UCLA star Nico Iamaleava sidelined after dirty hit against Oregon

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The Oregon Ducks cried foul after Dante Moore was on the receiving end of a dirty hit two weeks ago. However, the Big Ten school won’t be gaining any sympathy after the Ducks knocked UCLA Bruins star Nico Iamaleava out in similar fashion in Week 6.

College football‘s seen several hits go viral recently, and Saturday’s Oregon-UCLA is putting a questionable play of its own into the spotlight. Bruins fans are furious with how their starting quarterback left in the first half at Autzen Stadium.

Iamaleava was in noticeable pain before halftime after Oregon defensive lineman Bear Alexander violently ripped at the football and seemingly struck UCLA’s QB1 across the side of his helmet.

The 22-year-old signal caller left the game with a “lower body injury,” according to the CBS broadcast. However, UCLA supporters have to be upset with Alexander’s swipe at Iamaleava’s face while on the ground.

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UCLA furious after Iamaleava exit

Disgusting late hit (punch) from Oregon DT Bear Alexander on UCLA QB Nico Iamaleava.

No flag from the refs; they didn’t see it. https://t.co/RlZ5bUAjDm

— Dean Ralsky (@DeanRalsky) October 10, 2026

The Bruins have every right to be upset with the way their star quarterback was treated on the violent first-half play. Iamaleava’s legs were already twisted up as he fell to the ground before Alexander’s late clothesline across the neck.

The former Tennessee Volunteers signal caller didn’t return for the second half. UCLA has turned to backup Ty Dieffenbach as the Bruins look to remain perfect during the 2026 season.

Iamaleava’s had some rocky performances this season, including prior to exiting Saturday afternoon’s game. The veteran QB threw two first-half interceptions against the Ducks despite his team holding a 10-6 halftime advantage.

Both teams still have significant College Football Playoff aspirations. Oregon surprisingly dropped its opening game of the season against Boise State.

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Meanwhile, UCLA’s looking for a signature win against the Ducks in order to bolster their CFP and Big Ten chances.

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