UPDATE: In an urgent Big Ten matchup on November 8, 2025, the UCLA Bruins fell short against the Nebraska Cornhuskers, losing 28-21 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. This defeat marks a critical moment for UCLA, now sitting at 3-6 in the season, raising concerns over their bowl eligibility.
Nebraska’s first-time starting quarterback, TJ Lateef, showcased impressive poise, completing 13 of 15 passes for 205 yards and three touchdowns. The Huskers’ star running back, Emmett Johnson, who entered the game with over 1,000 rushing yards, significantly impacted the game with 129 rushing yards and three total touchdowns. His performance was pivotal, including two touchdowns in the first half that put Nebraska ahead comfortably.
The Bruins managed to tie the game at 7-7 in the second quarter, thanks to a one-yard touchdown run from running back Jalen Berger. However, the Nebraska offense quickly regained control, with Johnson scoring on a 56-yard screen pass, followed by a one-yard touchdown run just before halftime.
As the second half unfolded, Johnson continued to shine, catching a 40-yard touchdown pass to extend Nebraska’s lead to 28-7 early in the third quarter. Despite a late surge from UCLA with touchdowns from Anthony Woods and Anthony Frias II, the Bruins couldn’t close the gap, falling short as time expired.
UCLA’s interim head coach, Tim Skipper, had emphasized controlling time of possession leading into the game. However, missed opportunities and a failure to convert key third-down plays haunted the Bruins, especially in critical moments when they needed to sustain drives.
The loss marks UCLA’s second consecutive defeat, highlighting a struggling season that now hinges on a challenging upcoming game against top-ranked Ohio State. With the season dwindling, fans and players are left to ponder the ramifications of this latest setback.
As the college football landscape shifts rapidly, all eyes will be on UCLA as they fight for bowl eligibility in the coming weeks. The emotional weight of this loss resonates deeply, and fans are eager to see how the team will respond in the face of adversity.
