Ten reasons why UCLA football, which finished 5-7 in 2024, is expected to win more games in 2025.
1. A Five-Star Transfer Quarterback has arrived in Westwood
The arrival of quarterback Nico Iamaleava through the transfer portal is UCLA's most significant change from last season to this season. Iamaleava, a former five-star recruit, brings a level of talent and pedigree that the Bruins' quarterback room lacked in 2024. Ethan Garbers was a seasoned quarterback for the 2024 squad, but the offense lacked consistency and a potent passing attack. Iamaleava is a proven playmaker, as evidenced by his career at Tennessee, where he amassed 2,930 passing yards and 21 touchdowns. With 435 rushing yards and six touchdowns, his ability to extend plays with his legs will give the UCLA offense a new dimension and a dual-threat presence that can throw defenses off-balance.
2. A more balanced offensive line that will allow for a better passing and running game
In 2024, UCLA's offensive line was a severe weakness that contributed significantly to the team's subpar offensive output. The rushing attack finished third to last in the country, and the unit gave up 32 sacks, which tied for the most in the Big Ten. Under new offensive line coach Andy Kwon, the coaching staff has made significant transfers to the group in order to address this. Players like Julian Armella (Florida State) and Courtland Ford (Kentucky) bring much-needed talent and experience to the team. The level of individual talent and Kwon's coaching skills, which significantly increased Arkansas State's rushing yards per game, suggest a more effective and defensive front line for the 2025 campaign, even though it will take some time for the new unit to develop chemistry.
3. The second year of head coach DeShaun Foster getting his players and system in place
DeShaun Foster took over as head coach for the first time in 2024. With a new staff and a new conference, his first season was a year of transition. Despite having a 5-7 record at the end of the season, the Bruins showed promise, especially in the second half of the season. By 2025, Foster will have been head coach for over a year, and the team will be more accustomed to his system and standards for the program. A more polished and unified team should result from this continuity and a more established culture. His ability to draw in elite talent is demonstrated by the fact that he has already made a significant impression on the transfer portal with Iamaleava.
4. Consistency on the defensive side of the ball
With Ikaika Malloe returning as defensive coordinator, the defense will have more continuity while the offense undergoes a significant transformation. Despite some key losses at linebacker, the defense performed well in certain areas in 2024, particularly in stopping the run, where they ranked fifth in the nation. A strong foundation is provided by the return of players like defensive tackle Siale Taupaki, new transfer additions like Nico Davillier (Arkansas), and a retooled secondary. Because they are already familiar with Malloe's system, the defense won't have to waste time learning new schemes.