has brought a lot of excitement to Los Angeles after it led James Madison to a College Football Playoff appearance last season.
"We are excited to welcome Derek to our program," Chesney said in a release. "He has played the quarterback position at a high level for more than a decade, and his experience, leadership and football knowledge will be an incredible resource for our coaching staff and student-athletes. What stands out most is his passion for the game and his commitment to developing young people. Derek will have a tremendous impact on our players and is a great addition to our program."
Carr also has a prior relationship with UCLA general manager Darrick Yray, who comes in from Florida State. Yray was an ***** istant at Fresno State during Carr's college playing career.
#state #ucla
ESPN reported Monday night that former Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr will be joining the staff as a special advisor to new head coach Bob Chesney. Carr, a native of Bakersfield, California, who played at Fresno State, retired from the NFL in May 2025 after 11 seasons.
Now, the four-time Pro Bowler joins a staff that has brought a lot of excitement to Los Angeles after it led James Madison to a College Football Playoff appearance last season.
"We are excited to welcome Derek to our program," Chesney said in a release. "He has played the quarterback position at a high level for more than a decade, and his experience, leadership and football knowledge will be an incredible resource for our coaching staff and student-athletes. What stands out most is his passion for the game and his commitment to developing young people. Derek will have a tremendous impact on our players and is a great addition to our program."
Carr also has a prior relationship with UCLA general manager Darrick Yray, who comes in from Florida State. Yray was an ***** istant at Fresno State during Carr's college playing career.
#state #ucla
