Looking back on UCLA'S 2025 season game one against Utah

UCLA opened the 2025 season at home against Utah. In an offseason that was filled with hope, quickly turned sour with a lopsided loss. Utah put their foot on the pedal from the opening kickoff and kept it all the way through the game. Ultimately winning 43-10 and sending UCLA into beginning the season 0-4 and firing Deshaun Foster three games into the season. The defense struggled all night tackling, and the offense just couldn’t seem to get any consistency.

The only touchdown on the night came from a nice flare out route by Anthony Woods. Nico Iamaleava was able to hit him in stride for a nice touchdown. Utah was up 20-0 at that point. That touchdown and a field goal cut it to 20-10. Giving UCLA a little bit of hope that they could climb back in the game. Only to have it go out the window with tough tackling issues again. Utah scored 23 straight to close the game leading to the 43-10 final.

Devon Dampier carved up the Bruins by going 21-25 on the night for 206 yards and two touchdowns. He also added 87 yards on the ground and another touchdown. Utah was an absurd 15-17 on third and fourth down and it was not a night where the Bruins ever really had a chance. The defense gave up a total of 492 yards on the night. Which included 286 yards on the ground.

UCLA was only able to generate 220 yards of their own on offense. It was a very disappointing game where fans left very early into the second half. The only receiver that caught a ball that night that is still on the 2026 roster is Mikey Matthews. Who figures to play a large role as a slot receiver. UCLA will be better equipped this year around for their opening game against Cal. They were outmatched from the start against Utah to open the season.