Nico Iamaleava, UCLA's starting quarterback, has openly acknowledged a recent slump in his passing performance, characterizing the past two games as potentially the worst of his career. He has noted issues with timing, accuracy, and decision-making on the field. Following UCLA's 28-10 victory over San Diego State, Iamaleava stated that he needs to "play way better" for the team to succeed in larger matchups.
This marks the first time since October 2024 that Iamaleava has gone consecutive games without throwing a touchdown pass. Compounding the issue, he has thrown two interceptions in the red zone, including one against San Diego State where a pass intended for tight end Harry Lodge lacked sufficient velocity. "Obviously, I can’t turn the ball over down there on the 2-yard line," Iamaleava commented.
Iamaleava's statistics reflect these concerns, with a 63.6% completion rate for 335 yards on 28 of 44 passes. His quarterback rating of 118.5 places him 17th among Big Ten starters. He identified his comfort level with new offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy as a factor, noting the ongoing process of "Him learning me, me learning him." This marks the fourth offensive coordinator change in the last three years for Iamaleava.
Head coach Bob Chesney suggested that improved chemistry would develop with more repetitions and practice. "I think for us right now, making sure that we all see it the same way and we believe in it the same way and we know that we can execute it the same way," Chesney said, "and that’s just practice throughout the week of making sure we’re seeing those completions made."
Chesney did acknowledge Iamaleava's contributions in crucial moments, highlighting his ability to extend drives with his legs in the fourth quarter and make timely, accurate passes. However, he stressed the need for more consistent execution from the offense, stating, "Those are the things that we need all the time."
Injuries to key wide receivers have also impacted the offense. Players like Brian Rowe Jr., Mikey Matthews, Landon Ellis, Aidan Mizell, and tight end Josh Phifer have been sidelined. Despite these absences, wide receiver Semaj Morgan had a standout performance against San Diego State, with a career-high six catches for 73 yards, including two critical receptions on a scoring drive.
While the running game has compensated for the passing game's struggles, accumulating 277 yards and four touchdowns against San Diego State, Iamaleava recognized the team's reliance on this aspect. "It feels great to have a supporting cast that even if I don’t play the best, we can still go out and win," he said. However, he implied that this formula may not be sustainable as the team faces tougher competition, particularly as its Big Ten schedule begins.
