UCLA built off its massive upset win over Penn State a week ago by earning its second win of the season Saturday, annihilating Michigan State 38-13 in East Lansing.
It was not a massive day for former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava but the signal caller turned in a solid performance in the victory. Iamaleava completed 16-of-24 pass attempts for 180 yards three touchdowns and zero interceptions.
The Bruins gashed Michigan State for 238 yards on the ground but Iamaleava was not a big part of the rushing attack, totaling three yards on six carries thanks to the Spartans two sacks. It was a bit ironic that UCLA gashed Michigan State on the ground without Iamaleava because the transfer quarterback has been fantastic on the ground this season including in the upset win over Penn State.
UCLA used a big second quarter to jump out to a 24-7 halftime lead before coasting in the second half. Michigan State struggled to move the football, totaling just 253 total yards of offense and converting none of its four fourth down attempts.
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The Bruins improved to 2-4 (2-0 Big 10) on the season with the win over Michigan State. After losing its first four games and firing both their head coach and offensive coordinator, UCLA has a winning streak going and is unbeaten in conference play.
Through six games this season, Iamaleava has completed 114-of-172 passes for 1,134 yards, nine touchdowns and three interceptions. He’s also rushed for a team-best 335 yards and four touchdowns.
Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar, who transferred from UCLA to Tennessee after Iamaleava landed in Westwood, has completed 118-of-182 passes for 1,680 yards, 14 touchdowns and five interceptions through six games this season. He’s also been a threat with his legs, rushing for 117 yards and two touchdowns.
UCLA is back in action next Saturday when they host Maryland at the Rose Bowl. Tennessee is 5-1 (2-1 SEC) entering the Third Saturday in October and a challenging road matchup at Alabama.
