News Summary
The UCLA Bruins have dropped 29 spots to No. 81 in ESPN’s Football Power Index following a significant loss to the Utah Utes. The game highlighted serious defensive issues and offensive underperformance, with concerns raised about tackling and rushing efficiency. Head coach DeShaun Foster aims to regroup the team as they prepare for their upcoming match against UNLV, while also focusing on strengthening their recruiting efforts and enhancing team dynamics moving forward.
Los Angeles – The UCLA Bruins have faced a significant setback in their football rankings, plummeting 29 spots to No. 81 in ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) following a 43-10 loss to the Utah Utes on Saturday. This dramatic drop is the third-largest in the nation, trailing only behind Boise State and Florida Atlantic.
In the decisive game against Utah, the Bruins struggled defensively, allowing Utah’s offense to exploit gaps in tackling, with many plays transitioning from a manageable 5-10 yards to damaging 10-15 yard gains. This defensive ineffectiveness has raised concerns among fans and the coaching staff alike.
UCLA’s offense also underperformed, particularly in the running game, where the team managed to accumulate only 37 yards on 15 carries, averaging a mere 2.47 yards per rush. Freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava made a challenging debut, completing 11 of 22 passes and throwing one interception, which occurred when a pass intended for wide receiver Kwaz Gilmer was intercepted by a Utah linebacker.
Despite implementing offensive pre-snap motions that caught attention, the team could not convert these strategies into successful plays following the snap. Head coach DeShaun Foster has acknowledged the need for the team to regroup and focus on improving multiple aspects before their next match.
As the Bruins prepare for their next game against UNLV, the importance of a solid week of practice has become a key talking point for Foster and his coaching staff. DeShaun Foster is now in his second season at the helm, having taken over as head coach in February 2024.
Recent Program Developments
In addition to these immediate concerns, UCLA is making strides in its recruiting efforts for the 2026 class, currently ranked 24th nationally—an improvement from their previous rankings of 40th and 68th in earlier years. The team has also been busy in the transfer portal, acquiring 31 new players, including Iamaleava and his brother Madden.
With a focus on improving the overall dynamics and trajectory of the program, Foster has emphasized the values of communication, chemistry, and accountability among the players. The Bruins’ defensive roster has been impacted by recent NFL draft selections, leaving questions surrounding the effectiveness of the current defense moving forward.
Looking Ahead
UCLA’s season continues with a challenging schedule, opening against Utah at the Rose Bowl on August 30 in 2025. As they prepare, the competition for the backup quarterback position remains intense, with four key players vying for the role during practice sessions.
The running back group has seen enhancements with the return of standout player Jalen Berger and the addition of Jaivian Thomas from Cal. Meanwhile, offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri is working towards enhancing the running game, putting a strong emphasis on physicality and depth.
To accommodate ongoing renovations at Spaulding Field, the team has had to relocate practice to a temporary site. The changes reflect an overall transition within the program as they aim to overcome recent setbacks and build a competitive team for the upcoming season.
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UCLA Football Prepares for Promising Season Ahead
California High School Football Season Kicks Off
UCLA Bruins Enhance Roster Ahead of Upcoming Football Season
Joey Aguilar Named Starting Quarterback for Tennessee
Judge Denies Kaedin Robinson’s Eligibility Request for UCLA
Additional Resources
- USA Today: UCLA Football Coach Deshaun Foster
- SI: Bruins ESPN FPI Utah Utes
- SI: Bruins Postgame Analysis
- On3: UCLA Backup Quarterback Plan
- Daily Bruin: UCLA Football Growth
- Wikipedia: UCLA Bruins Football
- Google Search: UCLA Football 2025
- Google Scholar: UCLA Football Recruiting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: UCLA Football
- Google News: UCLA Bruins
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