UCLA initiates ongoing restructuring, dismisses Defensive Coordinator Ikaika Malloe from his position
UCLA Bruins Part Ways with Defensive Coordinator Ikaika Malloe Amidst Winless Season
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has made a change to their coaching staff, as interim head coach Tim Skipper announced the departure of defensive coordinator Ikaika Malloe on Wednesday. This decision comes as the Bruins are yet to secure a win this season, with a record of 0-3.
The team's defensive struggles have been evident, as they rank tied for 121st in points allowed, conceding an average of 36.0 points per game. UCLA has also been outscored by their opponents 108-43 in their three losses.
One of the most concerning aspects of UCLA's defensive performance has been their inability to prevent opponents from scoring first. In each of their three games this season, the opposition has taken an early lead, with scores of 20, 23, and 14 points in the first quarter.
Malloe, who is 51 years old, was promoted to the position after D'Anton Lynn left for Southern California following the 2023 season. However, the results have not been favourable, leading to his departure.
In a move to address these issues, Tim Skipper will take over as the new defensive coordinator on an interim basis. This change was confirmed by Skipper himself in September 2025.
UCLA does not have a game this week but will start their Big Ten schedule on September 27 against Northwestern (1-2). Northwestern, the opponent for UCLA's first Big Ten game, has also had a mixed start to their season.
The Bruins' struggles extend to their rushing defense, as they rank 132nd out of 134 FBS teams, allowing 244.0 yards per game. This statistic underscores the need for improvement in UCLA's defense ahead of their Big Ten opener.
The decision to part ways with Malloe was made three days after UCLA parted ways with head coach Deshaun Foster, who was in charge of the program for two years. Foster's departure marked a significant shift for the Bruins, and the team will be hoping that the change at defensive coordinator will help turn their season around.
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