Nebraska vs. UCLA: A Gridiron History

The Nebraska Cornhuskers and the UCLA Bruins have a storied history on the football field, dating back to 1946. These two programs, now both members of the Big Ten Conference, have clashed 14 times, with the series tied at seven wins apiece. Their encounters have produced memorable moments, coaching milestones, and significant impacts on each team's season. This article explores the history of this rivalry, highlighting key games and memorable moments.

Early Encounters and a Locker Room Motivator

The series between Nebraska and UCLA began in 1946. While the teams have a direct history, UCLA's influence on Nebraska extends beyond their head-to-head matchups. A notable example occurred on October 29, 1966, when Nebraska, under coach Bob Devaney, prepared to face Missouri. Earlier that week, then-UCLA head coach Tommy Prothro made disparaging remarks about the Husker football program. Devaney, using this as motivation, posted Prothro's comments in the locker room. The result was a decisive 35-0 victory for Nebraska over Missouri, limiting the Tigers to just 107 yards of total offense.

Memorable Games and Controversial Calls

Over the years, Nebraska and UCLA have been involved in several memorable games. One such game took place on September 10, 1988, in Pasadena, featuring a controversial play. NU safety Mark Blazek intercepted a Troy Aikman pass and ran into the end zone. Despite appearing to have fallen before scoring, officials controversially ruled it a touchdown. Although the call did not determine the game's outcome, as UCLA won 41-28, it remains a point of contention in the series' history.

Another significant game occurred on September 9, 1972, at the LA Coliseum. In that game, UCLA upset #1 Nebraska 20-17, ending the Huskers' 32-game unbeaten streak. The Huskers lost three fumbles in the game, and UCLA's Efren Herrera kicked a 30-yard field goal with just 22 seconds remaining.

Rozier's Run and a Bowl Game Victory

On September 24, 1983, Nebraska defeated UCLA 42-10, a game highlighted by Mike Rozier's remarkable touchdown run. Although officially credited with a two-yard run, Rozier may have run 80 yards to get into the end zone.

Read also: Gridiron Showdown: UCLA-Nebraska

More recently, on December 26, 2015, Nebraska, with a 5-7 record, faced UCLA in the Foster Farms Bowl in Santa Clara, California. Led by first-year head coach Mike Riley, the Huskers secured a 37-29 victory.

A Look at the 2025 Matchup

Looking ahead, Nebraska is set to face UCLA on November 8, 2025, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.

Team Records and Rankings:

Nebraska: 6-3 overall, 3-3 in the Big Ten.
UCLA: 3-5 overall, 3-2 in the Big Ten.

Coaches:

Nebraska: Matt Rhule (Career/NEB Record: 65-59 (10th Year)/18-16 (3rd Year)).
UCLA: Interim Head Coach Tim Skipper (UCLA Record: 3-2).

Statistical Matchup:

Based on statistics, Nebraska holds advantages in several key areas:

Offense: Scoring, Passing, and Total Offense.
Defense: Scoring, Rushing, Passing, and Total Defense.
Special Teams: Turnover Margin, Kick Returns, and Punt Returns.

Points Per Game (PPG):

Nebraska Scored: 33.0
UCLA Scored: 20.4
Nebraska Allowed: 19.8
UCLA Allowed: 31.0

Nebraska's Strengths in 2025

In 2025, Nebraska's defense, known as the Blackshirts, has been a significant strength. The team ranks second nationally in passing yards allowed per game, with 128.3. The Blackshirts held eight of nine opponents to 160 or fewer passing yards. Furthermore, Nebraska has allowed a low number of 20-yard pass plays.

Junior running back Emmett Johnson has also been a standout performer for the Huskers. Johnson has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards for the season, becoming the first Husker to achieve this milestone since 2018.

Game-by-Game Look at Recent Contests

Here's a look at some of the more recent games between Nebraska and UCLA:

December 26, 2015 - Foster Farms Bowl

Nebraska, with a losing record, defeated UCLA 37-29. The Huskers held UCLA scoreless in the third quarter while adding nine points of their own.

September 14, 2013 - Lincoln, NE

UCLA defeated Nebraska 41-21. The Bruins rallied in the third quarter, scoring 28 points to Nebraska's 0.

September 12, 2012 - Pasadena, CA

UCLA won a close game 36-30 after Nebraska gave up a safety in the fourth quarter.

September 17, 1994 - Lincoln, NE

Nebraska routed UCLA 49-21, totaling nearly 500 rushing yards.

Read also: A Look at the Cornhusker Band

September 18, 1993 - Pasadena, CA

Nebraska held on for a narrow 14-13 victory.

September 10, 1988 - Pasadena, CA

UCLA won 41-28, in a game marked by a controversial touchdown call.

September 12, 1987 - Lincoln, NE

Nebraska defeated UCLA 42-33.

September 22, 1984 - Pasadena, CA

Nebraska won 42-3, marking their first win in California.

September 24, 1983 - Lincoln, NE

Nebraska defeated UCLA 42-10.

September 8, 1973 - Lincoln, NE

Nebraska won 40-13, securing Tom Osborne's first win as head coach.

September 9, 1972 - Los Angeles, CA

UCLA upset Nebraska 20-17, ending the Huskers' 32-game winning streak.

October 30, 1948 - Lincoln, NE

UCLA defeated Nebraska 27-15 in a game marred by fan unrest.

November 30, 1946 - Los Angeles, CA

UCLA won the first-ever game between the two schools 18-0.

California Connections

Nebraska has a notable connection to California, with six players on its 2025 roster hailing from the Golden State. These players include sophomore linebacker Jacob Bower (Rancho Santa Margarita), sophomore defensive lineman Sua Lefotu (Bellflower), and true freshman quarterback TJ Lateef (Compton).

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