What to Expect from the Mountain West and Friends: A Comprehensive Analysis
The Mountain West Conference is poised for an intriguing college football season, brimming with changes and challenges that promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats. One of the most notable aspects this year is the influx of new head coaches, with seven out of the conference’s twelve teams welcoming fresh leadership. This includes some familiar faces, such as Bronco Mendenhall, who returns to the Mountain West with the University of New Mexico. The addition of a 12-team playoff system has injected a new level of excitement into the season, offering a clearer path to the College Football Playoff. For the first time in years, there is a tangible opportunity for a Mountain West team to break into the national spotlight, making this season one of the most anticipated in recent memory.
Nevada’s football program is a prime example of a team in transition. After experiencing a dramatic decline in recent seasons, the Wolf Pack is eager for a quick turnaround. The hiring of Jeff Choate as head coach, who left his position at the University of Texas, marks a significant shift in strategy. Under former coach Jay Norvell, Nevada enjoyed four successful seasons but has since struggled to maintain that momentum. There are concerns that the team might endure a winless season; however, Choate’s coaching prowess should mitigate that risk. While it’s uncertain how much improvement Choate can bring in his first year, the focus will undoubtedly be on rebuilding the program. Bowl eligibility might seem like a distant goal after the past two seasons, but it remains a possibility for the future. This season, however, is expected to be more about laying the groundwork for long-term success rather than immediate victories.
Meanwhile, the University of New Mexico has made a bold move by hiring Bronco Mendenhall, a coach with a proven track record in the Mountain West. Mendenhall’s return to the conference has generated considerable buzz, especially given his history of success on defense and his previous stint at UNM. Recruiting to Albuquerque presents its own set of challenges, but Mendenhall’s experience and tactical acumen could prove invaluable. The Lobos have lost key players from last season and will have to rely on a largely unproven roster. While the hiring of Mendenhall could pay off in the long run, the team is likely to face struggles in his first year. A rebuilding year with limited potential is predicted, with a possible record ranging from 0-12 to 2-10. Nevertheless, Mendenhall’s presence brings hope for a brighter future for UNM football.
San Diego State University is another team undergoing significant changes, with the hiring of new head coach Sean Lewis. Unlike the team’s previous defensive-focused coaches, Lewis brings a background in offense, which could signal a shift in the Aztecs’ playing style. SDSU has a strong history of success, but it remains to be seen how they will perform under new leadership. The team has potential, particularly with a young quarterback and a revamped offense. Predictions for the Aztecs’ season vary widely, with possible outcomes ranging from a disappointing 3-9 to an impressive 9-3. The key will be how quickly the team can adapt to Lewis’s offensive strategies and whether the defense can maintain its high standards from previous seasons.
Boise State continues to be a top contender in the Mountain West, despite undergoing a coaching change. Spencer Danielson has taken over from Andy Avalos, who was fired last season. The Broncos are still predicted to finish first in the conference, thanks in part to their star running back Ashton Jeanty. Jeanty, a first-team All-American in his sophomore season, returns for his junior year, providing a significant boost to the team’s offensive capabilities. Sophomore quarterback Maddux Madsen, who beat out former 5-star recruit Malachi Nelson for the starting position, will be another key player to watch. However, the team will rely on inexperienced receivers, including Texas A&M transfer Chris Marshall and Cam Camper. Improving on defense, where they gave up 30 or more points six times last season, will be crucial for Boise State’s success. With seven returning starters, including defensive end Ahmed Hassanein who had 12.5 sacks last year, the Broncos have the potential to dominate the conference once again.
UNLV Rebels are coming off a successful season in 2023, but they face several key questions as they aim to match or better their nine-win record. The biggest question mark is at the quarterback position, following the transfer of starter Jayden Maiava to USC after a strong freshman season. The Rebels will also need to make significant improvements on defense, where they allowed 6.3 yards per play and 28.6 points per game last season. Their tough schedule, which includes games against Houston and defending champion Boise State, will test their resilience and adaptability. Head coach Barry Odom will need to leverage his experience and strategic insight to navigate these challenges and keep the Rebels competitive in the conference.
Fresno State is another team to watch closely this season, with new head coach Tim Skipper at the helm following Jeff Tedford’s departure due to health concerns. The Bulldogs boast a strong offense, led by quarterback Mikey Keene and a trio of returning receivers. Their season opener against defending national champion Michigan will be a significant test of their capabilities, followed by another challenging game against UCLA. Fresno State’s performance in these early games will set the tone for their season and provide valuable insights into how well they can compete against top-tier opponents. With a blend of experienced players and new leadership, the Bulldogs have the potential to make a substantial impact in the Mountain West.
Wyoming, though not included in the initial preview, remains a team with considerable potential. Under head coach Craig Bohl, the Cowboys have consistently demonstrated resilience and competitiveness. The team’s strong offense, led by quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi and wide receiver Tory Horton, will be pivotal in their quest for success. While Wyoming may not be the frontrunner in the conference, their ability to pull off surprising victories makes them a team to watch. The Cowboys’ matchup against Boise State will be particularly telling, as it will gauge their readiness to challenge the conference’s top contenders.
Air Force Falcons, known for their consistency and disciplined play, continue to be strong contenders in the Mountain West. Head coach Troy Calhoun’s experience and strategic acumen have been instrumental in the Falcons’ sustained success. Despite facing a tough schedule, Air Force’s past performances suggest they should not be underestimated. Their disciplined approach to the game, coupled with a well-rounded roster, positions them as formidable opponents. The Falcons’ ability to execute their game plan with precision will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by their schedule and maintaining their status as a top team in the conference.
Oregon State and Washington State will also be visitors to the Mountain West this season, due to scheduling issues in their own conference. Washington State’s schedule includes tough games against teams like San Jose State, Texas Tech, and Washington. The Cougars will need to win at least four of their last six games to finish the season with a winning record. Oregon State, on the other hand, will face stiff competition, particularly in their games against Colorado State and UNLV. These matchups will provide valuable experience for both teams and offer a unique opportunity to test their mettle against Mountain West opponents.
As the Mountain West gears up for the new season, the addition of the 12-team playoff system has created a palpable sense of excitement and opportunity. For teams like Fresno State, UNLV, and Wyoming, the chance to compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff is a motivating factor. On the other hand, teams like Nevada, New Mexico, and San Jose State are focused on rebuilding and improving their programs. The dynamic nature of the conference, with its mix of seasoned contenders and emerging teams, promises a season filled with compelling storylines and intense competition. Fans can look forward to a thrilling journey as the Mountain West teams strive to make their mark on the national stage.
Overall, the upcoming season in the Mountain West Conference is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory. With numerous teams undergoing significant changes, the landscape of the conference is in flux. Whether it’s the infusion of new coaching talent, the emergence of promising young players, or the strategic adjustments being made by established teams, there is no shortage of factors that could influence the outcome of the season. As the regular season approaches, the anticipation continues to build, setting the stage for a captivating and highly competitive year of college football in the Mountain West.