Lizzie Vargas

Lizzie Vargas

Sep 23, 2023; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Darius Muasau (53) prepares to tackle Utah Utes wide receiver Devaughn Vele (17) in the second half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

UCLA’s season opener against Utah is more than just Week 1—it’s a chance for DeShaun Foster and Nico Iamaleava to prove the Bruins are contenders, setting the tone for a breakout season at the Rose Bowl.

Lizzie Vargas
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Nov 30, 2024; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins helmets during pregame warmups before playing the Fresno State Bulldogs at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

UCLA enters 2025 with a new offensive coordinator and plenty of receiver questions. With injuries and departures creating gaps, the Bruins need a reliable target and a bolder approach from DeShaun Foster to turn close wins into statement victories.

Lizzie Vargas
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Jul 24, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava speaks to the media during the Big Ten NCAA college football media days at Mandalay Bay Resort. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images

UCLA’s 2025 season won’t just come down to star QB Nico Iamaleava. For the Bruins to surprise in Year Two under Deshaun Foster, their defense must rebound, force turnovers, and provide the consistency needed to push for a bowl game in the Big Ten.

Lizzie Vargas
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Nov 8, 2024; Pasadena, California, USA;  UCLA Bruins head coach DeShaun Foster on the sidelines during the second half against the the Iowa Hawkeyes at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

DeShaun Foster leads UCLA into the Big Ten era with a revamped team, bringing toughness, depth, and talent. With key transfers and a solid coaching staff, the Bruins aim to surprise in 2025–2026.

Lizzie Vargas
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