News Summary
In a thrilling showdown, the Northwestern Wildcats defeated the UCLA Bruins 17-14, leaving UCLA struggling at 0-4 this season. Northwestern’s Caleb Komolafe shined with 119 rushing yards and a touchdown, while quarterback Preston Stone contributed with solid passing. Despite UCLA’s late-game efforts, Northwestern’s defense held strong, ensuring their victory. The game marks a challenging start for UCLA under new coach Tim Skipper, who faces a tough road ahead.
Evanston, Illinois – The Northwestern Wildcats shocked the UCLA Bruins on Saturday, securing a 17-14 victory and leaving the Bruins winless at 0-4. The game, held at Ryan Field, showcased a strong performance by Northwestern, who improved to 2-2 overall and 1-1 in the Big Ten Conference.
Caleb Komolafe was the standout player for Northwestern, rushing for a game-high 119 yards and scoring one touchdown on 27 carries. Quarterback Preston Stone also contributed significantly, completing 12 of 18 passes for 115 yards and one touchdown. In addition, Griffin Wilde had a productive game, catching seven passes for 98 yards, including a touchdown reception.
Northwestern got off to a strong start, scoring on their first three possessions to build a 17-0 lead by the middle of the second quarter. Their scoring included two touchdowns in the second quarter, one of which was a 10-yard pass from Stone to Wilde. The Wildcats demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, averaging 4.7 yards per carry and amassing a total of 199 rushing yards.
In the second half, the Bruins responded with their quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who threw for 180 yards and led UCLA in rushing with 65 yards. Iamaleava connected with Kwazi Gilmer for a 29-yard touchdown pass with only 6:19 left in the fourth quarter, giving UCLA a glimmer of hope. They then managed to cut down the deficit by successfully converting a two-point conversion after the touchdown, bringing the score to 17-14.
Despite the late-game surge by UCLA, Northwestern’s defense proved to be a crucial element in maintaining their lead. Key defensive plays included Ore Adeyi’s significant breakup of a pass intended for Gilmer in the end zone. Robert Fitzgerald led the Wildcats’ defense with nine tackles, underlining their effectiveness throughout the game.
Along with Komolafe’s standout performance, Joseph Himon II contributed to Northwestern’s ground game with 58 yards on eight carries. Northwestern’s Jack Olsen also added to the scoreboard with a 33-yard field goal, while UCLA’s Mateen Bhagani managed to convert field goals of 28 and 25 yards respectively.
The game marked the debut of UCLA’s coach Tim Skipper, who took over after the firing of DeShaun Foster. Unfortunately for Skipper, the Bruins struggled to find momentum, scoring just three points in the first half and failing to take the lead at any point during the match.
Next week, Northwestern will look to build on this win as they take on Louisiana-Monroe, while UCLA gears up to face a daunting challenge against the third-ranked Penn State.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UCLA Parts Ways with Football Coach DeShaun Foster
California High School Football Season Kicks Off
UCLA Bruins Enhance Roster Ahead of Upcoming Football Season
UCLA Football’s Renewed Optimism Under Coach DeShaun Foster
Four-Star Quarterback Oscar Rios Commits to Arizona Wildcats
UCLA Bruins Secure Key Commitments for 2026 Football Class
Mick Cronin’s Future at UCLA in Question Amid Villanova Opening
Additional Resources
- UCLA Wire: Social Media Reaction
- ESPN: Game Recap
- Inside NU: Stock Up/Stock Down
- Rocky Top Insider: Nico Iamaleava Analysis
- Bleacher Report: Nico Iamaleava’s Disappointment
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.
