The UCLA Bruins are heading into the 2026 season with tempered expectations, according to USA TODAY's latest Big Ten Conference rankings. Following spring games across the league, the publication placed UCLA at No. 11 out of 18 teams—a modest slot that reflects cautious optimism for a program in transition.

After a disappointing 3-9 campaign last year, the Bruins are looking to rebound under second-year head coach Bob Chesney. While Chesney has done an impressive job building for the future—landing a 2027 recruiting class full of promise—the immediate question is how competitive UCLA can be this fall. The good news? It would be hard to be worse than last season.

Chesney has been active in the transfer portal, bringing in several game-ready players to bolster the roster. Meanwhile, quarterback Nico Iamaleava enters his second year as a starter with a full offseason under new offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy. That continuity could be key for a team searching for an identity.

USA TODAY's Paul Myerburg ranked UCLA just behind No. 10 Illinois and ahead of No. 12 Nebraska. "UCLA will be better, sure, but don't expect an Indiana-like leap," Myerburg wrote, referencing the Hoosiers' dramatic turnaround. He added, "The Bruins are experienced and have a strong starter under center in Nico Iamaleava."

The ranking places UCLA ahead of the conference's rebuilding teams but not among the true contenders. However, with an improved roster, a fresh coaching staff, and a slightly easier conference schedule in 2026, the Bruins could aim higher than No. 11 as the Chesney era takes shape in Westwood. For context, last season's No. 11 team in the Big Ten—Northwestern—finished conference play at 4-5, a benchmark UCLA will hope to surpass.

Beyond the players, Chesney has brought in two exciting coordinators who are already changing expectations on both sides of the ball. If the pieces fall into place, the Bruins might just surprise some folks this fall.