Nov 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava (9) carries the ball against the Southern California Trojans in the first half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

UCLA's Iamaleava Explains Key Fix He Made This Offseason

Originally posted on UCLA Bruins on SI | By Justin Backer | Last updated Apr 13, 2026 7:00 AM ET

An area of concern that the UCLA Bruins have looked to improve upon since last season is the offensive line, and quarterback Nico Iamaleava is noticing a difference, and has also taken steps to withstand the hits himself.

Last season, not only did UCLA’s offense struggle to put points on the board, but it also struggled to protect Iamaleava in the pocket. Iamaleava was sacked 27 times last season, and the porous pass protection led to his worst statistical season as a starter, throwing for 1,928 yards with 13 touchdowns and seven interceptions, a considerable step down from his last season with Tennessee before transferring to UCLA.

UCLA’s Changes

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However, changes are coming in Iamaleava’s second season with the Bruins. With him returning, he’ll have a reshaped offensive line and a new system in general in light of the Bruins bringing in former James Madison head coach Bob Chesney this offseason. Chesney went 21-6 over his two seasons with the Dukes, and made the College Football Playoff in 2025 after winning the Sun Belt title with a 12-2 record.

In terms of the offensive line, the Bruins have brought in several new additions via the transfer portal to get stronger up front and do a better job of protecting their quarterback in the pocket. Additionally, Iamaleava himself has gotten stronger, allowing him to withstand the big hits that he has suffered under pressure. Whether it be the result of taking so many hits or not, it’s at least a silver lining to the poor pass protection from last season.

Speaking for the first time this spring, Iamaleava talked about that added strength and the impact it could have for next season and beyond.

Iamaleava’s Thoughts

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“I took a couple hits last year, and it took a toll on my body,” Iamaleava said. “I think just recovering over the offseason, and coming in ready to work, getting bigger, was the main thing for me this offseason. Hopefully, when I get to the season, I’ll be able to take those hits a little easier.”

Throughout the rest of the spring, Iamaleava will continue to learn how to play quarterback with the added muscle, and the offensive line will look to protect him better to prevent any injuries. Now able to withstand more hits, Iamaleava shouldn’t be sacked as much, and he could be in line for a bounce-back season after an underwhelming 2025 campaign.

This article first appeared on UCLA Bruins on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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