Bob Chesney promises UCLA will win 'at the highest level' in first comments as Bruins coach

New UCLA head coach Bob Chesney promised the Bruins will win at “the highest level” under his watch. UCLA has certainly had its moments, but it’s been a drag lately under coaches Chip Kelly, who couldn’t quite breakthrough to the top tier, and DeShaun Foster, which simply didn’t work.

Chesney just captured a Sun Belt title with James Madison Friday night to give the Dukes a chance at the College Football Playoff. He’ll finish out the year before getting to work with UCLA, but Chesney is a winner.

Being a winner at each of his college football stops, UCLA fans must be excited. He didn’t hold back when it came to what he expects out in Los Angeles.

“I’d like to thank Martin Jarmond, Chancellor Julio Frenk and the search committee for this incredible opportunity to lead the UCLA Football program,” Chesney said. “Through our many conversations, it became abundantly clear to me that UCLA is willing to do what it takes to build a championship-level program. UCLA is a very special place. From its stellar academics, impactful alumni, geographic location and deep recruiting base, this is a program that can and WILL win at the highest level. UCLA has every ingredient necessary, but what has truly stood out to me is the passion of UCLA’s administration, alumni and fanbase.

“Their pride, their energy and their willingness to support and invest in this program’s rise create powerful momentum for what’s ahead. Leadership is ready. The alumni are ready. The fanbase is ready. And I am ready. I look forward to working together as we bring this program to the standard of excellence it deserves.”

As it stands right now, Chesney boasts a 132-51 record since 2010. He’s coached at Salve Regina, Assumption, Holy Cross and James Madison. While at Holy Cross, Chesney won five conference titles in six seasons, making it to the FCS Playoffs four times and made the quarterfinals in 2022.

He found instant success at JMU, going 9-4 last year and winning the Boca Raton Bowl. Should Duke beat Virginia in Saturday’s ACC Championship Game, it opens the door for Chesney and crew to be a second Group of Five team in the College Football Playoff.