Saturday Showdown: UCLA Bruins vs. Indiana Hoosiers, Preview

This Saturday’s Big Ten matchup in Bloomington features two programs trending in opposite directions. No. 2 Indiana has stormed to a 7-0 start under Curt Cignetti, while UCLA — rejuvenated by transfer quarterback Nico Iamaleava — has shown new life after a slow beginning to the season.

Indiana’s balance on both sides of the ball has made them a legitimate College Football Playoff contender, and Memorial Stadium will be rocking as the Hoosiers look to stay unbeaten.

The line has Indiana as a heavy favorite (around –25.5) with the total hovering near 54.5. Given those numbers, the best value lies in player props, not the spread — here are four worth targeting.

Prop Overview

Matchup: UCLA Bruins vs Indiana Hoosiers Location: Memorial Stadium (Bloomington, IN) Kickoff: Saturday, 12:00 PM ET Spread (est’d): Indiana –25.5 Total (est’d): 54.5

🏈 1) Fernando Mendoza – Over 218.5 Passing Yards

Mendoza has been the model of efficiency for Indiana. The California transfer has spread the ball around to Omar Cooper Jr. and Elijah Sarratt, pushing the Hoosiers’ offense into elite territory. UCLA’s secondary has improved but still gives up chunk plays when safeties get caught peeking into the backfield.

In a game where Indiana should control the tempo but still take deep shots, Mendoza surpassing 220 yards is a strong play.

Tip: Bet Mendoza Over 218.5 PASSING Yds

DraftKings

4.6/5

Tip: Mendoza over 218.5 passing Yds

• Control Tempo
• Creates plays
• Heisman Favorite

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🔥 2) Nico Iamaleava – Over 55.5 Rushing Yards

UCLA’s young quarterback has been the engine of their recent turnaround, doing plenty of damage with his legs. Against Indiana’s aggressive front seven, designed QB runs and scrambles could be UCLA’s best offensive weapon.

If the Hoosiers’ edge rushers overpursue, Iamaleava could break several double-digit runs. Anything near 60 yards feels very attainable.

Tip: Bet Iamaleava over 55.5 Made Rushing yards

BetMGM

4.9/5

Tip: Nico over 55.5 Rushing yards

• Limited Passing
• Run for your life
• Hoosiers will push pace

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🧱 3) Omar Cooper Jr. – Over 67.5 Receiving Yards

Cooper has been Mendoza’s top target throughout the 2025 campaign, leading Indiana in receptions and yards. His ability to separate on intermediate routes makes him a matchup problem for UCLA’s corners, who tend to give up space to avoid being beaten deep.

Expect Cooper to see 7–9 targets, enough volume to clear this line comfortably.

Tip: Bet Cooper over 67.5 yards receiving

FanDuel

4.6/5

Tip: Bet Cooper over 67.5 yards receiving

• Mendoza Top Threat
• UCLA will struggle to defend
• Projection says usage up

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⛅ 4) Game Total – Under 54.5 Points

While Indiana’s offense has been explosive, their defense has been even more impressive — one of the nation’s best in yards allowed per play. UCLA will move the ball in spurts, but sustained drives will be tough against the Hoosiers’ disciplined unit.

If Indiana builds an early lead, expect them to lean on the run game and shorten the clock, keeping the total below the number.

Tip: Bet Game Total Under 54.5

Caesars

4.7/5

Tip: Game total under 54.5

• IU Defense will dominate
• UCLA under 17 points
• Match-up ideal

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💰 Betting Strategy & Final Thoughts

The best angle may be pairing Mendoza Over with Cooper Over to double down on Indiana’s aerial rhythm. Iamaleava’s rushing prop provides UCLA exposure, while the Under 54.5 acts as a hedge against a slower-paced second half.

Final Score Prediction: Indiana 38, UCLA 13. Favorite Props: Mendoza Over, Cooper Over, Iamaleava Over, Under 54.5.