The UCLA Bruins college football program represents the University of California, Los Angeles in NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) competition. As a member of the Big Ten Conference, the Bruins have a storied history in college football dating back to their first season in 1919. The team's colors are blue and gold, and their mascot is Joe Bruin, a costumed bear that rallies fans and represents the spirit of the university.
The Bruins play their home games at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium, located in Pasadena, California. The Rose Bowl, with a seating capacity of over 88,000, is not only one of the largest stadiums in college football but also one of the most historic, having hosted numerous Rose Bowl Games and BCS National Championships.
UCLA's football program has a rich tradition of success, highlighted by several conference championships and a national championship. The Bruins won their lone national title in 1954, a season in which they were unbeaten and led by legendary head coach Red Sanders. Over the decades, the program has produced numerous All-Americans, Hall of Famers, and NFL stars, including greats like Troy Aikman, Kenny Easley, Jonathan Ogden, and Maurice Jones-Drew.
The team is known for its fierce rivalry with the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans. This crosstown rivalry, known as the "Battle for Los Angeles," culminates annually in a game that often has significant implications for both teams' seasons and adds to the rich football culture of the city, the winner receiving the Victory Bell for the next year.
Under the leadership of various head coaches over the years, the Bruins have developed a reputation for competitive play, innovative strategies, and a commitment to athletic and academic excellence. With a fan base that is both passionate and loyal, the UCLA Bruins continue to be a major force in college football, embodying the spirit of their university and the tradition of excellence that has defined their program for over a century.