Hope springs eternal after UCLA’s early showing under Bob Chesney
UCLA football showed promising signs during spring practices under new head coach Bob Chesney, with standout performances on both offense and defense. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava, now fully acclimated after transferring from Tennessee, demonstrated improved command of the offense. The team's energy and playmaking ability have raised expectations ahead of the 2026 season opener.
- ▪Bob Chesney brought high energy to practices, actively engaging in drills and emphasizing attention to detail.
- ▪Nico Iamaleava has adapted well to UCLA's offensive system and aims to increase explosive plays under coordinator Dean Kennedy.
- ▪Defensive standouts included edge rushers Sahir West and Scott Taylor, linebacker Sammy Omosigho, and defensive back Osiris Gilbert.
- ▪Wide receiver Brian Rowe Jr. consistently made highlight-reel catches during spring practices.
- ▪UCLA's defense, which struggled last season, showed marked improvement in generating pressure and disrupting plays.
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Sports Hope springs eternal after UCLA’s early showing under Bob Chesney By Ben Bolch Published May 4, 2026, 8:27 p.m. ET They backed up the buzz. While a new era always generates a certain level of excitement, UCLA football players displayed enough promise this spring to daydream about an immediate resurgence. Already a big-time quarterback, Nico Iamaleava appeared capable of elevating his game. Explosive edge rusher Sahir West looked like the sort of defensive playmaker the team lacked last season. Wide receiver Brian Rowe Jr. is going to show up on a lot of sports highlight segments. 3 With new coach Bob Chesney setting a relentlessly energetic tone by covering more ground than the lawnmowers that roam the practice field, the Bruins resembled a team on the verge of a breakthrough.
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