UCLA’s 5-0 Start Could Shatter 25-Year Drought
UCLA, ranked No. 21, aims for its first 5-0 start and a College Football Playoff berth with a road showdown against No. 13 Oregon.
UCLA is on the brink of one of the most significant moments in its 21st-century football history, with a 5-0 record and a chance to make its first College Football Playoff appearance since 1999 [1]. The Bruins, led by head coach Bob Chesney, are set to face No. 13 Oregon at Autzen Stadium on Saturday, a game that could define their season and their program’s future.
Chesney, who took over after a 0-3 start and firing DeShaun Foster, has transformed UCLA into a top-tier team, with a rushing attack that leads the Big Ten in yards per carry (6.95) and touchdowns (18) [2]. The engine of that offense is tailback Wayne Knight, a former James Madison player who now leads the nation in rushing efficiency.
The challenge comes against Oregon, whose backup quarterback Dylan Raiola has stepped in after starting QB Dante Moore was sidelined with a concussion [1]. Raiola, a former Nebraska starter, has shown flashes of elite-level play, including a strong performance against USC. He’s also familiar with UCLA’s defense, having been knocked out in a 2024 win over the Bruins.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava, after early struggles, has thrown four touchdowns and zero interceptions in his last two games, giving the Bruins confidence at the most critical position [1]. But the team’s discipline remains a concern—UCLA ranks No. 134 in penalty yards per game, a glaring issue against a high-powered Oregon offense averaging 47.5 points per game.
Chesney’s high-energy, culture-first approach has energized the team, with early morning meetings featuring music, intensity, and relentless accountability [2]. His staff, many of whom came from James Madison, have brought a proven system west, including running backs coach A.J. Steward and special teams coordinator Drew Canan.
The stakes are immense: a win would not only secure a historic 5-0 start but also signal UCLA’s return to national relevance after decades of mediocrity and bowl droughts [1]. According to, Chesney has not been confirmed as the first coach in program history to start 5-0, though the claim is reported. The story was first reported by New York Post and ESPN.
Sources
This article is based on reporting by the outlets below.
- New York Post: UCLA facing its biggest game of 21st century; what will win the day for Bruins
- ESPN: How Bob Chesney has completely turned around UCLA
