DraftKings · as of July 8, 2026
Nebraska defeated UCLA 28–21 in a one-score game. Nebraska covered by 8.5; Game went Over by 3.5. The market closed at UCLA -1.5 and the Blue Chip model made it Nebraska -5.8 - a gap of 7.3 points toward Nebraska, of which 5.7 points were beyond the model's measured factors. That was an information gap - the market pricing something the model does not carry - rather than a measured edge.
UCLA's defense allowed Nebraska's Emmett Johnson to rush for 129 yards and a touchdown, plus 103 receiving yards and two more scores. Interim coach Tim Skipper admitted the game plan was to stop Johnson, but they failed, indicating a critical weakness against versatile running backs.
UCLA fell behind 27-7 in the first half, with their only first-half score coming on a direct snap run. A missed field goal just before halftime further hindered their comeback, highlighting issues with early-game execution and special teams.
Despite being hit repeatedly, quarterback Nico Iamaleava completed 17 of 25 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns, and led the team in rushing with 86 yards. His toughness kept UCLA in the game, but the offense needed more support from the run game and defense.
UCLA scored two touchdowns in the second half, including a 45-yard pass and a 9-yard score with under five minutes left, to cut the lead to 28-21. However, they couldn't complete the comeback, showing fight but an inability to overcome the early deficit.
After a bye week, UCLA faces No. 1 Ohio State on the road, followed by No. 24 Washington and No. 20 USC. With a 3-6 record, they need to drastically improve on both sides of the ball to compete against these ranked opponents.
At kickoff, conditions at Rose Bowl were Clear, 67°F with winds of 3 mph. Weather is not expected to be a meaningful factor in this game. Historical weather data for this game is preserved in the panel alongside. Weather data is sourced from WeatherAPI.com.
Clear
67°F
| Measure | NebraskaAway | UCLAHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 1,262 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | Home game | Bye week |
| Season total | 4,385 miles | 11,281 miles |
| Body clock | 20:00 | 18:00 |
| Rest | 8 days | 15 days |
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