UCLA Quarterback Nico Iamaleava Speaks On Season Ending Injury

Iamaleava Speaks Out After Season Ending Injury

UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava has broken his silence after a leg injury cut his year short. The quarterback shared his thoughts on Instagram on Thursday following his injury during a win at Oregon on Oct. 11.

Late in the first half against Oregon, two defenders tackled Iamaleava, and his left leg appeared to twist. He returned for one play before sitting out the second half. Coach Bob Chesney later confirmed that Iamaleava will miss the remainder of the season and is expected to undergo surgery.

Iamaleava admitted he is heartbroken over how things turned out. He wrote that he has finally accepted that this year is over for him. He added that he gave the game everything he had and promised that he will be back.

Bruins Turn To Dieffenbach As Streak Continues

The seventh ranked Bruins currently hold a 7-0 record as they prepare to host 3-4 Nevada on Saturday. Senior Ty Dieffenbach will make his third start under center in place of Iamaleava.

Dieffenbach has thrown for 505 yards with two touchdowns and one interception so far this year. Before his injury, Iamaleava passed for 982 yards with four touchdowns and four interceptions. He also added 144 rushing yards and one touchdown on the ground.

Iamaleava transferred to UCLA from Tennessee in April 2025. He still has one year of eligibility remaining for his college career.

What it means for the next game

Nevada Wolf Pack at UCLA Bruins (College Football, Sat, 31 Oct): UCLA Bruins win 92%, Nevada Wolf Pack win 8%; projected score UCLA Bruins 34, Nevada Wolf Pack 11. Our safest pick: Over 34.5 points.

UCLA Bruins at Minnesota Golden Gophers (College Football, Sat, 07 Nov): Minnesota Golden Gophers win 33%, UCLA Bruins win 67%; projected score Minnesota Golden Gophers 19, UCLA Bruins 24. Our safest pick: Minnesota +16.5.