UCLA will host the University of Utah on Aug. 30 to open both teams’ 2025 football seasons. 

While the Bruins were enjoying their off-day at Newport Beach on Friday, Aug. 8, I had the opportunity to engage in conversation with a few players. Naturally, as a sports writer covering the U, my main questions centered around the upcoming week one matchup. 

While I wasn’t able to track down UCLA’s quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, I grabbed the attention of two starters on the defensive side of the ball to ask some questions. Defensive tackle Gary Smith III and cornerback Rodrick Pleasant graciously took time out of their day to indulge me with a few answers. 

First, I asked how they’re feeling about the upcoming matchup against Utah. Pleasant was quick to respond, “Good, really good.” Smith backed him up with a “Hell yeah!”

I then asked about their off-seasons. With Pleasant being a transfer from Oregon and Smith III being available for the first time in two seasons due to a lower-body injury, both had different routes to get to where they are now. Pleasant acknowledged this. “Everybody got their own little offseason, we’re feeling good now,” he said.

Finally, after sensing their confidence, I asked the question that would get them thinking. “How much are you going to beat Utah by?” After a slight pause, Smith III spoke up, saying, “A good amount. A win’s a win though.” Pleasant elected not to answer, and the confidence seemed to fade. 

Preview and history

Utah is currently favored to win the matchup. At six-point favorites, the game is anticipated to be a nail-biter, with the Utes on top by a touchdown when the clock ticks zero. 

While this may be a cause for concern for UCLA, it’s nearly impossible to predict how both teams will perform under the lights when it matters most. Both programs will be adapting to new conferences, coaching staff changes and styles of play; anything can happen throughout a 60-minute matchup at the Rose Bowl — especially in week one. 

In program history, the U is 9-12 vs. UCLA dating back to 1933. Utah has had the Bruins’ number in recent matchups, however, with wins in six of the last seven games. 

The most recent matchup in 2023 saw Utah come out on top, 14-7. After what many considered to be an ugly defensive matchup, UCLA has moved on from its head coach, Chip Kelly, and moved forward with DeShaun Foster as his replacement.

Foster led the Bruins to a 5-7 record in their first season of Big 10 play. After a decent year one campaign, Foster emphasized the importance of aggression in the trenches. A handful of newcomers on both the offensive and defensive lines have been a bright spot this offseason for Foster’s staff as they gear up for another year of hard-nosed football. 

With an over/under of 50.5, the upcoming game should be far more fast-paced and high scoring than in 2023. An established defense for Utah should give them a leg up on the competition when it comes to game planning and execution. 

Confidence is never something that Utah football lacks under Kyle Whittingham. After having the chance to converse with a couple of UCLA’s players, I think confidence may be lacking for the Bruins in what is shaping up to be an exhilarating competition. 

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