UCLA Coach Bob Chesney Addresses Job Speculation: 'I Love It Here'
The highly successful first-year coach reassures fans and administrators about his commitment to UCLA amid a rapidly rising reputation.
UCLA football coach Bob Chesney emphatically stated Tuesday that he is happy and committed to his role in Westwood, addressing fan concerns about his potential departure amid his burgeoning reputation.
"This is the greatest place in the world to play football. I think it’s the greatest place in the world to coach football. I think I’m extremely blessed to be here," Chesney said. "My family loves it here, I love it here. So I truly love it."
Chesney, in his first year with the Bruins, has led the team to an undefeated record, reaching No. 7 in the national rankings. The team is 7-0 overall and 5-0 in the Big Ten Conference, positioning them as contenders for the College Football Playoff. This success marks a significant achievement for a program that has not appeared in a major bowl game since the 1999 Rose Bowl.
His immediate impact at UCLA has drawn attention across the college football landscape, a trajectory that has followed him through various levels of the sport. This success could make Chesney a sought-after candidate in a dynamic coaching market, especially with existing openings at programs like Baylor, N.C. State, and Maryland, and the likelihood of more to come.
Chesney expressed optimism about the program's future, noting a shared vision and energy for moving forward. "The vision that I have for this place as an outsider looking in, is all things that are being met with that same energy, a plan of moving forward, an idea of chasing greatness and not being afraid to consider this big-time college football and to start building the program that way. So, very excited about our future and how things roll," he stated.
The Bruins are set to play Nevada on Saturday at the Rose Bowl, with an opportunity to improve to 8-0 for the first time since 2005. This nonconference game is a rare occurrence in the middle of their season.
Given Chesney's success and the team's performance, the university may consider revising his current five-year, $33.75 million contract to include additional years and increased compensation, along with potential raises for his coaching staff.