UCLA Quarterback Nico Iamaleava Injured, Backup Takes Over Against Oregon

UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava was forced out of the Bruins' game against Oregon at halftime due to a leg injury, a team spokesperson confirmed. Ty Dieffenbach, who transferred from Cal Poly, has taken over as the Bruins' signal-caller for the significant conference matchup.

Iamaleava's performance in the first half was hampered by inefficiency and turnovers. He completed 10 of 17 passes for 162 yards but also threw two interceptions, one of which was returned to Oregon's end zone. Additionally, he fumbled the ball at the 1-yard line, leading to an Oregon touchdown. Iamaleava had a brief scare in the second quarter when he briefly left the game after a collision with two defenders but returned for one play before being replaced at halftime.

This marks Dieffenbach's first appearance for UCLA. He had previously served as the backup to his older brother, Madden Iamaleava. On his first drive of the second half, Dieffenbach nearly connected on a touchdown pass, but the receiver could not secure the catch. The Bruins also utilized a wildcat formation on three consecutive plays, with running back Wayne Knight gaining a first down. Dieffenbach later completed a flea-flicker pass for another first down before being sacked on consecutive plays, ultimately leading to a punt.