UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava has been cleared to return to the field for the upcoming game against Washington, having missed the previous match against Ohio State due to a concussion. Iamaleava was released from concussion protocol on Monday, marking a significant boost for the Bruins as they head into this crucial matchup at the Rose Bowl.
Iamaleava’s absence was felt last week, as UCLA adopted a conservative offensive strategy under backup quarterback Luke Duncan. The return of Iamaleava, who has proven to be the team’s most valuable player, should reinvigorate the Bruins’ offense. This season, he has showcased impressive performances, completing 63.7% of his passes for 1,659 yards, with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Additionally, he has emerged as the team’s leading rusher, accumulating 474 yards and four rushing touchdowns.
UCLA’s offensive line will also be bolstered with the return of guard Garrett DiGiorgio and tackle Reuben Unije, who were sidelined due to injuries. DiGiorgio missed the Ohio State game due to back spasms, while Unije left the game with a lower-body injury. Their return is expected to provide added protection for Iamaleava and enhance the overall performance of the Bruins’ offense.
Iamaleava’s playing style, characterized by his willingness to take risks and evade defenders rather than opting for safer plays like sliding or running out of bounds, has at times led to his injury. He sustained multiple hard hits during the game against Nebraska earlier this month, culminating in concussion symptoms that forced him to sit out against the Buckeyes.
In Iamaleava’s absence, Duncan stepped up commendably, completing 16 of 23 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown without any interceptions. His growing comfort in the offense suggests that he will play an important role moving forward, even as Iamaleava returns to take back the starting position.
As the Bruins, currently sitting at 3-7 overall and 3-4 in the Big Ten, prepare to face the Huskies, who boast a record of 7-3 and 4-3 in conference play, Iamaleava’s comeback could be pivotal in helping UCLA break a three-game losing streak and regain momentum in the season.