News Summary
Following two consecutive defeats, UCLA football coach DeShaun Foster faces growing concerns regarding his job security. After a disappointing start to the season, including a heavy loss against Utah and a close game with UNLV, doubts about Foster’s leadership have surfaced. With a significant salary and previous expectations, the Bruins must address both team deficiencies and poor performances if they hope to change their fortunes this season.
Los Angeles, CA – UCLA football coach DeShaun Foster’s job security is under increasing scrutiny following consecutive defeats to start the 2025 season. The Bruins, who entered this year with optimism after securing transfer quarterback Nico Iamaleava, suffered a disappointing 43-10 loss to Utah in their opener, followed by a 30-23 setback against UNLV. These results have raised questions about Foster’s capacity to lead the team effectively and maintain his position as head coach.
The loss to UNLV was particularly alarming, as the scoreline did not fully reflect the game’s lack of competitiveness. Foster’s second season began with high expectations after his debut year included several standout victories. However, the current performance has not lived up to those hopes. CBS Sports experts have openly discussed the possibility of a coaching change if results do not improve, highlighting the precarious nature of Foster’s situation.
Foster’s compensation, set at $3.1 million for this season, also contrasts sharply with that of his predecessor, Chip Kelly, who earned significantly more. Should the university choose to part ways with Foster before December 1, they would incur a cost of 70% of his remaining salary, which decreases to 60% should the decision be made after that date. Foster’s salary places him as the 58th highest-paid coach among public schools in his first year, a status reflecting his relatively limited coaching experience, as he previously held no head coaching or coordinator titles before taking the Bruins’ reins.
Despite the challenges, Foster was initially brought in to strengthen ties with the program’s boosters and alumni, leveraging his prior experience as the Bruins’ running backs coach from 2017 to 2023. Nevertheless, significant deficiencies in the team’s roster have come to light, particularly on the offensive line and at the receiver position, casting doubts on Foster’s ability to construct a competitive team.
Iamaleava’s camp expressed concerns before the season regarding both the offensive line’s and receivers’ capabilities, fears that have now echoed in the team’s performances. Over the course of their first two games, the Bruins have scored only 33 points, underscoring offensive struggles that have hindered potential scoring opportunities. These early season difficulties suggest deeper issues that may affect the team’s overall performance and cohesion.
The team has also been unable to avoid costly penalties, which have impeded crucial drives and limited scoring chances. Iamaleava acknowledged that he needs to elevate his play, recognizing a slow start against UNLV. Team discipline and emotional readiness have become points of concern, with experts suggesting these factors significantly contributed to the team’s current struggles.
As UCLA grapples with its disappointing start, the pressure mounts on head coach DeShaun Foster to not only improve the team’s performance but also secure his place within the program. Time will tell if Foster can turn the Bruins’ fortunes around and silence doubts about his leadership before the season spirals further out of control. The forthcoming games will be critical in determining both the future of the Bruins’ season and Foster’s position as head coach.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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UCLA Football Struggles in Season Opener Against Utah
UCLA Football Implements Strict Media Policies
Nico Iamaleava Transfers to UCLA Amid NIL Debate
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California High School Football Season Kicks Off
Additional Resources
- Athlon Sports
- Wikipedia: UCLA Bruins Football
- CBS Sports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- 247 Sports
- Google News: UCLA Football
- Sports Illustrated
- Google Search: Nico Iamaleava
- Rocky Top Insider
- Google Scholar: Nico Iamaleava
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
