Bob Chesney Stuns JMU Fans: Accepts UCLA Head Coach Job on Eve of Sun Belt Championship

UCLA Lands Bob Chesney in High-Profile Head-Coaching Move LOS ANGELES — The UCLA Bruins have ended their coaching search by securing Bob Chesney, the architect of James Madison’s rapid rise to national prominence, on a five-year agreement that will be finalized after JMU’s appearance in the Sun Belt Championship Game. The deal positions Chesney, 47, to become the Bruins’ third head coach since 2017 and the program’s first hire from the Group of Five ranks in more than a decade. Record-Setting Success at James Madison Since arriving in Harrisonburg two seasons ago, Chesney compiled a 20-5 record, including an 11-1 mark this fall that propelled the Dukes into the College Football Playoff conversation and earned him Sun Belt Coach of the Year honors. His offenses averaged 36.4 points per game while his aggressive 4-2-5 defense ranked top-15 nationally against the run. Why UCLA Chose Chesney Athletic director Martin Jarmond cited the coach’s history of fast turnarounds—previously at Holy Cross and Assumption—as evidence that Chesney can energize a Bruins program coming off back-to-back 6-6 seasons. UCLA also valued his reputation as a “relentless recruiter” in the Mid-Atlantic, where the Big Ten’s eastward expansion has intensified battles for talent. Early Recruiting Ripple Effect Within 48 hours of the news breaking, Chesney landed three commitments, including four-star defensive back Jayden McKnight from Long Beach Poly, signaling immediate momentum on the West Coast recruiting trail. Sources inside the program expect the new staff to target transfer-portal quarterbacks to fit Chesney’s up-tempo spread attack. Balancing Two Sidelines Chesney confirmed he will coach the Dukes in Saturday’s Sun Belt title game before transitioning fully to Westwood, mirroring Curt Cignetti’s 2023 move from JMU to Indiana. UCLA officials say introductory press events will be scheduled early next week, pending final contract signatures. What’s Next for the Bruins • As UCLA adjusts to Big Ten travel and NIL dynamics, Chesney’s emphasis on player development and culture fit is expected to resonate with recruits and boosters alike. • Staff hires are already underway, with defensive coordinator James Adams, Chesney’s long-time lieutenant, rumored to be joining him in Los Angeles. • Spring practice will give fans their first look at a roster projected to return 15 starters, including All-Big Ten linebacker Laiatu Latu. Bottom Line By betting on Bob Chesney, UCLA is banking on a proven program builder whose meteoric success at James Madison suggests he can reignite Bruins football in the nation’s most competitive conference.