Mountain West Media Days Begin in Las Vegas
The 2025 Mountain West Football Media Days start today, July 16, at Circa Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, bringing together all 12 head coaches and two student-athletes from each program for two days of interviews, insights, and season previews.
While players take the spotlight today, head coaches will step up tomorrow, July 17, to share their expectations and outlooks for the upcoming season.
This year’s event sets the stage for an exciting 2025–2026 season,
featuring a potent mix of experienced veterans and new leadership guiding teams throughout the conference.
New leadership: UNLV hired the well-known Dan Mullen, Fresno State appointed Matt Entz, a two-time FCS national champion at North Dakota State; New Mexico hired Jason Eck, who made Idaho a playoff contender; and Utah State brought back Bronco Mendenhall, a familiar face from his time at BYU, Virginia and most recently at New Mexico.
With several programs undergoing major changes, the Mountain West is preparing for important shifts as schools aim to position themselves for long-term success in an ever-changing college football landscape.
New Coaches Hoping to Elevate Their Programs
New Mexico Lobos – Jason Eck | Albuquerque, NM
Jason Eck takes on a leadership role in Albuquerque for the state’s flagship program, the Lobos, with a background in revitalizing programs.
After success at Idaho, he’s now tasked with reviving the Lobos program, which has long been overdue for a winning season.
His tenure at Idaho was characterized by consecutive playoff appearances, highlighting his skill in building competitive teams.
The Lobos fanbase, known for its resilience, eagerly anticipates a resurgence under Eck’s leadership.
This year’s schedule will be trial by fire, as they face two challenging games to start, both in front of a nationally televised audience on NBC, against Michigan at the Big House on August 30. Then, on September 12, they hit the road to face UCLA at the Rose Bowl.
Combine that with the most demanding schedule in the Mountain West Conference, as they are the only team that plays each of the top five teams.
The initial 2025 SP+ projection from ESPN ranks the New Mexico Lobos under Jason Eck at 130th overall, with an expected average of 3.6 wins for the season (and about 2.2 wins within the Mountain West).
This outlook highlights the major rebuilding Eck faces—after just one winning season in 17 years, the Lobos are expected to undergo a reset under his early leadership.
The Lobos play at University Stadium, nestled against the picturesque Sandia Mountains, offering a unique game-day experience that fans should enjoy this year watching the Jason Eck era as the Lobos head Coach.
Utah State Aggies – Bronco Mendenhall | Logan, UT
Bronco Mendenhall returns to the Mountain West, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous roles at BYU and the University of Virginia.
Fresh off a successful season at New Mexico, he now starts his journey at Utah State. Utah State brings back key defensive players and adds important transfers under his leadership.
Logan’s tight-knit community and the Aggies’ passionate fan base are known for creating an electric atmosphere at Maverik Stadium, rooting for their Aggies.
Mendenhall’s disciplined approach closely aligns with the region’s values, fostering a strong bond between the coach and the community.
He goes to Albuquerque to play the Lobos on October 25th against his former team, which was only there for a year.
You can bet the Lobos will be highly motivated to play, and it’s probably a chip-on-the-shoulder game, given how he left that program.
UNLV Rebels – Dan Mullen | Las Vegas, NV
Dan Mullen’s arrival in Las Vegas marks a new chapter for UNLV football. With SEC experience, Mullen brings high expectations and a dedication to boosting the program’s profile.
At UNLV, Dan Mullen returns to coaching after a few years away, stepping in after Barry Odom’s departure. His offensive expertise boosts Rebel optimism.
This was undoubtedly a major hire for UNLV, given Dan Mullen’s success at Florida and Mississippi State, with over 103 wins.
Expectations are rapidly building for UNLV as they near the 2025–2026 season under new head coach Dan Mullen.
A proven winner from his tenure at Mississippi State and Florida, Mullen adds instant credibility and offensive creativity to a Rebels program that has shown glimpses of potential in recent years.
With talented skill players like preseason Offensive Player of the Year Jai’Den Thomas returning, UNLV is expected to finish in the top half of the Mountain West and could compete for a conference title if Mullen’s system performs well early.
The excitement in Las Vegas is genuine — and so are the expectations.
There is no denying that this program is on the verge of becoming dominant, considering the rise in funding, coaches, and Allegiant Stadium.
Allegiant Stadium, shared with the NFL’s Raiders, provides a modern venue that, combined with Las Vegas’s lively energy, creates a unique home-field advantage.
Fresno State Bulldogs–Matt Entz | Fresno, CA
Matt Entz steps in as head coach, aiming to carry on Fresno State’s tradition of tough, hard-nosed football.
With the hiring of Matt Entz, Fresno State begins the 2025–2026 season with cautious optimism.
Entz arrives with an impressive pedigree—60–11 at North Dakota State with two FCS titles, and a defensive turnaround at USC—bringing a disciplined, championship-focused approach.
Early SP+ projections estimate the Bulldogs will finish with around 6.5 wins overall, including about 4.5 wins in Mountain West play.
Although roster turnover and key departures initially raise questions, Fresno State’s defense remains anchored by playmakers like Korey Foreman and Al’zillion Hamilton, and Entz’s cerebral approach could trigger a resurgence.
The Bulldogs’ fan base, known as the “Red Wave,” is one of the most passionate in the conference.
Valley Children’s Stadium, with its cozy atmosphere, turns into a whirlwind of noise on game days, showing the community’s strong support.
Returning Coaches and Their Impact
Boise State Broncos – Spencer Danielson | Boise, ID
After guiding the Broncos to a 12-2 season and a Mountain West title, Spencer Danielson signed a five-year contract extension.
Boise State, led by second-year head coach Spencer Danielson, enters the 2025–2026 season as the clear favorite in the Mountain West.
The Broncos are the “Big Dog” in the Mountain West Conference and have reloaded from last year’s talented team.
Danielson, following consecutive conference titles, a College Football Playoff appearance, and multiple national Coach of the Year awards, brings momentum and stability to a dominant program in Boise, Idaho.
ESPN’s SP+ model predicts the Broncos will win 9.8 games overall and 7.1 in conference, reaffirming their position as the team to beat, ESPN.
With a balanced offense—veteran quarterback Maddux Madsen, a deep and experienced offensive line, and a defense led by standout pass-rusher Jayden Virgin Morgan—Boise State has both a high ceiling and a dependable floor.
As Danielson looks to build on a remarkable 15–3 start, expectations are higher than ever: the Broncos are not just expected to dominate the Mountain West but also aim confidently at a third straight conference title and another postseason run, and they have the top players to make it happen.
Thirteen Boise State players made Phil Steele’s preseason all-Mountain West first team this year. The voting in the preseason media polls was not even close.
Boise State’s fan base, renowned for its “Smurf Turf” at Albertsons Stadium, remains a powerful presence, making it one of the most intimidating environments in college football.
Colorado State Rams – Jay Norvell | Fort Collins, CO
Entering his fourth year, Jay Norvell aims to strengthen the Rams’ standing in the conference and build on last year’s bowl appearance.
Under fourth-year coach Jay Norvell, the Colorado State Rams aim to build on their momentum from an 8–5 finish in 2024, including their first bowl appearance since 2017.
The Rams bring back dynamic quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi and are strengthened by an influx of experienced transfers and a revamped coaching staff, including new defensive coordinator Tyson Summers.
With a more challenging schedule approaching, Norvell’s task is clear: turn last season’s glimpses into consistent contention.
Canvas Stadium offers a modern setting for a passionate fan base eager to see their team succeed.
Fort Collins, with its distinctive mix of college-town charm and scenic beauty, provides a supportive environment for the program’s growth.
Air Force Falcons – Troy Calhoun | Colorado Springs, CO
Troy Calhoun, the longest-tenured coach in the Mountain West, continues to lead the Falcons with a focus on discipline and execution.
Under veteran head coach Troy Calhoun, entering his 19th season at Air Force, the Falcons are expected to rebound in 2025.
ESPN’s SP+ model ranks 94th nationwide, predicting roughly 6.2 wins overall and 4.1 in Mountain West games—a notable improvement from a disappointing 2024 season.
Despite major roster changes after a successful 2019–2023 run, Calhoun’s disciplined triple-option offense, led by senior RB Dylan Carson and a revamped offensive line, is expected to help Air Force return to bowl contention.
With a traditionally strong defense led by coach Brian Knorr and the Falcons finishing last season on a four-game winning streak—including a 28–0 blowout of Oregon State—Air Force is ready to restore its status as a serious Mountain West contender.
Make no mistake, Air Force, despite having no transfer portal cadets, has a system that simply works.
Falcon Stadium, nestled near the Rocky Mountains, offers a scenic setting where the Air Force Academy’s distinct traditions enhance the game-day experience.
Hawaii Rainbow Warriors – Timmy Chang | Honolulu, HI
Timmy Chang, a former standout quarterback at the University of Hawaii, brings a deep understanding of the program’s culture.
Under fourth-year head coach Timmy Chang, the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors face an important turning point as they enter the 2025–2026 season.
Chang, a former standout quarterback at UH, is widely expected to earn his first winning record — with SP+ projecting the Warriors around 5.5 wins overall and 3.4 in conference play, placing them near 108th nationally.
The offense creates a lot of excitement with QB Micah Alejado, who posted a remarkable 469-yard, five-touchdown performance in last season’s finale.
At the same time, returning starters Pofele Ashlock and Nick Cenacle bring game-changing potential.
On defense, coordinator Dennis Thurman brings back a core that helped elevate the unit from 121st to 89th in SP+ rankings, including standouts like Elijah Robinson and Logan Taylor.
With incoming transfers strengthening key areas and a new athletic director in place, Chang’s Brew-Up faces rising expectations: achieve bowl eligibility or risk losing momentum in what could be a career-defining season.
Chang, in his fourth year at Hawaii, faces pressure to break through and secure a bowl bid. Recent fan polls highlight his “hot seat” status, but there is no denying that the program is heading in the right direction—big ship’s turn slow, as they say.
The Rainbow Warriors’ fan base, known for its energetic support, creates a vibrant atmosphere at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex, showcasing the island’s rich football heritage.
San Diego State Aztecs – Sean Lewis | San Diego, CA
Sean Lewis starts his second year at San Diego State, aiming to stabilize an offense that struggled during his first year of rebuilding. Sean Lewis comes with a reputation for offensive innovation.
Entering his second season, Sean Lewis faces high expectations to reverse SDSU’s downturn, as Aztec Nation is getting increasingly restless with more success there in San Diego.
After a difficult 3–9 debut, ESPN’s SP+ model forecasts a modest rebound to approximately 5.7 wins overall and 3.7 in Mountain West play, ranking them 102nd nationally.
While Lewis continues implementing his fast-paced “Aztec Fast” offense—bringing in transfers like QB Jayden Denegal, RB Christian Washington, and WR Myles Kitt-Denton—the defense remains anchored by star OLB Trey White (12.5 sacks in 2024) and a strong returning unit.
With a nearly rebuilt roster and a tough schedule that includes former Pac-12 teams, Lewis’s “Year 0” season seems in the past—and the Aztecs face pressure to demonstrate real progress in 2025.
San Diego and its enthusiastic fan base support the Aztecs at Snapdragon Stadium, a venue that combines modern amenities with a lively coastal atmosphere.
San Jose State Spartans – Ken Niumatalolo | San Jose, CA
Ken Niumatalolo brings extensive experience from his successful time at Navy. The Spartans’ fan base, though smaller, is highly dedicated, and CEFCU Stadium provides an intimate setting where fans feel personally connected to the action on the field.
In his second year leading the team, Ken Niumatalolo has San Jose State prepared for a breakout season.
This program is on the verge of having the potential to be really good. and is heading in the right direction.
Following a strong 7–6 debut that included a bowl appearance, SP+ projections rank the Spartans 83rd nationally, with an estimated total of around 7.3 wins and 5.3 wins in Mountain West play.
Despite losing standout All-American receiver Nick Nash and other key contributors, San Jose State retains core talents like QB Walker Eget, RB Floyd Chalk, and several defensive standouts. It has strengthened its roster with impactful transfers at receiver and defensive back.
With continuity in coordinator roles (Craig Stutzmann on offense, Derrick Odum on defense) and Niumatalolo’s proven leadership, the Spartans begin the season with momentum and a strong chance to rise to the top tier of the Mountain West.
Wyoming Cowboys – Jay Sawvel | Laramie, WY
Jay Sawvel takes over in Laramie, aiming to uphold the Cowboys’ tradition of toughness. War Memorial Stadium, the high-altitude stadium in the FBS, presents a unique challenge for visiting teams.
The local fan base, known for facing tough weather, shows unwavering support.
Under second-year head coach Jay Sawvel, the Wyoming Cowboys are expected to make a modest rebound in the 2025–2026 season.
After a rough 3–9 debut in 2024, ESPN’s SP+ model places Wyoming around 105th nationally, projecting about 5.4 wins overall and 3.6 in Mountain West play .
With considerable roster changes, Sawvel added 13 transfers—many from lower divisions—to rebuild the depth chart, especially on defense.
Offensively, continuity returns as quarterback Kaden Anderson competes for the starting job, backed by a veteran offensive line and playmakers like tight end John Michael Gyllenborg
While the Cowboys aren’t expected to compete with the Mountain West’s top teams, some improvement is expected as Sawvel keeps developing his program and stabilizing the team.
Nevada Wolf Pack – Jeff Choate | Reno, NV
Jeff Choate brings a defensive mindset to the Wolf Pack. Mackay Stadium, set against the Sierra Nevada mountains, serves as a fortress for a fan base eager to see their team return to prominence.
Nevada is expected to take a notable step forward under Choate in his sophomore campaign.
After a tough 3–10 debut in 2024—marked by six one-score losses—the Wolf Pack come back in 2025 with a better roster and cautious optimism.
ESPN’s SP+ model estimates roughly 4.1 total wins and 2.4 in Mountain West games, ranking them around 124th nationally.
Choate has aggressively refreshed the roster via the portal and high school recruiting, bringing in key transfers to shore up the offensive line and secondary.
With quarterback Chubba Purdy returning and a rebuilt defense led by DC Kane Ioane, Nevada could regain the competitive edge it lost in recent years.
Many anticipate a classic “Second Year Bump,” as seen in other Wolf Pack rebuilds, and if Choate’s system clicks, a bowl berth isn’t out of reach.
The 2025 Mountain West is shaping up to be one of its most exciting seasons yet, with four new head coaches leading the way, veteran leaders fighting to keep the momentum, and several teams on the verge of a breakthrough.
From playoff contenders to rebuilding teams, this fall offers many storylines—and plenty of football in the Mountain West Conference.
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