One projection has Bob Chesney's first season in UCLA going poorly

In the realm of college football, one projection for Bob Chesney's inaugural season as UCLA's head coach has painted a rather grim picture. Last year's DeShaun Foster era was far from perfect, prompting concerns about the same issues potentially resurfacing in 2026 with the arrival of a new coach. While many projections forecast improved results for the Bruins, one model predicts a third consecutive losing season under Chesney's leadership.

According to College Football Zone, UCLA could very well compile a 4-8 record in their first season under Chesney. This projection, which represents an improvement from the previous year's performance, would include victories against San Diego State, Purdue, Michigan State, and Nevada. However, the Bruins' schedule for 2026 does not appear to be particularly challenging, with losses anticipated against heavyweights like Cal, Maryland, Oregon, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan, and USC.

Despite the difficulties ahead, interim head coach Tim Skipper led UCLA to three consecutive wins earlier in the season, against Penn State, Michigan State, and Maryland, before a five-game losing streak. Nevertheless, UCLA's 2027 recruiting class should bolster the program's depth, and the arrival of over 40 new transfers this offseason aims to kick-start a turnaround in 2026. However, a 4-8 season would undoubtedly be a significant setback for the UCLA football program.