One of the biggest stories of the offseason was when quarterback Nico Iamaleava unexpectedly transferred from Tennessee to UCLA. His decision came because of a contract dispute. QB Joey Aguilar ended transferring from UCLA to Tennessee in response. Many fans and media members have questioned the wisdom of Iamaleava’s decision to transfer. He was part of a strong team that would have helped his development.
However, one big figure in the college football world had no issues with Iamaleava’s decision to transfer. Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban sent a clear message to Iamaleava on Saturday, saying that he can cheer for him now that he is no longer a member of the Volunteers.
“I’ve never rooted for you the whole time you were at Tennessee, but I love your a** right now,” Nick Saban wrote.
Nick Saban had some words for Nico Iamaleava after choosing UCLA as his Super Dog 😂
(via @CollegeGameDay) pic.twitter.com/TyGm9IQsif
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) September 27, 2025
These comments have to do with the historic rivalry between Alabama and Tennessee. He made the comments ahead of UCLA’s game against Northwestern.
Nico Iamaleava and the UCLA Bruins Try To Pick Up Their First Win of the Season
While Nick Saban is happy that he can cheer for Nico Iamaleava now that he is not at Tennessee, early on in the season, it does not look like it was a good career move. Iamaleava has struggled to get the UCLA offense going. While he has completed 62 of 97 passing attempts for 217 yards, he only has three TD passes. To make matters worse, he has thrown three interceptions. At Tennessee last season, Iamaleava only threw five interceptions all year while completing his passes at roughly the same rate.
The Bruins lost all of their first three games of the year. However, they will have an opportunity to get their first win on Saturday. They are matched up against the Northwestern Wildcats, who have only won one of their first three games. Both teams are coming off bye weeks and should be well rested.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET. It will likely be the last chance for UCLA to get in the win column for a few weeks. Next week, they will play the No. 3-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions.
Read More:
- Top 10 Hilarious Nico Iamaleava Jokes Cracking Up the Internet After Massive New Mexico-UCLA Loss
- Nico Iamaleava Transfer Portal: 5 Landing Spots If UCLA QB Quits After Nightmare Start To Season
- “Shoutout To Dad For Ruining His Career”: Fans Roast Nico Iamaleava As Utah Bullies UCLA In 33-Point Blowout Loss
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