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Day 2 of Mountain West Media Summit

The University of New Mexico (UNM) Lobos football team took center stage on the second day of the Mountain West Media Summit, an annual event that brings together coaches, players, and media to discuss the upcoming college football season. Held in Las Vegas, the summit provided a platform for the Lobos to share their outlook, aspirations, and preparations for the 2024 season under the leadership of head coach Bronco Mendenhall. With a mix of optimism, determination, and a focus on rebuilding, the Lobos’ representatives—Coach Mendenhall, quarterback Devon Dampier, and defensive lineman Gabriel Lopez—offered insights into the team’s mindset, strategies, and goals as they aim to turn around a program that has faced challenges in recent years.

Coach Bronco Mendenhall, who is in his first year at the helm of the Lobos after a successful tenure at BYU and Virginia, expressed a clear vision for the program. He emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation, both on and off the field, as the team works to establish a winning culture. Mendenhall acknowledged the historical struggles of the UNM football program, which has not had a winning season in several years, but he sees this as an opportunity to create something special. He spoke passionately about the unique identity of New Mexico, highlighting the state’s rich culture and diversity as a source of inspiration for the team. Mendenhall believes that embracing this identity can help unify the team and resonate with fans, fostering a sense of pride and belonging that translates into performance on game day.

A significant portion of Mendenhall’s discussion centered on the importance of player development and accountability. He stressed that success starts with the fundamentals—discipline, hard work, and a commitment to improvement every day. Mendenhall noted that the team has been working tirelessly during the offseason to improve their physical conditioning and mental toughness. He also highlighted the implementation of new systems and schemes tailored to the strengths of the current roster. While he refrained from making bold predictions about the team’s record, Mendenhall made it clear that his focus is on progress, not just in terms of wins and losses, but in how the team competes and carries itself. He wants the Lobos to be a team that plays with intensity, executes with precision, and never backs down from a challenge, regardless of the opponent.

Quarterback Devon Dampier, one of the players representing the Lobos at the summit, provided a glimpse into the team’s offensive outlook. As a key figure in the huddle, Dampier expressed excitement about the new offensive system being installed by Coach Mendenhall and his staff. He described the playbook as dynamic and versatile, designed to keep defenses guessing while maximizing the talents of the skill players. Dampier also spoke about the importance of leadership at the quarterback position, noting that he has been working to build trust and chemistry with his teammates. He emphasized the need for the offense to be efficient and protect the football, as turnovers have been a recurring issue for the Lobos in past seasons. Dampier’s comments reflected a sense of responsibility and determination to elevate the team’s performance, and he expressed confidence in the group’s ability to surprise some opponents in the upcoming season.

On the defensive side, Gabriel Lopez shared his perspective as a veteran presence on the defensive line. Lopez acknowledged that the defense has been a point of concern for the Lobos in recent years, often struggling to stop opposing offenses. However, he believes that the new coaching staff has brought a renewed sense of purpose and structure to the unit. Lopez highlighted the emphasis on fundamentals, such as tackling and gap discipline, as well as the adoption of aggressive schemes aimed at disrupting quarterbacks and creating turnovers. He also spoke about the camaraderie within the defensive unit, noting that the players have bonded over their shared goal of proving doubters wrong. Lopez’s comments underscored a collective chip on the shoulder mentality, with the defense eager to show that they can be a force to be reckoned with in the Mountain West Conference.

Both Dampier and Lopez praised Coach Mendenhall’s approach to leadership, describing him as a coach who demands excellence but also genuinely cares about his players’ personal growth. They noted that Mendenhall’s experience at higher levels of college football has brought a new level of professionalism to the program, from the way practices are structured to the expectations set for behavior off the field. This holistic approach, they believe, will help the Lobos not only improve as a team but also develop as individuals who can carry the lessons learned on the field into their lives after football.

The Mountain West Media Summit also provided an opportunity for the Lobos to discuss their place within the competitive landscape of the conference. While the Mountain West is often seen as a mid-major conference, it has produced several competitive teams in recent years, with programs like Boise State consistently challenging for national recognition. For the Lobos, the goal is to climb the ranks within the conference and establish themselves as a consistent contender. Coach Mendenhall acknowledged the talent and depth of the Mountain West, but he also expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete with anyone on their schedule. He pointed out that every game presents an opportunity to measure progress, and he is eager to see how the Lobos stack up against their conference foes.

A recurring theme throughout the Lobos’ discussions at the summit was the importance of fan support. Coach Mendenhall, Dampier, and Lopez all took time to express their gratitude for the loyal UNM fan base, known as the Lobo faithful. They recognized that the fans have stuck with the team through thick and thin, and they are determined to reward that loyalty with a product on the field that the community can be proud of. Mendenhall specifically mentioned his desire to fill University Stadium with passionate fans, creating a true home-field advantage that can intimidate opponents. He encouraged supporters to come out in full force for the upcoming season, promising that the team will give everything they have to make game days memorable.

As the summit wrapped up, the overall tone from the Lobos’ camp was one of cautious optimism. There is a clear understanding that turning around a program like UNM football will not happen overnight, but there is also a palpable sense of excitement about the direction in which the team is headed. Coach Mendenhall’s proven track record as a program builder, combined with the hunger and determination of players like Dampier and Lopez, suggests that the Lobos could be on the cusp of a resurgence. While the challenges ahead are significant, the team’s focus on fundamentals, culture, and community engagement provides a roadmap for success.

In conclusion, Day 2 of the Mountain West Media Summit offered a comprehensive look at the UNM Lobos football team as they prepare for the 2024 season. Under the guidance of Coach Bronco Mendenhall, the Lobos are embracing a new era defined by hard work, accountability, and a deep connection to the unique identity of New Mexico. With key players like Devon Dampier and Gabriel Lopez leading the charge on offense and defense, respectively, the team is poised to take steps forward, even if the journey to consistent success will require patience and perseverance. As they head into the season, the Lobos are not just playing for wins—they are playing to build a legacy that resonates with their fans and redefines what UNM football can be. The road ahead will undoubtedly have its obstacles, but if the energy and determination displayed at the summit are any indication, the Lobos are ready to face them head-on.

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