
UCLA Football Looks to Break Bowl Drought Under Coach Bob Chesney
Coach Bob Chesney’s second year at UCLA brings a focus on hard work, steady growth and a clear process, as the Bruins target bowl eligibility for the first time since 2023.
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Coach Bob Chesney’s second year at UCLA brings a focus on hard work, steady growth and a clear process, as the Bruins target bowl eligibility for the first time since 2023.

UCLA’s 2026 football season introduces head coach Bob Chesney and a revamped defense, centered on transfer linebacker Ryan McCulloch, who aims to restore the Bruins’ competitive edge.

Coach Bob Chesney brings a ten‑player core from James Madison and a 2026 recruiting class to UCLA, hoping to reshape an offense that ranked 125th nationally and a defense that allowed 33.4 points per game.

After a standout high school career and a breakout redshirt freshman season, Sahir West joins UCLA under new head coach Bob Chesney, bringing hope of a dramatic turnaround for a unit that finished last in the Big Ten in sacks.

A former James Madison standout, West brings elite sack production and versatility that could revitalize UCLA’s defense.

Scooter Jackson, a versatile cornerback for UCLA, has risen from a modest high school recruitment to a pivotal role in the team’s defense, drawing praise for his adaptability and playmaking ability.

After a standout transfer from Oregon, Rodrick Pleasant is entering his redshirt junior year with the Bruins, hoping a revamped defensive scheme and fresh leadership will translate into draft‑ready performance.

After a 3‑9 finish, the Bruins are banking on fresh arms and secondary upgrades to climb back into contention

Dante Lovett, a three‑star recruit from DeMatha High School, transfers from Virginia Tech to UCLA, bringing athleticism and experience to a secondary that struggled last year. Coaches Bob Chesney, Colin Hitschler and Eddie Whitley Jr. see him as a key piece to restore defensive strength alongside standout Scooter Jackson.

UCLA’s head coach Bob Chesney is reshaping the program, retaining quarterback Nico Iamaleava and adding talent from across the country, aiming for a competitive season and a bowl berth.

Bob Chesney arrives at UCLA with a highly touted 2027 recruiting class, but his long‑term impact will depend on turning early promise into wins.