Backup QB Ty Dieffenbach Steps Up in UCLA's Crucial Victory Over Oregon

EUGENE, Ore. — UCLA's backup quarterback Ty Dieffenbach, who had not thrown a pass all season, unexpectedly stepped into a critical role Saturday, guiding the Bruins to a significant victory over Oregon.

With starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava sidelined due to a leg injury late in the second quarter, Dieffenbach was called upon to lead the No. 21 Bruins against the No. 13 Ducks in a nationally televised game at Autzen Stadium.

"When I heard that," Dieffenbach said, "I was just tunnel-visioned and ready to go execute."

Dieffenbach, a transfer from Cal Poly, played the entire second half, throwing the decisive touchdown pass in the fourth quarter and managing the offense to help his team secure a 17-15 win, keeping the Bruins undefeated. The victory marks a significant achievement for UCLA, now 5-0 overall and 3-0 in Big Ten play.

Coach Bob Chesney explained that Dieffenbach was chosen over another backup, Madden Iamaleava, due to his strong week of practice and his ability to run the ball effectively, a key factor in a game where the Bruins needed him to step up. Chesney emphasized his team's philosophy that players are "exposed or revealed when someone goes down and a teammate must step up."

"For Ty to step up in that moment when Nico couldn’t go," Chesney said, "he put himself in a spot where he was revealed for knowing the run game, knowing what to get us into, the touchdown pass."

The game-winning score came on third-and-3 from Oregon's 9-yard line. Dieffenbach rolled out and connected with running back Wayne Knight, who had isolated a defender, for a touchdown. Knight finished the game with 103 rushing yards and the crucial touchdown reception.

Dieffenbach's statistics for the game included three completions on six attempts for 43 yards and a touchdown. He also had one rushing attempt for six yards, though he faced a few sacks.

Despite his limited action throughout the season, Dieffenbach demonstrated poise and leadership. His first significant play saw him nearly connect for a touchdown, but the pass was just out of reach for wide receiver Brian Rowe Jr. Iamaleava briefly returned for one play, resulting in an interception, before being ruled unable to continue.

Iamaleava's injury appeared to be more than just a thigh contusion, according to Chesney, and would require further evaluation.

Dieffenbach's collegiate career prior to this game included a season at Cal Poly, where he threw for 1,305 yards, nine touchdowns, and nine interceptions. He also spent two seasons at Pittsburgh without appearing in a game.

UCLA offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy, who had recruited Dieffenbach previously, invited him to join the Bruins after he entered the transfer portal. Dieffenbach described the decision as a "no-brainer."

Reflecting on the game, Dieffenbach spoke about envisioning such a moment, sharing conversations with his father who was present at the game. "It was just great, man," Dieffenbach said, "and it was a big one for my family, for my hometown, and for everybody."

The victory over Oregon positions UCLA for a promising season ahead.