Weekend CFB Predictions - Week 1
- The same column takes Cal +1.5 and outright against UCLA, expecting an entertaining game between first-year coaches with both teams returning starting quarterbacks.
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Football Opens 2026 Season at California Saturday Night
- Bob Chesney begins his UCLA tenure at California after bringing 26 staffers and 10 players from a James Madison program that went 21-6 over the past two seasons.
- UCLA leads the Big Ten with 45 incoming transfers, making immediate roster integration a central variable in the season opener.
- James Madison transfer Wayne Knight joins the backfield after producing 2,039 all-purpose yards in 2025, including 1,373 rushing yards and substantial receiving and return-game production.
- Quarterback Nico Iamaleava returns after leading UCLA with 505 rushing yards in 2025, while seven interceptions against 13 passing touchdowns leave passing efficiency as an improvement area.
- Sun Belt freshman of the year Sahir West strengthens the defensive front after recording 14 tackles for loss and seven sacks for James Madison last season.
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