UCLA quarterback Luke Duncan is set to take over for the starter ahead of their game against the Ohio State Buckeyes. This was announced after starter Nico Iamaleava was ruled out with a concussion ahead of today’s game, with Duncan taking over.
With UCLA already out of bowl contention, they are coming up against one of the best defenses in all of College Football, according to PFSN’s defensive impact rankings. This will take some of the pressure off the backup quarterback. This is everything you need to know about Duncan, including his family, ethnicity, and more.
Luke Duncan’s Parents, Family, and Ethnicity.
Growing up in the California Bay Area, it initially seemed that Duncan would sign with the California Golden Bears. However, after speaking with former UCLA quarterback coach Ryan Gunderson, he committed to UCLA in 2023.
UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava will not play today against Ohio State due to a concussion suffered last week vs. Nebraska, per On3.
Redshirt Sophomore Luke Duncan will make his first career start. pic.twitter.com/WHSUUu22o8
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) November 15, 2025
Despite there being no public knowledge of the UCLA quarterback’s parents, Duncan revealed that his parents were incredibly excited about his decision. His brother was also attending college in LA when Duncan committed to UCLA.
“My family was so excited for me. They know how much I’ve wanted to go to UCLA so it was a dream come true for me. My brother was so excited that I would be moving close to him since he goes to college in LA.” Duncan revealed after the decision.
“The distance from home made it a very easy decision,” said Duncan. “It’s close enough so my parents can watch all my games but far enough to where I can become independent.” The UCLA quarterback continued.
Since signing for UCLA, the redshirt Sophomore has not had an opportunity to enter the game in front of his parents. However, his chance may finally have arrived as he prepares to take on arguably the best team in the nation tonight.
Coming out of Miramonte High School, Duncan was one of the best pocket passers in the nation, according to reports. As a 3-star recruit, the 6-5 195 195-pound quarterback enrolled at UCLA in 2023, set to make his first start against Ohio State tonight.
“Luke Duncan has been one of the standouts on the 7v7 circuit this off-season and there’s a lot to like there. Duncan has a smooth, easy delivery and can get the ball down the field. He is accurate to all three levels and understands anticipation and getting the ball out on time,” wrote National Recruiting Analyst Greg Biggins.
During the game against Michigan State, after a failed fourth-down conversion,  the Bruins took over, with Duncan entering the game at quarterback as Tim Skipper emptied out the bench. However, the Bruins just ran the ball to see out the game.
