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Oregon Star Defender Called Out for Punching Nico Iamaleava by UCLA Coach

Oregon defensive tackle Bear Alexander found himself at the center of controversy after a viral clip showed him delivering a hard punch to UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava during Saturday’s game at Autzen Stadium. The incident occurred in the second quarter, with Alexander’s right hand striking Iamaleava’s helmet after the quarterback was already down following a hit by two Oregon defenders.

The play also resulted in Iamaleava suffering an injury, though no penalty was called on the field despite the clear contact. UCLA head coach Bob Chesney later condemned the hit as “egregious,” calling it unacceptable for the sport and drawing comparisons to a recent violent hit against Oregon’s Dante Moore in a game against USC two weeks prior.

The sequence has reignited discussions about player safety and officiating in college football, especially as fans and coaches alike question whether such actions should be allowed without repercussions.

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