News Summary
The UCLA Bruins football team has rebounded from a poor start with a midseason turnaround, achieving a 2-1 record in the Big Ten following key coaching changes. After an initial 0-4 start, the Bruins secured a convincing 38-13 victory over Michigan State. Interim head coach Tim Skipper has revitalized the team’s performance, especially with quarterback Nico Iamaleava showing marked improvement. With upcoming challenges against Ohio State and Indiana, the Bruins are aiming for bowl eligibility and a surprising Big Ten title contention.
Los Angeles, California – The UCLA Bruins football team has experienced a surprising midseason turnaround, transitioning from an initial 0-4 record to a revitalized 2-1 mark in the Big Ten following significant coaching changes. This dramatic shift in performance was highlighted by a decisive 38-13 victory over Michigan State at Spartan Stadium on October 11, 2025.
The Bruins struggled in their first four games, suffering consecutive defeats to Utah, UNLV, New Mexico, and Northwestern. These losses prompted the dismissal of head coach DeShaun Foster after just 15 games in charge, particularly following a loss that left the team winless in three matches. Athletic Director Martin Jarmond acknowledged that Foster was inadequately prepared for the role and expressed regrets about placing him in that position.
In the wake of Foster’s departure, interim head coach Tim Skipper and Jarmond made pivotal changes, notably promoting Jerry Neuheisel to playcaller. The move has proven fruitful, as the Bruins have scored 80 points in just two games after managing only 57 in their first four. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava has notably improved, accumulating 346 passing yards and five touchdown passes without throwing any interceptions over the two games. Iamaleava has also showcased his dual-threat capabilities by adding three rushing touchdowns, significantly boosting the team’s offensive output.
UCLA currently holds a winning record of 2-1 in Big Ten play, a remarkable achievement given their earlier struggles. The Bruins’ recent victories have positioned them as contenders for the Big Ten title, a development that has surprised fans and analysts alike. They are now set to face formidable opponents such as Ohio State and Indiana, marking crucial matchups for the team’s hopes of securing bowl eligibility this season.
Jarmond attended the press box during the Michigan State game, where he took ownership of the team’s improved performance under the new coaching staff. While his presence may suggest increased involvement, he has been criticized for not being available for press discussions following earlier losses. Supporters and detractors of Jarmond are engaged in discussions about his leadership and how his decisions have influenced the team’s transformation.
Interestingly, the UCLA women’s volleyball team has also found success against rival USC after defeating ranked teams, indicating an overall flourishing sports program at the university.
As the Bruins look to solidify their position in the upcoming games, the focus remains on how the coaching adjustments will continue to shape the season. The extraordinary turnaround under head coach Skipper and Neuheisel has captured attention, marking a significant shift for a program that appeared to be faltering just weeks prior. The outlook for UCLA football has changed dramatically, as they are now viewed as a potential contender within their conference.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: Bruins Predicting Second Half Season
- Los Angeles Times: UCLA Unlocked – Oct 13
- Daily Bruin: UCLA Football Topples Michigan State
- OutKick: UCLA Football Now Big Ten Title Contender
- Google Search: UCLA Football Turnaround
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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