UCLA’s 9-0 start gives 4 reasons it’s destined to enter the CFP undefeated
An unbeaten start draws attention
UCLA has opened the 2026 season with nine wins, making it one of the Big Ten’s most notable teams. The Bruins are in their first season under Bob Chesney and hold the No. 4 spot in the latest AP poll.
Their victories include games against Oregon, Wisconsin and Minnesota. UCLA currently leads the Big Ten standings and is building a case for a place in the College Football Playoff.
Defense sets a strong tone
Through nine games, UCLA has allowed 264.7 total yards per contest. Opponents have averaged 87.7 rushing yards per game against the Bruins’ defense. UCLA has also forced an average of 3.0 turnovers per game, while its offense has averaged 1.4 giveaways. The article notes that turnovers can involve luck, but says the Bruins’ success in that area is notable.
The defense has held Oregon to 15 points, Wisconsin to seven, Maryland to three and Michigan State to 10. Those results suggest UCLA can control games by limiting opposing offenses.
Different paths to wins
The Bruins have not played perfectly in every game, but they have found more than one way to win. Their defense has helped in lower-scoring contests, while the offense has shown it can keep pace in a shootout.
UCLA beat Purdue 52-38 after Purdue made an early push. Against Minnesota, the Bruins needed a late scoring surge and finished with a 34-20 road victory.
Three games remain
UCLA has three regular-season games left, including a home matchup with Illinois and a road trip to Michigan on Saturday, Nov. 21. The Illinois game is scheduled for Friday; the article says the late start and cross-country travel could favor the Bruins, while noting that their home crowd has not been especially strong this season.
Michigan looked like a difficult opponent in the preseason, but the article says the Wolverines may need to reconsider their coaching situation. It does not describe the third remaining opponent in the available text, so the full closing schedule is unclear.
Key points
- UCLA is 9-0 and ranked No. 4 in the latest AP poll.
- The Bruins lead the Big Ten standings after wins over Oregon, Wisconsin and Minnesota.
- Opponents have averaged 264.7 total yards and 87.7 rushing yards per game against UCLA.
- Three regular-season games remain, including matchups with Illinois and Michigan.