Quarterback edition season review Nico Iamaleava

Nico Iamaleava was the star pull in a 2025 transfer class that former head coach Deshaun Foster brought in. After a lot of rumors about NIL decisions, Iamaleava ultimately decided on UCLA to come in and be QB1. This was supposed to be a season where the Bruins could compete. Things didn’t go according to planned and UCLA started out of the gates 0-3 and relieved Foster of his duties. Leading to people questioning what Iamaleava’s future would look like.

There was not one moment in a season full of disappointment that Iamaleava complained or made a big deal. He went out every Saturday and competed as hard as he could to win. The Bruins did go on a three-game winning streak after starting 0-4, which took college football by storm. But that all came crashing down after a 56-6 loss to Indiana. As those three games were the only games that UCLA would win all year. UCLA stumbled over the last five games finishing 3-9 and not really competing in any.

Iamaleava consistently had to be on the move to keep away from pressure. As the pocket was constantly breaking down and forcing him into quick decisions. It also led to multiple injuries that he battled this season, including a concussion. Forcing him to miss the Ohio State game in Columbus. On the season he finished with 505 rushing yards and four touchdowns. Keeping a lot of drives going when they should’ve ended. His passing numbers were 1,928 yards, 13 touchdowns and seven interceptions. While completing 64.4% of his passes.

His future is still in limbo, but his potential is still really high. He needs an offensive line in front of him that allows him to have time to throw. When the pocket breaks down in under three seconds it is hard to gauge a player. We saw what he could do in the Penn State and Michigan State games when he is protected and gets in a rhythm. Five touchdowns and zero interceptions on 68% completions. Now we just wait and see what his decision will be and if we will get a year two under Bob Chesney with him.