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UCLA opens Bob Chesney era with a 45-24 win over former Pac-12 rival California
Wayne Knight scored three touchdowns and Anthony Woods added 118 rushing yards as UCLA erased a tie with 21 unanswered fourth-quarter points.
On Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, UCLA defeated California 45-24 in Berkeley, Calif., in the first game under head coach Bob Chesney. The home team overcame early deficits to secure the win.
Following a challenging 3-9 season with the Big Ten's worst defense, the team showed significant improvement on Saturday through defensive stops and a revitalized rushing attack that powered the victory.
Transfer running back Wayne Knight scored three touchdowns and rushed for 71 yards, while running back Anthony Woods added 118 rushing yards and two scores; quarterback Nico Iamaleava passed for 184 yards in the win.
Fueled by two interceptions from transfer safety Ta'Shawn James, the team outscored their opponent 21-0 in the fourth quarter; despite an injury scare for the quarterback, they maintained the momentum to seal the win.
At the Rose Bowl on Sept. 12, 2026, the team will face San Diego State for their home opener. This matchup offers an opportunity to build on their season-opening success.