Eric Boggs 
UCLA topped Iowa Friday night by a field goal.
Iowa’s 2024 season road woes continued in a dramatic 20-17 loss to UCLA on Friday night at the Rose Bowl. The defeat marked the Hawkeyes’ third consecutive road loss, dropping them to 1-3 away from Kinnick Stadium this year. Following a strong start to the season, Iowa has been plagued by inconsistency, an issue that was once again apparent in this matchup.
Iowa initially took a 10-0 lead thanks to turnovers by UCLA quarterback Ethan Garbers, who threw two interceptions in the first quarter. The Hawkeyes capitalized on UCLA’s errors with a Kaleb Johnson touchdown and a Drew Stevens field goal. However, momentum shifted quickly, as UCLA outscored Iowa 17-0 in the second quarter. Garbers recovered from his rough start, connecting for two touchdown passes and setting up a field goal, which gave the Bruins a 17-10 halftime lead.
The Hawkeyes attempted a comeback in the third quarter, tying the game at 17 with a touchdown drive led by backup quarterback Jackson Stratton, who was pressed into action after injuries sidelined Iowa’s top three quarterbacks. Iowa’s defense, however, was unable to contain UCLA’s ground game. The Bruins, who entered the game with the Big Ten’s worst rushing offense, unexpectedly dominated Iowa’s defense, racking up 211 rushing yards.
With under five minutes left, UCLA kicker Mateen Bhaghani secured the game with a 27-yard field goal. Iowa had a chance to answer but couldn’t convert on third down, ultimately punting the ball back to UCLA, who ran out the clock to seal the victory.
UCLA’s balanced offensive attack outgained Iowa 415-265, as Garbers threw for 204 yards despite three turnovers, and running back T.J. Harden rushed for 125 yards on 20 carries. Meanwhile, Iowa’s star running back, Kaleb Johnson, was held to 49 yards on 18 attempts, well below his season average.
With the loss, Iowa drops to 6-4 overall and 4-3 in the Big Ten. The Hawkeyes, who had high hopes for a Big Ten title, are now left fighting to salvage what remains of their season. Iowa has a bye next week before closing out the regular season with a road game at Maryland and a home game against Nebraska on Black Friday.
For UCLA, the win marks their third straight conference victory and puts them one step closer to bowl eligibility. Coach DeShaun Foster credited his team’s resilience, emphasizing the importance of their strong run game and defensive performance.
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