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20h ago

Chesney’s Debut Sends UCLA Past Cal, 45-24

The season-opening win displayed a new run-first identity, clutch fourth-quarter turnovers, and heavy contributions from transfers that give the program early momentum.

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows UCLA Football Head Coach Chip Kelly yelling on the sidelines, Image 2 shows UCLA football player interacting with fans at a game, Image 3 shows Two football players, one in a white and gold uniform and another in a blue and yellow uniform, run across a green field

Overview

  • UCLA beat California 45-24 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, rallying from a 24-24 tie to score 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter.
  • The Bruins established a physical ground game with 277 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, led by Wayne Knight’s three TDs and Anthony Woods’ 118 yards and a 53-yard score.
  • Senior defensive back Ta’Shawn James recorded two interceptions in the fourth quarter that turned momentum and set up the decisive scoring drives.
  • Quarterback Nico Iamaleava completed 14 of 22 passes for 184 yards, left briefly with a right-leg cramp after a scramble, returned to finish the game, and later awarded Coach Chesney the game ball in the locker room.
  • Chesney’s offseason roster overhaul—including many transfers from his James Madison staff—played a central role, but the team still showed issues such as penalties and second-half lapses to monitor as it enters Big Ten play.