Late in the first half, UCLA Bruins quarterback Ty Dieffenbach went down with a lower-body injury against Illinois in Week 11. Dieffenbach missed most of the third quarter but the reigning Player of the Week returned to try and keep the Bruins unbeaten.

Dieffenbach’s long-term status was initially unknown, with the TV broadcast announcing that the Cal Poly transfer was questionable to return against Illinois. Dieffenbach’s absence made way for Madden Iamaleava, the third quarterback Bob Chesney and the Bruins have turned to this season.

During the third quarter, Dieffenbach returned to the UCLA sideline with his helmet on, ready to return after taking a scary hit.

UCLA’s starter Nico Iamaleava is out for the season after suffering a leg injury against Oregon in Week 5. Dieffenbach has done an admirable job filling in, showing off his big arm and the ability to rush the football with his big frame.

Offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy wasn’t able to find any points in either of Madden Iamaleava second half drives, with a punt and a turnover on downs, but now the Bruins get Dieffenbach back to help close out the Week 11 game. 

Crisis averted for UCLA fans, as a serious injury to Dieffenbach would have been a heartbreaker for the College Football Playoff hopeful.