EPISODE 2: BRONCO MENDENHALL

Born on February 21, 1966, Marc Bronco Clay Mendenhall is a seasoned American football coach, now leading the University of New Mexico Lobos in Albuquerque. Before taking the reins at UNM, Mendenhall made his mark at the University of Virginia, where he revitalized the Cavaliers and led them to their first-ever Orange Bowl appearance. He previously spent 11 successful seasons as the head coach at BYU, where he amassed an impressive career record of 135 wins and 81 losses, with 14 postseason bowl appearances, including seven victories.

Known for his unconventional methods and "Earned Not Given" motto, Mendenhall has a reputation for demanding excellence both on and off the field. Under his guidance, over 60 of his players have signed NFL contracts, with Ezekiel Ansah being a standout as the #5 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. Mendenhall's programs are also known for academic success, ranking seventh nationally for producing Academic All-Americans during his tenure.

Coming from a notable football family, Bronco's father played defensive end for BYU, and his brother, Mat Mendenhall, was a defensive end for the Super Bowl Champion Washington Redskins in Super Bowl XVII. Bronco himself was a standout safety at Oregon State University, where he served as team captain in his senior year.

In December 2023, Mendenhall was named the head football coach at the University of New Mexico, bringing his wealth of experience, passion, and innovative coaching style to the Lobos.