Bronco Mendenhall, the former head coach at BYU and Virginia, has been appointed as the head coach of Utah State University’s football team. This marks his return to his home state of Utah after a brief tenure at the University of New Mexico. Mendenhall’s hiring is part of Utah State’s efforts to revitalize its football program and restore its competitive edge.
A Storied Coaching Career
Mendenhall’s coaching journey began in 1998 as the defensive coordinator at New Mexico, where he served until 2001. He then moved to BYU, where he spent 11 seasons as head coach from 2005 to 2015. During his time at BYU, Mendenhall led the Cougars to numerous bowl games and two Mountain West Conference championships in 2006 and 2007. His success continued at the University of Virginia from 2016 to 2021, highlighted by an appearance in the 2019 Orange Bowl. Over his 17-year head coaching career, Mendenhall compiled a 135-81 record and achieved bowl eligibility in 16 of those seasons.
A Brief Return to New Mexico
In December 2023, Mendenhall was hired as the head coach of New Mexico, signing a five-year, $6 million contract. In his sole season with the Lobos, he led the team to a 5-7 record, marking their highest win total since 2016. Notably, New Mexico secured an upset victory over then-No. 18 Washington State, their first win over a ranked team since 2003.
Transition to Utah State
In December 2024, Mendenhall was appointed as the head coach of Utah State University. The Aggies had a challenging season in 2024, finishing with a 4-8 record. Mendenhall’s extensive experience and proven track record are expected to play a pivotal role in rebuilding the program. Utah State’s athletic director, Diana Sabau, expressed confidence in Mendenhall’s ability to elevate the team, stating, “Bronco is one of the most experienced coaches in college football. His leadership, proven track record, and deep understanding of the game make him the ideal choice to elevate our program.”
Looking Ahead
As Mendenhall embarks on this new chapter with Utah State, expectations are high for a resurgence in the Aggies’ football program. His commitment to developing young athletes and fostering a culture of excellence will be crucial in the coming seasons. With a legacy of success and a deep connection to the Utah community, Mendenhall’s return to the state is poised to bring renewed hope and ambition to Utah State football.
