UCLA Claims Victory Over New Mexico in NCAAF Showdown

The UCLA Bruins secured their first win of the season by defeating the New Mexico Lobos 14-7 in a tightly contested NCAAF matchup at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on September 12, 2025. This marked a crucial turnaround for the Bruins, who entered the game with a 0-2 record and much to prove, while the Lobos sought to build momentum after an even 1-1 start. The event was part of the Annual Los Bruins Night, celebrating Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium. UCLA’s performance was driven by quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who completed 13 of 21 passes for 157 yards and one touchdown. Running back Anthony Woods contributed 56 rushing yards on eight carries, while wide receiver Makai Matthews led all receivers with 67 yards on three receptions. The Bruins’ defense was a deciding factor, forcing two turnovers and limiting New Mexico to just 254 total yards. Linebacker Ikenna Chisom stood out with eight tackles and five solo stops, anchoring a unit that stifled the Lobos’ offensive advances. UCLA’s defense also excelled in key moments, holding New Mexico to just two successful third-down conversions out of seven attempts. For a detailed breakdown of stats and highlights, visit the ESPN game summary. On the other side, New Mexico quarterback Jack Layne went 9-for-12 for 93 yards and a touchdown, but the Lobos’ offense struggled to sustain drives. Running back Dorian Bankston managed 62 rushing yards on seven carries, and tight end Donovan Thomas added 30 receiving yards. Despite a balanced attack, the Lobos were hampered by penalties—totaling 111 yards on 12 infractions—and two costly turnovers. They finished with 14 first downs and held a slight edge in time of possession (23:17 to UCLA’s 18:09), but could not capitalize on their opportunities. The Bruins came into the game as 15.5-point favorites, according to the latest odds from the CBS Sports betting preview. Their victory not only snapped a two-game losing streak but also improved their record to 1-2, while the Lobos fell to 1-2. Historically, this matchup has been rare—the last meeting between these programs was in 2002, when UCLA won 27-13. With a defense that forced turnovers and improved execution from Iamaleava, UCLA showed signs of the form that has made them favorites in recent years (the Bruins are 14-6 in their last 20 games as favorites). New Mexico, meanwhile, continued its struggles on Friday nights, dropping to 1-17 in its last 18 such contests. Looking ahead, both teams will need to address offensive consistency and discipline as they move deeper into their respective conference schedules.