UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava avoids serious injury in win over Cal
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 6:58 PM
Last updated Sep 6, 2026

UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava avoided a significant injury during the team's 45-24 victory against Cal on Saturday. Iamaleava exited the game in the fourth quarter after suffering a calf injury during a run play. The quarterback was replaced briefly by Madden Iamaleava before returning to the field to finish the contest by taking a knee. Head coach Bob Chesney confirmed postgame that Iamaleava had been cleated, causing persistent cramping. Before his departure, the starter recorded 184 passing yards with one interception and rushed for 29 yards, including one touchdown. The Bruins relied heavily on a strong ground game throughout the afternoon, totaling 277 rushing yards and scoring six times on the ground. UCLA remains dependent on Iamaleava as they prepare for the remainder of their Big Ten Conference schedule.
- •Nico Iamaleava finished the game with 184 passing yards and one rushing touchdown.
- •UCLA defeated Cal 45-24 on Saturday to move to 1-0.
- •The injury was diagnosed as a calf cramp caused by getting cleated.
- •Madden Iamaleava entered the game as a temporary replacement in the fourth quarter.
- •The Bruins totaled 277 yards on the ground during the season opener.
- 6:58 PMYahoo Sports — UCLA and Nico Iamaleava avoid a serious injury for the quarterback
"The UCLA Bruins starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava avoided a serious injury in Week 1, as he left the game after getting cleated.
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