The UCLA Bruins opened their 2025 season with a commanding 45-24 road victory over the California Golden Bears, delivering the first win under new head coach Bob Chesney.
A Promising Start for the Bruins
The triumph not only improved UCLA’s all‑time record in season‑opener games to 70‑33‑5, but also lifted Chesney’s personal mark to 13‑4, underscoring a strong beginning to his tenure.
Offensively, running back Wayne Knight delivered two of his career‑best three touchdowns in the final quarter, while quarterback Nico Iamaleava added a rushing score and completed 14 of 22 passes for 184 yards, despite an interception.
Wide receiver Mikey Matthews contributed a career‑high 88 receiving yards, and the defense was anchored by Sammy Omosigho’s 14 tackles, a sack and two tackles for loss, as well as two interceptions from Ta’Shawn James and a sack by Derrick Barksdale.
California’s effort was led by Adam Mohammed, who amassed 120 yards on the ground and caught seven passes for 46 yards, while quarterback Jaron‑Keawe Sagapolutele threw for two touchdowns and two interceptions.
The Bruins pulled away in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Golden Bears 21‑0 to seal the win, and now turn their attention to a home matchup against San Diego State on September 12 at the Rose Bowl Stadium.