The No. 4-ranked UCLA Bruins faced a potential setback on Friday when starting quarterback Ty Dieffenbach left the game against Illinois due to an apparent injury.
Dieffenbach, who had been a key contributor since taking over for Nico Iamaleava, sustained the injury less than one minute before halftime.
The quarterback was hit by Illinois defensive lineman Carter Janki while attempting an incomplete pass, according to Yahoo Sports.
Witnesses observed Dieffenbach writhing on the turf while clutching his left shoulder before trainers assisted him off the field and into a medical tent.
The situation appeared concerning as the player moved toward the locker room at halftime with a noticeable limp, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
Third-string quarterback Madden Iamaleava, the brother of the injured starter Nico Iamaleava, took over the offense with the Bruins holding a 10-0 lead.
Nico Iamaleava had previously been sidelined indefinitely following a knee injury, which was earlier reported by Yahoo Sports.
Dieffenbach did not return for the start of the third quarter, leaving the Bruins to rely on their depth chart once again.
The team entered the contest with a 9-0 record and remains one of only two undefeated teams in the FBS alongside No. 2 Utah.
The College Football Playoff committee has previously considered the impact of quarterback injuries when evaluating team rankings, as noted by recent reports.
Dieffenbach had successfully led the Bruins to four consecutive victories since stepping into the starting role during the team’s Week 6 matchup against Oregon.
The Bruins now wait for further updates on the severity of the injury as they look to maintain their position in the national championship race.