PASADENA—Chances are you weren’t even aware UCLA played a special Friday night game, well, the Bruins did take the field on September 12 at the Rose Bowl. Taking on the New Mexico Lobos who upset UCLA, 35-10 as the Bruins defense allowed New Mexico nearly 300 yards on the ground, while the offense continues to not find any rhythm or success in this embarrassing defeat.

UCLA is not only (0-3) for the first time since 2019, but the Bruins have also not held a lead this season after falling into another big hole on a night they were 15½-point favorites.

The Bruins’ lone score in the first half came with Iamaleava finding Titus Mokiao-Atimalala for a 12-yard touchdown to cut the 14-0 lead in half to 14-7. This was, remarkably, the Bruins’ only touchdown of the whole night.

The Lobos punished the Bruins in the ground game. New Mexico ended the night with 298 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.

In total, the Lobos had 450 yards of offense. UCLA had 326.

Despite the lopsided outcome, UCLA had momentum on their side to open the second half. With New Mexico (2-1) facing a fourth and one at the Bruins’ five-yard line, Deshaun Buchanan ran for two yards before having the ball stripped by UCLA safety Key Lawrence.

Bruins defensive end Devin Aupiu recovered the fumble to thwart the drive.

UCLA lacks a consistent offensive attack, failing to capitalize on two key turnovers cost them any opportunity of mounting a comeback.

Lobos Running Back Damon Bankston led the charge with 154 yards on 15 carries (10.3 yards per rush). He also had 49 receiving yards and two total touchdowns.

UNM starting Quarterback Jack Layne completed 12-16 (75%) for 152 yards and a touchdown.

UCLA’s Nico Iamaleava finished 22-34 for 217 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of this season thus far has been the underwhelming play of lamaleava.

New Mexico held the Bruins to 3-11 on third down and 0-1 on fourth down.

It would be unfair to place the blame solely at his feet, UCLA is struggling with its numerous penalties. 10 for over 100 yards.

Now the Big 10 portion of our season begins. After a much-needed bye week, the UCLA Bruins take on the Northwestern Wildcats on September 27.

Bruins fans will keep on rooting for the team and staying positive because the year is not yet in vain, it’s true UCLA is desperate for a victory.

Hopefully our Bruins will improve their tackling for instance, as the difficult part of the season is upcoming.