Lanning: Alexander won't be disciplined for Iamaleava hit — SkimNews
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- Dan Lanning confirmed Oregon defensive tackle Bear Alexander will not face discipline for a late punch attempt on UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava during Saturday's 17-15 home loss in Eugene.
- Nico Iamaleava suffered a knee injury on the second-quarter scramble play that left UCLA with "serious concern" about his outlook, per coach Bob Chesney.
- Bob Chesney called the play "egregious" and said it "shouldn't be a play that is allowed to occur in this sport," criticizing officials for missing the punch during live action.
- Lanning acknowledged the punch was "late and not the way it needs to be done" but defended Alexander's aggressive intent, noting Alexander told him, "I wasn't trying to hurt the guy."
- Alexander finished with six tackles in the game; the play came as he twisted Iamaleava's helmet and swung his right arm into the QB's chin while trying to punch the ball loose.
- Lanning hinted at unspecified offensive changes going forward, defending offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer but declining to elaborate, citing competitive advantage.
- Oregon hosts Nebraska this week as the Ducks look to rebound from the loss that triggered the offensive reassessment.
Why it matters: Oregon now faces Nebraska needing a turnaround after a home loss, with Lanning openly weighing offensive changes while simultaneously defending a defensive player whose late hit drew sharp criticism from Chesney. Iamaleava's knee injury leaves UCLA's season outlook uncertain at its most critical spot, amplifying the stakes for both Pac-2 programs heading into Week 6.
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