After a rough debut in the Big Ten, the UCLA Bruins are pinning their hopes on a new quarterback to initiate their revival. This former five-star recruit, since his arrival, has garnered a lot of hype from the fans.
However, if this hype will actually be translated into on-field results, it is to be seen.
Will UCLA’s New QB Nico Iamaleava Stand Up To The Expectations?
Nico Iamaleava, who transferred from Tennessee, brings undeniable talent to Westwood. He posted a 2024 passer rating of 145.4, throwing for 2,617 yards, 19 touchdowns, and just 5 interceptions over 13 games.
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His QB+ grade of 79.7, in our Top 25 Returning College Football Quarterbacks, beat UCLA’s 2024 starter Ethan Garbers (78.4). However, as a former top recruit from the 2023 class, Iamaleava carries the weight of high expectations, and his first year as a full-time starter showed both promise and leaks that needed to be addressed.
Nico Iamaleava’s 2024 report card
Iamaleava’s 2024 season was a rollercoaster. He shined against Vanderbilt, earning an 83.9 CSN grade, but struggled against Florida, scraping by with a 67.4 (D+). However, his ability to move the chains was solid, converting 40.7% of third and fourth downs.
His rushing skills are just as jaw-dropping, with a 0.9 rush EPA per attempt, which is some of the best among all the returning quarterbacks.
These small showings of skills hint at his potential to transform UCLA’s offense, which derailed in 2024 with finishing only at 6-7. However, his inconsistency raises some concerns.
The biggest red flag is Iamaleava’s performance when the pocket collapses. His pressure EPA per drop-back rank is quite low among qualifying quarterbacks in 2024.
For a team facing brutal Big Ten foes like Ohio State and Michigan, this weakness could mean trouble. Improving his calm under tense situations will be critical if UCLA hopes to climb the conference rankings. With a ruthless schedule coming their way, the program needs all the hope and strength it can muster.
KEEP READING: Top 25 Returning College Football Quarterbacks: John Mateer, Garrett Nussmeier Lead Highest-Graded Passers
In the end, Iamaleava’s 2025 season will be a defining moment for his career. At only 21, Nico Iamaleava is tasked with reviving a proud program. If he can address his struggles under pressure and build on his 2024 stats, he could cement himself as UCLA’s new age star. If not, the Bruins may face another year of what-ifs and disappointment.
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