ANALYST: Big 12 is WAY Better Than Big 10, Utah BLOWING OUT UCLA Is Easy, Nico Iamaleava Is TERRIBLE
ANALYST: Big 12 is WAY Better Than Big 10, Utah BLOWING OUT UCLA Is Easy, Nico Iamaleava Is TERRIBLE  
Podcast: Locked On Big 12 | Daily College Football & Basketball Podcast
Published On: Wed Aug 27 2025
Description: Utah has a strong chance to blow out UCLA in their season opener due to a few key factors. First, the Utes have a historically strong defensive identity under head coach Kyle Whittingham, and that's not expected to change. While they lost some key players from last season, they still have a formidable defensive front and linebacking corps that can dominate the line of scrimmage. This will be a major problem for a UCLA offense that has been historically weak on the ground, ranking near the bottom of the FBS in rushing yards per game last season. If Utah's defense can stop the run, it will force UCLA's new quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, to beat them with his arm, which is a major risk for a first-time starter. 🏈Second, Utah's offense is expected to take a major leap forward under new offensive coordinator Jason Beck and quarterback Devon Dampier. Both were highly successful at New Mexico, where they had one of the nation's most explosive offenses. This new system, combined with a talented and experienced offensive line, gives Utah a huge advantage. They can now attack a UCLA defense that is replacing key pieces. While UCLA has a talented new quarterback in Nico Iamaleava, he is still unproven, and will be playing against a relentless Utah defense that thrives on creating pressure. The Utes' strong run game and improved passing attack should be more than enough to overwhelm the Bruins. Utah is favored in the game, and some advanced metrics models predict a comfortable win.Listener SurveyWe’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go tohttps://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!UpsideSimply download the free Upside app in the App Store or Google Play and use the promo code FOOTBALL to get an extra 25 cents back per gallon on your first fill up. Start earning cash at the pump, today!  Click Here: https://getupside.onelink.me/zlLr?af_xp=custom&pid=barrington&c=barrington_lockedon25&deep_link_value=promo&deep_link_sub1=lockedon25&af_dp=upsideapp%3A%2F%2FRugiet150,000 men have made the switch →https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGEUse code LOCKEDONNFL to get 15% off your order!SupplyHouseJoin the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit https://www.supplyhouse.com/apply-for-trademasterto sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.