UCLA Fires DeShaun Foster After 0–3 Start

LOS ANGELES — UCLA has fired head football coach DeShaun Foster just three games into the 2025 season. The move comes after the Bruins stumbled out of the gate with an 0–3 record, suffering double-digit defeats to Utah, UNLV, and New Mexico while being outscored by a combined 108-43.

Athletic Director Martin Jarmond announced the decision Sunday, saying the program needed a new direction as it continues its first full season in the Big Ten. Jarmond confirmed that Tim Skipper, previously serving as special assistant to the head coach, will step in as interim head coach for the remainder of the season while the school begins a national search for a permanent replacement.

Why UCLA Made the Move

Foster, a UCLA alum and former standout running back, was hired in February 2024 and went 5–10 in his brief tenure. Despite optimism around his recruiting energy and ties to the program, the on-field results never materialized. Penalties, defensive breakdowns, and stagnant offensive play drew mounting criticism as the Bruins failed to establish an identity.

The transition to the Big Ten only heightened the pressure. With increased competition and higher expectations, boosters and fans were quick to voice frustration at the lack of progress, making Foster’s firing seem inevitable after the winless start.

Fan and Media Reaction

Reactions across the fan base have been split. Many welcomed the change, pointing to sloppy execution and lack of discipline as signs Foster was not ready to lead a program at this level. Others expressed disappointment that an alum with strong recruiting ties was not given more time to build.

On social media and call-in shows, some fans shifted blame toward the administration, arguing that leadership had failed to provide stability or a clear long-term plan for football’s move into a more competitive conference.

Recruiting Fallout

The timing of the firing has put UCLA’s 2026 recruiting class in jeopardy. Several high-profile prospects have already signaled second thoughts, and more decommitments could follow if the coaching search drags on. Retaining top local recruits is considered essential if UCLA hopes to compete in the Big Ten.

The interim staff will be tasked with stabilizing the locker room and keeping players from entering the transfer portal until a new coach is in place.

Candidates to Watch

The early hot board of potential replacements features a mix of coordinators and current head coaches:

• Tony White, defensive coordinator at Florida State and a UCLA alum, is seen as a top candidate given his defensive pedigree and recruiting ties.

• D’Anton Lynn, defensive coordinator at USC, has earned respect in Southern California circles and would bring immediate credibility on defense, though his Trojan ties could complicate matters.

• Jonathan Smith, now at Michigan State, has Big Ten experience and a track record of building programs.

• P.J. Fleck of Minnesota is another Big Ten coach whose high-energy approach could inject life into the program.

• Jeff Monken of Army has also been mentioned for his culture-building ability and emphasis on discipline.

What’s Next for UCLA

UCLA’s next coach will inherit not just a struggling roster but the daunting task of competing in a loaded Big Ten conference. The Bruins need a leader who can:

1. Recruit top talent in Southern California and nationally.

2. Establish discipline and defensive consistency.

3. Adapt quickly to the rigors of the Big Ten schedule.

4. Rebuild fan confidence and generate excitement around the program.

For now, Skipper will attempt to steady the ship, but all eyes will be on the upcoming coaching search. With pressure rising and the spotlight of the Big Ten only growing brighter, UCLA’s next move could define the program’s trajectory for the next decade.