As the UCLA Bruins prepare for the 2024 football season, they will encounter a mix of seasoned veterans and less experienced quarterbacks. Here’s a closer look at some of the less experienced QBs UCLA will face this season.
The Five Least Experienced Quarterbacks UCLA Bruins Will Face In 2024
1. Brayden Schager, Hawaii
Brayden Schager has shown potential but has struggled with consistency. Hawaii’s offense has had difficulty finding rhythm, and Schager’s performance has been up and down. When UCLA kicks off its season against Hawaii on August 31, the Bruins’ defense will aim to exploit Schager’s inexperience and inconsistency to set the tone for their season.
2. Athan Kaliakmanis, Rutgers
Athan Kaliakmanis, who transferred to Rutgers from Minnesota, is still adapting to his new team. While he showed promise at Minnesota, his transition to Rutgers will be crucial. Facing UCLA on October 19, Kaliakmanis will need to prove his ability to lead the Scarlet Knights’ offense effectively under pressure.
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3. Cade McNamara, Iowa
Cade McNamara, returning from a season-ending ACL injury, will be looking to make a strong comeback. Despite his previous experience at Michigan, his performance at Iowa has been mixed, with a 51.1% completion rate and several turnovers before his injury. UCLA will face McNamara on November 8, and the Bruins’ defense will be eager to test his recovery and consistency.
4. Max Brosmer, Minnesota
Max Brosmer, a transfer from New Hampshire, will be stepping into a significant role at Minnesota. Known for his productivity at the FCS level, Brosmer’s adaptation to FBS competition will be key. When UCLA faces Minnesota on October 12, the Bruins will look to challenge Brosmer’s ability to handle the faster pace and tougher defenses of the Big Ten.
5. Kurtis Rourke, Indiana
Kurtis Rourke, expected to lead Indiana’s offense, has the task of proving his worth in the Big Ten. His experience at Ohio has shown promise, but the step up to a more competitive conference will test his skills. UCLA will play Indiana on September 14, providing an early opportunity to pressure Rourke and capitalize on any inexperience.
These quarterbacks, while talented, face challenges related to inexperience and adapting to new environments or recovering from injuries. UCLA’s defense will aim to leverage these factors to gain an advantage in these matchups.