Identifying Weaknesses That UCLA Must Address

Breaking down each of UCLA's biggest weaknesses before the Chesney-era fully kicks off

Dec 9, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins football coach Bob Chesney (left) poses with athletic director Martin Jarmond at intoductory press conference at Renee Luskin Conference Center Centennial Ballroom. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

With the Bob Chesney era set to begin once James Madison’s CFP run concludes, UCLA will still have several roster gaps to address upon his arrival.

It is nice to think that with Bob Chesney joining the Bruins, they will become college football playoff contenders right away. However, the Bruins' roster is still a ways off from making noise, especially given the absolute bust the early-signing window was.

Defense

Nov 22, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams Jr. (2) gets by UCLA Bruins defensive back Andre Jordan Jr. (2) and defensive back Cole Martin (21) as he runs for a touchdown during the first half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Defensively, in 2025, the Bruins struggled to get anything substantial going. While there were some flashes during their three-game win streak, most of it, if not all, goes to the offense. Entering the transfer portal, the Bruins have lost out on both Scooter Jackson and Cole Martin.

They really haven't hit on anything either in the early-signing window. The Bruins would lose out on Carter Gooden and Anthony Jones, both four-star recruits who play on the defensive line. As it stands now, UCLA does not have a game wrecker on its line.

Nov 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans tight end Lake McRee (87) is tackled by UCLA Bruins defensive back Scooter Jackson (28) in the second half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Under Bob Chesney, JMU was considered a powerhouse at defense, as they were 10th in points allowed and 2nd in rushing defense, both of which contributed heavily. Without a strong defensive year from James Madison, there is a good chance they would not be in the playoffs.

Running Backs and Offensive Line

Nov 15, 2025; Columbus, Ohio, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Anthony Frias II (22) runs the ball as Ohio State Buckeyes safety Leroy Roker (28) makes the tackle during the third quarter at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images | Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

Both position groups will need to be revamped this offseason. Like the defensive line, UCLA would also lose out on a four-star recruit offensive lineman in Micah Smith. However, outside of him, UCLA was able to grab a few other notable three stars, who will be crucial in rebuilding UCLA's offense.

JMU's offensive identity is its run game, something that Dean Kennedy will most likely bring to UCLA. In order for this to happen for the Bruins, they need to start with the offensive line and worry about landing bigger transfers later, such as Wayne Knight if he decides to enter the portal.

Sep 5, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; James Madison Dukes running back Wayne Knight (3) tries to avoid the tackle of Louisville Cardinals linebacker Antonio Watts (9) during the first half at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Louisville defeated James Madison 28-14. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images | Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images

The Bruins' running game this season was awful, only rushing for 1,676 yards across the entire season. Without a very solid run game, the Bruins could be hosed next season. The passing game is only as good as the run game allows it to be, as shown this season with Nico Iamaleava.

Nov 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava (9) carries the ball against the Southern California Trojans in the first half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

If the Bruins can patch these weaknesses, they should be looking strong for the 2026 campaign. Bob Chesney will need all hands on deck for this to be possible, from donors and players willing to buy into this new look UCLA team.

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