The No. 12 UCLA Bruins aim to extend their undefeated streak to 6-0 on Saturday against Wisconsin, but will do so with backup quarterback Ty Dieffenbach making his first start. The unexpected shift comes as starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava is expected to miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury.
Dieffenbach, who helped UCLA secure a victory over Oregon last weekend in relief, is now tasked with leading an offense that has relied heavily on its potent rushing attack. The Bruins lead the Big Ten in rushing yards per game (253.2) and rushing touchdowns (19), spearheaded by running back Wayne Knight. Knight has surpassed 100 rushing yards in three consecutive games and leads the nation with 13.2 points per game, also ranking fourth in the FBS with 11 touchdowns.
Despite the transition at quarterback, coach Bob Chesney indicated the team's offensive identity will not drastically change. "We don’t look and say, ‘Hey, this guy’s coming in, let’s make it 70-30 [run-pass],’” Chesney stated. “The game’s gotta still be played between those 11 guys on the field and we’ve gotta be able to match up with whatever we’re getting defensively.” Dieffenbach has shown an ability to make plays, including a game-winning touchdown pass against Oregon.
UCLA's defense has also been a significant factor in their success, leading the FBS with 19 forced turnovers through five games, tied with New Mexico. Defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler attributes the takeaway success to an aggressive approach and the ball "falling in our hands." The team emphasizes attacking the ball when it's loose and being intentional about creating turnovers.
Wisconsin's offense will be led by quarterback Colton Joseph, a familiar face for the Bruins' coaching staff. Last season, Joseph was the Sun Belt Conference's Offensive Player of the Year at Old Dominion and showed his explosive capabilities against James Madison. This season, he has completed 58% of his passes for 1,132 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions, while also rushing for 262 yards and three touchdowns.
The Bruins face potential challenges in their secondary due to injuries. Safety Tao Johnson is out, and cornerbacks Rodrick Pleasant and CJ Lavender are listed as questionable. Wisconsin will also be dealing with injuries, as cornerback Cai Bates is sidelined, and running back Nate Palmer is doubtful.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 4:30 p.m. PDT on NBC at the Rose Bowl. This marks the beginning of the Ty Dieffenbach era for UCLA, as the team looks to maintain its perfect record against a challenging Wisconsin defense.