UCLA’s Chesney looks beyond No. 5 ranking
UCLA moved to 8-0 after a 27-0 win over Nevada on November 1, reaching No. 5 in the national rankings. Coach Bob Chesney said on November 2 that his focus is on what lies ahead.
UCLA’s shutout of Nevada extended the Bruins’ unbeaten start to eight games and lifted them to fifth nationally, their highest ranking since 2001. The 27-0 result has strengthened hopes of a College Football Playoff berth and ended a run of seasons without a bowl appearance dating back to 2023.
Chesney, who took over the program, said rankings reflect past results rather than the team’s next goals. “The ranking tells us where we’ve been; I’m more interested in where we’re going,” he said during an ESPN appearance on November 2.
The Bruins have allowed an average of 13.4 points per game, third-best in the Big Ten, and have given up no more than one touchdown at home since mid-September. Their defense is led by coordinator Colin Hitscher, who joined Chesney from James Madison.
UCLA has also leaned on its ground game, which leads the Big Ten at 219.5 yards per game and has produced 25 touchdowns. Senior Wayne Knight has carried 110 times for 680 yards and 12 scores. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava is out for the season with a knee injury; Ty Dieffenbach has taken over, throwing for 683 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.
Four games remain, including a visit to Michigan and a season-ending matchup with crosstown rival USC. The report says UCLA would be assured of a playoff spot if it wins out.