Ethan Garbers delivered a stellar performance with two touchdown passes, while linebacker Kain Medrano returned an interception for a touchdown to kick off the second half, leading UCLA to a 27-20 victory over Nebraska on Saturday.

The Bruins, now standing at 3-5 and 2-4 in the Big Ten, celebrated their second consecutive win under first-year head coach DeShaun Foster after a rocky 1-5 start. In contrast, the Cornhuskers slipped to 5-4 overall and 2-4 in the conference, marking their third consecutive loss. Freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola suffered a significant injury during a crucial moment late in the game, compounding Nebraska’s troubles.

UCLA established a commanding 20-point lead in the third quarter but faced tense moments as Nebraska mounted a late comeback effort. Backup quarterback Heinrich Haarberg managed to convert a pivotal fourth-and-11, bringing the Huskers deep into UCLA territory in their final drive. However, the Bruins secured their victory when Kaylin Moore intercepted a pass that deflected off Jacory Barney Jr. at the 13-yard line, allowing UCLA to run out the clock.

Garbers had an impressive outing, completing 17 of 25 passes for 219 yards, which included a 57-yard run that helped set up a field goal.

The Bruins extended their 13-7 halftime lead with some quick scores early in the second half. Medrano picked off Raiola’s pass on the very first play, returning it 38 yards for a touchdown. He intercepted an over-the-middle throw intended for Jahmal Banks, evading a hit from Raiola along the sideline to reach the end zone. Later, Garbers connected with Kwazi Gilmer on a 48-yard touchdown pass, pushing the Bruins’ lead to 27-7 midway through the third quarter.

The Cornhuskers quickly responded, cutting the deficit down to 13 points as they drove to the UCLA 5 on their next possession, but they were thwarted on fourth down. The Huskers continued to press, and after a quick three-and-out from UCLA, Raiola managed to advance the team to the UCLA 2-yard line when he suffered a tough hit and had to exit the game. Despite attempting to return a few plays later, he was visibly injured and left the field gingerly.

After Raiola’s departure, Haarberg led the offense and Dante Dowdell powered through for a 1-yard touchdown. However, kicker John Hohl missed the extra point, leaving Nebraska trailing 27-20 with just under four minutes remaining.

Raiola finished the game with 14 completions on 27 attempts for 177 yards and a touchdown.

UCLA is showing signs of improvement after a challenging beginning to their season, despite moments of inconsistent play. The Bruins’ recent performance includes their two highest scoring outputs back-to-back, following a close victory against Rutgers in their previous matchup.

On the other hand, Raiola’s injury will be a major concern for Nebraska as they head into their next game, which is not scheduled for another two weeks.

Looking ahead, UCLA will host Iowa next Saturday, while Nebraska will travel to Southern California on November 16.