UCLA QB Nico Iamaleava ‘Day to Day’ Ahead of Washington Clash

After a heavy 48-10 loss to No. 1 Ohio State, UCLA’s quarterback situation remains in flux. Nico Iamaleava, sidelined with a concussion, is now listed as “day to day” by interim head coach Tim Skipper, leaving open the possibility he could return for Saturday’s matchup against Washington.

Iamaleava, a polarizing transfer from Tennessee, struggled to start his first season in Westwood. Through UCLA’s first three games, he completed 3 touchdowns against 3 interceptions for 608 passing yards while adding 139 rushing yards and a rushing score. The team’s 35-10 loss to New Mexico prompted the firing of head coach DeShaun Foster.

Following Foster’s departure, Skipper took over as interim head coach, with Jerry Neuheisel stepping in as offensive play-caller. Iamaleava responded positively, posting 722 total yards over the next three games with 6 passing touchdowns, 3 rushing touchdowns, and no interceptions, helping UCLA secure wins over Penn State (42-37) and Michigan State (38-13).

However, the Bruins hit a wall against undefeated Indiana on October 25, suffering a 56-6 loss in which Iamaleava threw for just 141 yards, completing 13 of 27 passes, with 2 interceptions and no touchdowns.

1. Iamaleava’s Rollercoaster Season

The young quarterback showed resilience after the Indiana blowout. In the following contest versus Nebraska, he passed for 191 yards with 2 touchdowns and added 85 rushing yards, even in a losing effort. It was shortly after this game that Iamaleava began to experience concussion symptoms, forcing him to miss the Ohio State matchup. Backup quarterback Luke Duncan stepped in admirably against the Buckeyes, completing 16 of 23 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown, proving capable against one of the nation’s toughest defenses. UCLA’s offense has been a mix of highs and lows this season. While Iamaleava has demonstrated potential under Skipper and Neuheisel’s guidance, injuries and inconsistent play have made the Bruins’ season unpredictable. The team currently sits at 3-7 overall, trying to balance player development with competitiveness as they approach the final stretch of their schedule.

2. Preparing for Washington

Washington enters Pasadena with a 7-3 record and 4-3 in Big Ten play, presenting another formidable challenge for UCLA. Whether Iamaleava is cleared to start or Duncan gets the nod again, the Bruins will face a team with playoff aspirations and a strong, balanced roster. The timing of Iamaleava’s potential return will be critical. His presence could provide a spark for an offense that has struggled against top-tier competition, but the coaching staff must weigh the risk of aggravating his concussion. Skipper and his staff will also rely on their game plan and player adjustments to maximize efficiency against Washington’s defensive front. Special teams, ball control, and minimizing turnovers will be key areas of focus, particularly if Iamaleava remains sidelined. Kickoff is scheduled for approximately 10:30 p.m. PT, offering a late-night spotlight on whether the Bruins can stabilize their season and potentially end on a positive note.

3. Season Outlook

UCLA’s campaign has been a mix of flashes of brilliance and harsh lessons against elite teams. Iamaleava’s health, combined with consistent quarterback play, will largely determine how the Bruins finish the season. The team must maintain focus and resilience, learning from both blowout losses and narrow victories. For Skipper, the challenge lies in balancing player development, team morale, and competitiveness as the Bruins navigate the season’s final games. Regardless of who starts at quarterback, the matchup with Washington offers an opportunity for UCLA to showcase growth, test their depth, and build momentum heading into 2026. Nico Iamaleava’s status as day-to-day leaves UCLA’s quarterback situation uncertain, with his potential return pivotal for the Bruins’ upcoming showdown with Washington.