UCLA's Undefeated Run Faces Skepticism from Analysts

UCLA is currently one of only three teams that have remained unbeaten this season. The Bruins rank seventh in the newest US LBM Coaches Poll, marking their highest placement in over a decade. A 7‑0 start is the best record the program has posted in twenty years. Even with these impressive numbers, some college football analysts are skeptical about UCLA’s chances in the College Football Playoff.

On Saturday night, CBS analyst Bryant McFadden questioned UCLA’s resume, comparing the team to a performer whose lyrics have no substance. While he acknowledged that Coach Bob Chesney has done a solid job in his first season—especially on defense and in the running game—McFadden argued that the Bruins have taken advantage of a chaotic 2026 schedule. He expressed doubt that the squad is built to survive a first‑round playoff battle, saying they lack the necessary depth to compete when the stakes rise.

The defensive unit has been dominant, keeping opponents under twenty points on five occasions and limiting Michigan State to just 156 total yards in a 28‑10 victory. The defense also recorded four sacks, a season high. Offensively, backup quarterback Ty Dieffenbach directed the offense while senior running back Anthony Woods rushed for 245 yards. Notable wins include a victory over Oregon in the absence of star quarterback Dante Moore, a win against a solid Wisconsin team, and a triumph over Michigan State, which has yet to defeat a ranked Big Ten opponent. The final regular‑season test is a November 28 game against No. 25 USC, a squad that has struggled under coach Lincoln Riley.

Head coach Bob Chesney has brushed off the criticism. He told reporters that he isn’t worried about what outsiders say, noting that such opinions neither help nor harm the team if ignored. Chesney urges his players to stay focused on their work, to avoid the noise on social media, and to prepare for whatever lies ahead. He believes the team’s internal effort will determine how far they can go, not the rankings or analyst commentary.