PASADENA, Calif. — In a memorable night at the Rose Bowl, Nico Iamaleava shined as a true leader, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for three more, guiding UCLA to its first win of the season with a stunning 42–37 upset over No. 7 Penn State.

The Bruins’ victory wasn’t just another win — it was a historic milestone. UCLA became the first 0–4 team to defeat a Top 10 opponent since 1985, when UTEP stunned BYU.

The game began in explosive fashion, with UCLA jumping out to a 27–7 lead in the first half, capitalizing on Penn State’s defensive lapses and executing a bold, efficient offensive game plan. Quarterback Iamaleava displayed poise and precision, connecting on key passes and exploiting gaps in the Nittany Lions’ coverage.

For Penn State (3–2), which came into Pasadena looking to bounce back after a home loss to Oregon, the night turned into another disappointment. The Nittany Lions allowed over 400 total yards to a team that had not led a single game all season, exposing major defensive weaknesses.

Interim head coach Tim Skipper, who took over after DeShaun Foster was fired on September 14, now faces growing scrutiny as the team’s performance continues to slide. Despite a late rally attempt in the second half, Penn State’s offensive inconsistencies and third-down struggles proved costly.

The Rose Bowl crowd erupted as UCLA sealed the victory, celebrating what felt like a long-overdue breakthrough. For the Bruins, this win signifies more than just ending a losing streak — it marks a rebirth of confidence and perhaps the beginning of a new era, powered by young talents like Iamaleava.