UCLA Football: Bruins Remove Interim Title From Ikaika Malloe, Making Him DC

UCLA makes its decision on their new defensive leader!

Your UCLA Bruins have formally named their new defensive coordinator. 

According to UCLA Communications, the Blue and Gold have taken the interim title off Ikaika Malloe. Malloe was the defensive play-caller during the team's LA Bowl win over Boise State.

𝗜𝗸𝗮𝗶𝗸𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝗲 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗨𝗖𝗟𝗔 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹! #GoBruins

𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗘: https://t.co/UJfA3PJ2HD pic.twitter.com/PpNvYNO2xu

— UCLA Football (@UCLAFootball) January 3, 2024

Malloe helped make the Bruins' defense from last season so dominant. He guided the outside linebackers in 2021 but saw his responsibilities grow to also include defensive backs. 

He brings a ton of experience to the table, and he understands how this defense wants to play. The continuity that the Bruins will have from this hire likely played a part in the decision, but it's a good one.

Prior to joining the Bruins, Malloe had two seasons as the co-defensive coordinator for the University of Washington. UCLA head coach Chip Kelly praised Malloe and is excited for the opportunity in front of him.

"Ikaika has a track record of developing NFL talent on the field and outstanding young men off it," said Kelly. "I am excited to watch this next step for him and our team."

Malloe will be tasked with helping this UCLA team get ready for the Big Ten next season. It will be a little different from what they've dealt with in the past, so focusing on physicality and tackling will be key.

This is an exciting time for the Bruins, and we want to wish Malloe good luck in his new role!