Reflections on Bronco Mendenhall's Tenure at New Mexico: A Brief Assessment

Bronco Mendenhall's tenure as head coach of New Mexico has been a mix of moments that are hard to remember, characterized by incremental improvements and a series of career choices that fall short of lasting impact. When we consider his one-year stint as the head coach of the New Mexico Lobos, his legacy is shaped by the team's modest improvements from a 4-8 to a 5-7 record, culminating in the decision to move on to another Group of Five program.

From Utah to Virginia, and Back Again: A Mediocre Path

Mendenhall's journey is emblematic of a chapter that didn't turn out as he might have hoped. After a successful 11-year tenure at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he achieved a remarkable 99-43 record, he moved to Virginia for a single year, only to jump ship shortly after. This pattern continued when he ventured to New Mexico for just one season before returning to Utah, a move that reflects the volatile nature of college football coaching in the mid-tier programs.

The decision to leave the Lobos after just one season is reminiscent of the notorious choices made by Jeff Jagodzinski, a former head coach known for his high-profile gaffes. It seems that Mendenhall may be the latest addition to the hall of shame, entering the realm of coaches who seem to make the most questionable career moves. Dennis Franchione and Rich Rodriguez also join this list, with Franchione's choices perhaps meriting a "Dishonorable Mention."

The Mindset of a Mindset: Why Bronco Became a Gelding

The term "Gelding" is a fitting metaphor for Mendenhall's career trajectory post-BYU. A gelding refers to a castrated male horse, often implying a loss of potency or vitality. Similarly, Mendenhall has seemed to lose his former vibrancy and drive in coaching, instead opting for a series of less prominent positions. This repeated move from a reputable institution to one with fewer opportunities and a less eye-catching profile might be an indication of the maturing process in a coach’s career.

Mendenhall's retrenchment from a successful independent program to the competitive landscape of the Pac-12, which has now been rebranded as a G5 conference, suggests a shift in the dynamic of the college football landscape. This move reflects a broader trend in college sports where smaller programs are becoming increasingly similar, and the lines between major and mid-tier programs are blurring.

Lessons from Leadership

Mendenhall's experiences might offer some valuable lessons for aspiring leaders and coaches. First, the importance of staying true to the long-term vision and not letting the short-term pressures of change override strategic decisions. Second, the value of patience and dedication, even in challenging environments. Third, the need to reassess one's goals and adjust when necessary, without always opting for the quick and less risky choice.

The legacy of Bronco Mendenhall as a head coach is complex and multifaceted. While he made some positive contributions during his one season at New Mexico, his subsequent career moves highlight a pattern of mediocre choices that have left a mark in the annals of college football history. His journey from a successful independent program to a series of transitions in mid-tier programs underscores the dynamic nature of coaching, and the potential for even well-placed leaders to face the challenges of change and uncertainty.