Bob Chesney’s UCLA Era Off to Dream Start After Rose Bowl Debut

The UCLA Bruins put together a great second half to win their home opener 28-10 against San Diego State and continue the momentum of the Bob Chesney era.

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In Week 1, the Bruins traveled to Berkley and beat Cal, which has its own new coach and message to send. Now, a week later, they didn’t let down and won Chesney’s Rose Bowl debut.

A second half to remember

The Bruins and Aztecs did not score in the first half, though UCLA had the better drives and looked like the more threatening team.

At halftime, it looked like UCLA might regret their missed chances, including a Nico Iamaleava interception in the end zone.

Sep 12, 2026; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA head coach Bob Chesney speaks with quarterback Nico Iamaleava (9) after defeating San Diego State at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images

In the second half, the run game saw a lot more success, and Wayne Knight proved to be the difference, scoring three touchdowns and rushing for 97 yards.

“It wasn’t pretty, but it was gritty and we need one of those,” Chesney said. “I loved the resolve that we had and I liked the energy we came back out with in the second half.”

The real stars of the game were the defense, which allowed just three points until the last couple of minutes. They also managed an interception and a fumble to create some havoc.

There are some concerns, especially about the passing game for the Bruins, which has not looked good yet, but with a potent rushing attack, they can scheme up some opportunities.

Sep 12, 2026; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA running back Wayne Knight (3) looks on after completing a touchdown during the second half against San Diego State at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images

Iamaleava needs to trust his pocket and time to throw, allowing his footwork to help his accuracy and confidence

Against the heart of their Big Ten schedule, these factors may come into play, but until then, they can be even the middle tier of the conference, and that is something the school has not been able to say in years.

That is the Bob Chesney effect.

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