By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
UCLA improved to 2-0 Saturday with a 28-10 victory over San Diego State, overcoming a scoreless first half with a fourth-quarter explosion led by running back Wayne “Roadrunner” Knight.
Knight scored three touchdowns, including an 8-yard run in the third quarter and touchdown runs of 7 and 36 yards in the fourth. The James Madison transfer has now scored three touchdowns in each of UCLA’s first two games, after accomplishing the feat in the season-opening victory over Cal.
The victory drew 31,973 fans to the Rose Bowl, which seats 89,702. Attendance was up from the 27,785 who attended last season’s home opener against Utah.
“It’s going to continue to grow,” Knight said. “By the end of the year, we’ll have that thing packed up.”
Knight’s second touchdown came after Josh Hunter was flagged for a facemask penalty at the San Diego State 7-yard line, giving UCLA an automatic first down.
Coming off a 45-24 road victory over Cal the previous week, the Bruins and Aztecs went into halftime tied 0-0.
San Diego State finally got on the scoreboard with a 46-yard field goal by Cooper Dileva, cutting UCLA’s lead to 7-3 in the fourth quarter.
“It wasn’t pretty, but it was gritty and we need one of those,” UCLA coach Chesney said. “I loved the resolve that we had and I liked the energy we came back out with in the second half.”
Bruins Find Their Running Game
UCLA finished with more than 200 rushing yards, giving the Bruins consecutive 200-plus-yard rushing performances to open the season. UCLA had reached that mark just once last season.
The Bruins are 2-0 for the first time since 2023. Chesney has now won 12 consecutive regular-season games dating to last season at James Madison.
Veteran quarterback Nico Iamaleava rushed for 57 yards on 13 attempts, marking the sixth game of his career in which he has recorded at least 50 rushing yards. Through the air, Iamaleava completed 14 of 22 passes for 151 yards and one interception.
Defense Sets the Tone
The Bruins’ defense held San Diego State to 189 total yards and 14 first downs. UCLA also controlled possession, holding the ball for 35:55 compared with 25:50 for the Aztecs.
Jalen Woods recorded a career-high 11 tackles, his first career double-digit tackle performance. Malik Harford also established a career high with five tackles.
After a sluggish opening half, the Bruins came alive after halftime and played with noticeable energy and spirit.
“I think it’s the togetherness that we have in our culture,” Knight said. “It’s how connected we are with the offense. You know, as a team in general, being able to be that close with guys that you’re going to war with is important, and it shows up in big moments like tonight.”
Next Up
The Bruins return to the Rose Bowl this Saturday to host Purdue.