NCAAF · SDST at UCLA
Picks close 15 minutes before game time (ET)Your Picks on San Diego St. vs UCLA
Spread
Moneyline
Total
San Diego State at UCLA: Strong opening wins leave a betting pass
UCLA hosts San Diego State in college football on September 12, 2026, for the Bruins’ home opener at the Rose Bowl. Both teams enter 1-0. UCLA began Bob Chesney’s tenure with a 45-24 victory at California, while San Diego State defeated Portland State 53-20.
The Bruins generated 461 offensive yards and averaged 8.7 yards per rush. Anthony Woods ran for 118 yards and two touchdowns, and Wayne Knight contributed 157 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns. UCLA outscored California 21-0 in the fourth quarter; Ta’Shawn James’s two interceptions in that period led to 14 points.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava briefly left the opener after a scramble. Chesney subsequently said he had worked through the issue and looked good. That update does not establish how he will perform against the Aztecs.
San Diego State allowed Portland State 3.2 yards per rushing attempt. Its defense has just one returning starter, tackle Malachi Finau, and a first-year coordinator in Demetrius Sumler. Sione Hala recorded 10 tackles in the opener, while Mike Lindsay and Isaiah Green each intercepted a pass.
Those results make UCLA’s rushing attack against San Diego State’s defense a matchup worth watching, but one game apiece does not establish a repeatable advantage. On offense, the Aztecs received three rushing touchdowns from Lucky Sutton. Jayden Denegal completed 12 of 17 passes for 137 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
UCLA is -500 on the moneyline and -12.5 (-110) against the spread. San Diego State is +383 on the moneyline and +12.5 (-110). Over 54.5 (-110) and under 54.5 (-110) are the total options.
The odds position UCLA as the favorite, but the opening performances do not establish value at those prices. UCLA’s late interceptions contributed to its winning margin, and San Diego State’s defensive numbers came against a different opponent. Neither result alone supports a spread or total recommendation.
The decision is Pass. There is insufficient support for a wager or a projected score, so no winner selection accompanies this preview.