UCLA's 5-0 Start Under Bob Chesney Draws Indiana Comparisons, With Limits

UCLA went 3-9 in 2025. Now the Bruins are 5-0 and ranked 12th after knocking off a double-digit favorite Oregon at Autzen Stadium, and Bob Chesney's rebuild is drawing comparisons to Curt Cignetti's breakthrough at Indiana. Chesney followed Cignetti at James Madison, brought JMU transfers with him and built a run-first identity: 253.2 rushing yards per game, 6.06 yards per carry, 19 rushing touchdowns and the nation's best fourth-quarter scoring margin. The comparison has limits, though. Indiana threw the ball better during its run, and starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava's significant knee injury takes away a key passer and runner.