Full Breakdown
Bob Chesney’s Era Opens with a 45-24 Victory Over California
9/7/2026, 2:28:29 AM
Core Event
UCLA defeated California 45-24 in the season opener, marking head coach Bob Chesney’s first game and giving the Bruins a 1-0 start in the Big Ten. UCLA logged 277 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, while the defense forced three turnovers, including two fourth-quarter interceptions by safety Ta’Shawn James.
Background & Context
Both teams entered with new head coaches—Bob Chesney for UCLA and Tosh Lupoi for Cal—after the recent conference realignment that moved UCLA to the Big Ten and Cal to the ACC. The rivalry, played annually since 1933, resumed after a pause, and the schools now share a $10 million yearly payment dubbed “Calimony” as part of the UC Regents’ settlement.
Data & Statistics
- Total offense: 461 yards (UCLA) – the most for the program since October 2024.
- Rushing: 277 yards, highest single-game total since the 2023 LA Bowl.
- Rushing TDs: six (Wayne Knight 3, Anthony Woods 2, Nico Iamaleava 1).
- Passing: Iamaleava 14-of-22 for 184 yards, one interception.
- Turnovers forced: three (two interceptions by James, one forced fumble by linebacker Sammy Omosigho).
- Fourth-quarter scoring: 21 points, the most in any quarter of the 2025 season.
Official Statements & Responses
Chesney highlighted the running game and the defense’s ability to create turnovers. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava, returning from a brief leg injury, thanked the coaching staff and noted the first-game ball was presented to Chesney in recognition of his leadership. UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk and athletic director Tim Harris attended the post-game press conference, emphasizing the stability brought by the new administration.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The only reason you can come here,” — Bob Chesney, UCLA head coach
- “For the man who came in here and made us believe in something we didn’t believe in before,” — Nico Iamaleava
On-the-Ground Reports
The crowd of 54,283 saw Cal briefly lead on a one-yard run by Adam Mohammed. UCLA answered with long-yard plays, including a 43-yard reception by Mikey Matthews that set up a field goal before halftime. In the fourth quarter, Wayne Knight’s two touchdowns—31-yard and 4-yard runs—sealed the win.
Why It Matters
The win shows Chesney’s power-running and opportunistic defensive approach can produce results in the Big Ten. It also highlights the impact of conference realignment on traditional rivalries, reviving the matchup under new league affiliations.
What’s Next
UCLA’s next game is early September against San Diego State at the Rose Bowl. Cal will travel to Syracuse for its subsequent contest.
