The Coaching Career Of Jason Cameron - NCAA 25

[JasonForTheWin]

UTEP Appoints Jason Cameron, 42, as 26th Head Coach in School History




EL PASO, TX - The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) has announced that Jason Cameron, 42, will take over as the school's 26th Head Coach, succeeding Dana Dimel, who was recently relieved of his duties after a lackluster 20-49 record over the span of five years. Cameron, formerly with Mercer University, brings a commendable coaching resume to UTEP, having achieved a remarkable 26-5 record during his tenure at the helm of the Mercer Bears.

Coach Cameron's appointment at UTEP represents a significant step forward for the Miners' football program, as the university seeks to regain its competitive edge under new leadership. His hiring comes after a thorough search process conducted by UTEP's administration, which recognized the need for a change to revitalize the team's performance.

Before helming the Mercer Bears, where he enjoyed a notably successful stint, Cameron contributed to his alma mater, the University of South Florida (USF), as a Safeties coach. An alumni of USF himself, graduating in 2004, Cameron's playing career was marred by injuries. However, he remained passionately involved in the sport by joining USF as a graduate assistant under the revered Coach Jim Leavitt, whom Cameron credits as a mentor and guiding influence.

Taking his first step as a head coach, Cameron briefly coached at the high school level, achieving an impressive 10-1 record at Gaither High School in Tampa, Florida. Following his time at Gaither, Cameron assumed the role of Linebackers coach at Fullerton College in Georgia. Subsequently, he became the head coach at Franklin-Perkins College, accumulating a respectable 10-15 record over four years at the helm.

Moving up the coaching ladder, Cameron's talent was recognized, earning him the position of Defensive Coordinator at Mercer University. Here, his defensive units experienced immediate improvements, significantly reducing the passing yards allowed from 325 to 225 in his first year. Due to his impressive coaching acumen and transformative impact on Mercer's defense, Cameron earned the promotion to head coach after the 2019 season.

UTEP's Athletic Director expressed confidence and optimism in Coach Cameron's ability to lead the Miners to future success. "Jason Cameron's wealth of experience, dedication, and his remarkable track record at Mercer solidified our decision to appoint him as our new head coach," said the UTEP Athletic Director.

Commenting on his appointment, Cameron expressed his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to lead the Miners. "I am deeply honored to join UTEP's football program and contribute to its resurgence. My goal is to cultivate a winning culture, develop our student-athletes both on and off the field, and bring pride back to the organization," said Cameron.

With Cameron's proven coaching ability and a shared vision for success, fans and alumni enthusiastically anticipate the start of the upcoming season, hopeful for a revival of UTEP's football program.

For further information, please contact: John Smith Public Relations Coordinator University of Texas at El Paso Phone: 555-123-4567 Email: [email protected]



Coaching History:

2004 - 2006: USF - Grad Assistant
2007 - 2009: USF - Safeties Coach
2010-2011: Gaither High School - Head Coach (10-1)
2012: Fullerton College - LB Coach
2013 - 2017: Franklin-Perkins College - Head Coach (10-15)
2018-2019: Mercer University - Defensive Coordinator
2020-2023: Mercer University - Head Coach (26-5)

[JasonForTheWin]

UTEP Hires Jim Leavitt as Defensive Coordinator, Reuniting with Former Mentee Jason




El Paso, TX - UTEP has recently announced the appointment of Jim Leavitt as the new Defensive Coordinator for the university's football team. The decision to bring Leavitt onboard was an easy one for Head Coach Jason Cameron, who considers him a mentor and recognizes his proven track record.

Leavitt's coaching relationship with Cameron dates back to their time together at the University of South Florida (USF) from 2000 to 2003. During Leavitt's tenure as head coach, the Bulls achieved an impressive record of 24-9. His overall success at USF, with 95 wins, makes him the all-time wins leader for the program.

However, Leavitt's coaching career took a turn in 2010 when he was fired from USF following an investigation into an incident involving a player. According to USF officials, Leavitt had allegedly struck a player in the locker room during halftime of a game against Louisville on November 21, 2009. Leavitt denied these allegations, claiming he was merely trying to console the player. The investigation revealed that Leavitt had not been truthful about the incident and had interfered with the inquiry, prompting USF to dismiss him.

The Tampa Tribune reported that USF President Judy Genshaft and Athletic Director Doug Woolard felt compelled to terminate Leavitt's contract after he refused to acknowledge any wrongdoing. In January 2011, a settlement of 2 million for salary and benefits as well as a payment of $750,000 "acknowledging Coach Leavitt's contributions to building USF's nationally respected football program.

Despite this controversy, Leavitt's coaching experience and expertise cannot be overlooked. His coaching resume extends beyond USF, encompassing roles at various esteemed institutions such as Kansas State, the San Francisco 49ers, Colorado, Oregon, Florida State, Florida Atlantic, and SMU.

UTEP is hopeful that Leavitt's vast knowledge and guidance will significantly contribute to the growth and success of their defensive unit. The university and football program firmly believe in second chances and are confident that Leavitt will make a positive impact at UTEP.

Leavitt's appointment as Defensive Coordinator at UTEP is a reunion that brings together two individuals who share a deep professional bond. With Leavitt's wealth of experience and Cameron's vision for the team, expectations are high for the Miners' defensive performance in the upcoming football season.


UTEP Announces the Hiring of Former QB Jameil Showers as New QB Coach



EL PASO, Texas - In an exciting move for the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) football program, former quarterback Jameil Showers has been appointed as the new QB coach, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the team.

Showers, who had a remarkable playing career at UTEP, is eagerly returning to his alma mater to help shape the future of Miner football. Known for his leadership skills and on-field prowess during his time as a Miner, Showers will now be passing on his knowledge and mentoring the current and future quarterbacks of the UTEP Miners.

With his appointment, UTEP aims to enhance their offensive strategy and develop the quarterbacks into star players. Showers' experience at both the collegiate and professional levels will undoubtedly provide invaluable insights and techniques to the team.

Having previously played for Texas A&M University and the University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB), Showers knows what it takes to succeed in highly competitive football programs. He had the opportunity to learn from top coaches and work alongside talented teammates, which undoubtedly contributed to his growth as a player.

After his college career, Showers pursued his dream of playing professional football and played in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets. Such experience in the highest level of the sport will bring a unique perspective and a winning mentality to the Miner quarterbacks.

UTEP's Head Coach, Jason Cameron, expressed his excitement about Showers joining the coaching staff, stating, "Jameil Showers brings an impressive combination of knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to our program. His achievements as a player speak volumes about his abilities, and I have no doubt that he will help develop our quarterbacks into top-tier performers."

The UTEP community has eagerly welcomed Showers back to his alma mater, recognizing the value he brings to the program. Showers' return to UTEP demonstrates the strong bond that exists within the Miner family and the desire to create a winning tradition.

[JasonForTheWin]

Kenechi Udeze Joins UTEP Miners as New DL Coach, Bringing NFL and College Experience



EL PASO, TX - The UTEP Miners Football program is pleased to announce the addition of Kenechi Udeze as the new Defensive Line (DL) Coach. With a remarkable background in both the NFL and college football, Udeze brings a wealth of expertise and a track record of success to his new role.

Udeze's impressive career began at the University of Southern California (USC), where he played as a defensive end from 2001 to 2003. During his college career, Udeze achieved remarkable milestones and showcased his talent, including being named a two-time All-American. In his final season at USC, Udeze recorded an astounding 22.5 tackles for loss and 16.5 sacks, establishing himself as a dominant force on the defensive line.

Udeze's performance at USC caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection as the 20th overall pick in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. Throughout his professional career, Udeze played as a defensive end for the Vikings from 2004 to 2007.

Though his NFL career was cut short due to a health battle with leukemia, Udeze's impact on the field was notable. He recorded 31 tackles, including 5.5 sacks and two forced fumbles during his final season with the Vikings in 2007. Udeze's resilience and determination in overcoming his health challenges have been an inspiration to many.

Now, Udeze brings his wealth of knowledge and experience to the UTEP Miners as the new DL Coach. His understanding of defensive line techniques and strategy, combined with his personal journey of perseverance, will undoubtedly make him an invaluable asset to the Miners' coaching staff and student-athletes.

"We are thrilled to welcome Kenechi Udeze to the UTEP Miners football program," said head coach Jason Cameron. "Udeze's remarkable accomplishments and his tenacity are a true testament to his character. We believe he will have an exceptional impact on our defensive line and the overall development of our student-athletes."









Jason Cameron Announces Inaugural Coaching Staff at UTEP, Bolstering Miners' Football Program

EL PASO, TX - The UTEP Miners Football program takes another stride forward as head coach Jason Cameron finalizes his first coaching staff, assembling a talented and experienced group of individuals.

Tyler Ebell joins the Miners as the new Running Back (RB) Coach, bringing his wealth of experience and a strong history with UTEP. Ebell, a former standout running back for the UTEP Miners, holds records at the university, including the single-season rushing record of 1,523 yards set in 2002. His exceptional performance during his collegiate career makes Ebell an ideal choice to develop and mentor UTEP's running backs.

Kerry Cash, an NFL veteran and former tight end, assumes the role of Tight Ends (TE) Coach. Cash's extensive NFL background includes playing for multiple teams, including the Indianapolis Colts, Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, and New York Jets. He brings invaluable knowledge and expertise to his new role, having competed at the highest level of the sport.

Chris Houston, a former NFL cornerback, joins UTEP as the new Defensive Backs (DB) Coach. Houston's notable NFL career spans over eight seasons, during which he played for the Atlanta Falcons and the Detroit Lions. His experience as a professional player coupled with his positional expertise will be instrumental in developing UTEP's defensive backs.

Carey Clayton has been appointed as the Offensive Line (OL) Coach, bringing his extensive coaching experience to the Miners. Clayton has held various coaching positions at the collegiate level, where he has gained a reputation for his dedication and expertise in offensive line development. Under Clayton's guidance, the UTEP offensive line is poised to become a formidable force.

Larry Kirksey, a seasoned coach with an impressive coaching track record, assumes the role of Wide Receiver (WR) Coach. Kirksey's extensive coaching experience includes collegiate and professional stints, including working as the WR coach for the Houston Texans and the Cleveland Browns. His expertise in wide receiver development will be invaluable to the growth and success of UTEP's receiving corps.

The completion of Jason Cameron's inaugural coaching staff signifies UTEP's commitment to building a strong and competitive football program. The combined knowledge, experience, and passion of these esteemed coaches will undoubtedly contribute to the development of UTEP's student-athletes and the program's overall success.

"We are thrilled to welcome Tyler Ebell, Kerry Cash, Chris Houston, Carey Clayton, and Larry Kirksey to the UTEP Miners football program," said head coach Jason Cameron. "Their expertise, passion, and dedication will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our program and the success of our student-athletes."

[JasonForTheWin]

2024 UTEP MINERS ROSTER - Part One
#	OFFENSE	POS	HT	WT	CLASS	HOMETOWN
74	Skyler Locklear	QB	5'11	189	So(R)	Clayton, NC
74	Cade McConnell	QB	6'1	195	Jr(R)	Los Alamitos, CA
68	Kevin Hurley	QB	6'3	233	Sr(R)	Walnut, MS
65	JP Pickles - REDSHIRT	QB	6'1	200	F	Tallahassee, FL
63	Rickie Devlin	QB	6'3	228	So	San Antonio, TX
60	Jeff Tracy - REDSHIRT	QB	6'4	238	So	Merriville, IN
76	Jevon Jackson	HB	5'8	200	Jr(R)	Decatur, AL
75	Daryon Triche	HB	5'9	190	So(R)	Cedar Hill, TX
68	Tevin Randle	HB	6'0	199	Sr	Gillette, WY
67	Wayne Strong	HB	6'0	211	So(R)	Walnut Creek, CA
62	Lance Barnes	HB	6'0	196	So	San Antonio, TX
61	Isaiah Wall - REDSHIRT	HB	5'11	200	So	Cuero, TX
72	Jaden Smith	WR	5'10	195	Sr(R)	Atlanta, GA
71	Trey Goodman	WR	5'11	175	Sr(R)	Atlanta, GA
70	Emari White	WR	6'0	185	Jr(R)	Antelope, CA
65	Javoni Gardere	WR	6'0	195	So(R)	Dublin, CA
65	Ashton Nickleberry	WR	5'10	181	Jr(R)	Brandon, MS
59	Dillon Goodard	WR	6'3	216	Jr	Missoula, MT
58	Cory Foster - REDSHIRT	WR	6'3	231	So	Logansport, LA
58	Devin Claxton	WR	5'8	175	Fr(R)	Frisco, TX
57	Lucas Flores	WR	6'2	184	Jr(R)	El Paso, TX
57	Tyler Perez	WR	5'9	195	Sr	Elmhurst, IL
52	Johnny Mayo - REDSHIRT	WR	6'5	220	Fr	Midland, TX
70	Judah Ezinwa	TE	6'3	240	So(R)	Fontana, CA
69	Julian Lopez	TE	6'1	244	Sr(R)	El Paso, TX
68	Nick Hitchens	TE	6'3	240	Sr	San Antonio, TX
65	Martavious Collins	TE	6'4	265	Fr	Rome, GA
64	Luke Seib	TE	6'4	222	So(R)	Blue Springs, MO
62	Josh Schuahts - REDSHIRT	TE	6'2	210	Fr	Tallahassee, FL
57	Angelo Tejada	TE	5'11	222	Sr	San Antonio, TX
54	Josh Hancock	TE	5'9	185	Jr(R)	El Paso, TX
74	Isaiah Wright	LT	6'3	307	Sr	Columbia, SC
67	Joquan Toney	LT	6'4	301	Jr(R)	Hunstville, AL
61	Lance Middleton	LT	6'8	297	Fr(R)	San Antonio, TX
59	Jerry Tull - REDSHIRT	LT	6'4	302	Fr	Chicago, IL
67	Sterling Springs	LG	6'2	310	Jr	Odessa, TX
62	Jake Riggs	LG	6'3	290	Fr	Mufreesboro, TN
59	Jerry Potts - REDSHIRT	LG	6'2	282	Fr	Midland, TX
#	DEFENSE	POS	HT	WT	CLASS	HOMETOWN
70	Devin Goree	LE	6'3	245	Sr(R)	Denton, TX
67	Jaylin Jones	LE	6'4	210	Fr	Beaumont, TX
63	Byron Allison	LE	6'3	245	Jr(R)	Converse, TX
63	Stratton Shufelt - REDSHIRT	LE	6'2	220	Fr	Rio Rancho, NM
86	Maurice Westmoreland	RE	6'2	235	Sr	Houston, TX
70	Hunter Rapolla	RE	6'3	251	Sr	Temecula, CA
66	Patrick Washington	RE	6'1	234	Jr	Groton, MA
60	Nasir Atkins - REDSHIRT	RE	6'4	242	Fr	McAllen, TX
74	Sione Tonga'uitla	DT	6'0	295	Sr	Tempe, AZ
72	KD Johnson	DT	6'1	300	Sr	Houston, TX
71	Quinzavious Warren	DT	6'2	330	Jr(R)	Canton, MS
65	Ashton Coker	DT	6'2	290	Fr	Katy, TX
62	Logologo Va'a	DT	6'3	292	So(R)	Santa Barbara, CA
68	John McPherson	LOLB	6'0	229	Jr(R)	El Paso, TX
74	Dorian Hopkins	MLB	6'0	226	Sr(R)	Memphis, TN
72	Jake Hall	MLB	6'2	230	Sr(R)	San Juan Capitrano, CA
69	Antwuan Williams	MLB	6'2	243	Jr(R)	Cumming, GA
64	Robert Huntington	MLB	6'0	234	So(R)	Converse, TX
66	Dylan Bran-Turner	ROLB	6'1	210	Fr(R)	Dallas, TX
66	Trey Dunson	ROLB	6'2	221	Sr(R)	Franklin, GA
59	Carlos Beal	ROLB	6'1	244	Fr	Montgomery, AL
75	Josiah Allen	CB	5'10	179	Sr	Elk Grove, CA
74	Yessman Green	CB	6'2	190	Sr	Mobile, AL
68	John Burriss III	CB	6'0	170	Jr(R)	Mesquite, TX
68	Anthony Odoms	CB	5'11	175	Sr	Houston, TX
65	Chris Sermon	CB	6'2	191	Jr	Yoakum, TX
65	Jaylon Shelton	CB	6'2	190	Jr(R)	New London, TX
64	Charles Gvens	CB	5'11	188	Jr	San Antonio, TX
62	Jovani Barnes	CB	6'1	198	So	San Antoniom TX
62	Devonta Greene - REDSHIRT	CB	5'8	199	So	Laurel, MS
78	Kory Chapman	FS	5'10	178	Sr	Hoover, AL
67	Deven Harold	FS	5'9	206	So(R)	St. Petersburgh, FL
66	Michael Ray Jr	FS	6'2	200	Jr	Houston, TX
78	Xavier Smith	SS	6'0	186	So(R)	Atlanta, GA
70	Jaycee Hunter	SS	6'0	185	Sr	Mission Viejo, CA
66	Will Westerbrook	SS	6'1	213	So(R)	Oxford, AL
65	Lyle Frazier	SS	5'11	207	Jr	San Antonio, TX
#	SPECIAL TEAMS	POS	HT	WT	CLASS	HOMETOWN
71	Buzz Flabiano	K	6'0	175	So(R)	Plano East, TX
59	Quentin Shields	K	5'9	189	Fr(R)	San Antonio, TX
68	Adam Jacklin	P	5'11	195	Fr(R)	Melbourne, Aus

.

2024 UTEP MINERS ROSTER - Part Two
#	OFFENSE	POS	HT	WT	CLASS	HOMETOWN
65	Cody Barwin	C	6'4	288	So(R)	Converse, TX
63	Ivan Escobar	C	6'2	289	Jr(R)	El Paso, TX
58	Elliot Mills - REDSHIRT	C	6'2	285	Fr	San Antonio, TX
77	Otis Pitts III	RG	6'3	345	Sr(R)	Grand Praire, TX
56	Rolando Beltran	RG	6'3	295	So(R)	El Paso, TX
74	Brennan Smith	RT	6'3	290	Jr(R)	Pensacola, FL
71	Azizi Henry	RT	6'4	297	Jr(R)	Wylie, TX

Schedule:

Week 0: Bye
Week 1: at Nebraska
Week 2: vs. Southern Utah
Week 3: at Liberty
Week 4: at Colorado State
Week 5: Bye
Week 6: vs Sam Houston State
Week 7: at Western Kentucky
Week 8: vs FIU
Week 9: at Louisianna Tech
Week 10: vs Middle Tennessee State
Week 11: vs Kennesaw State
Week 12: Bye
Week 13: at Tennessee
Week 14: at New Mexico State
Week 15: Bye
Week 16: Conference Champonship

[JasonForTheWin]

Miners Open Season With A Loss In Lincoln




LINCOLN, NE - In Jason Cameron's debut as Head Coach at UTEP, the Nebraska Cornhuskers showcased a powerful offense led by quarterback Dylan Raiola, easily defeating the Miners 28-13.

Raiola had a stellar performance, completing 13 out of 15 passes for 256 yards and two touchdowns. He connected with wide receiver Isaiah Neyor for a remarkable 72-yard touchdown pass, opening up the second quarter with a bang. Raiola's second touchdown pass was a 23-yard strike to Thomas Fidane II, solidifying Nebraska's lead.

QB Skyler Locklear led the UTEP Miners and displayed his skill with 25 completions on 39 attempts for 268 yards. Although Locklear managed to throw one touchdown pass, he also threw one interception. UTEP's passing game was anchored by wide receivers Emari White, who recorded six catches for 81 yards, and Jaden Smith, who hauled in five catches for 51 yards. Trey Goodman, a transfer from Austin Peay, made an immediate impact with two catches, including a 72 yard touchdown.

On the ground, Nebraska's running back Dante Dowdell made his presence felt, rushing for 61 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Meanwhile, UTEP's running game struggled, with Daryon Triche gaining only 38 yards and Jevon Jackson adding 23 yards while finding the end zone.

Despite being limited to four catches for 66 yards, Nebraska's standout receiver Malachi Coleman still played a crucial role for the team. On the other hand, Isaiah Neyor shined with a remarkable performance, amassing 135 receiving yards and scoring once. Thomas Fidane II contributed with two catches, including a touchdown reception.

Defensively, Nebraska's linebackers John Bullock and Ty Robinson each recorded a sack to disrupt UTEP's offense. Additionally, Thomas Hill clinched the victory for Nebraska with a late-game interception, effectively ending UTEP's potential comeback drive.

"I don't believe in victories in defeat." Coach Cameron said. "However, there were some bright spots and we did see some of the foundation being built today."

Next week, the Miners will be home in their opener against Southern Utah.

UTEP Miners at Nebraska Cornhuskers
Aug 31, 2024	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
UTEP Miners (0-0)	7	0	0	6	13
Nebraska Cornhuskers (0-0)	7	7	14	0	28

Team Stats Comparison
	UTEP	NEB
Total Offense	335	317
Rushing Yards	67	61
Passing Yards	268	256
First Downs	20	15
Punt Return Yards	15	0
Kick Return Yards	31	18
Total Yards	381	335
Turnovers	2	0
3rd Down Conversion	6-11-54%	3-5-60%
4th Down Conversion	2-3-66%	0-0
2-Point Conversion	0-0	0-0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	1-0-33%	3-0-75%
Penalties	0	10
Possession Time	12:24	7:36

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		UTEP	NEB
4:23	(UTEP) Jevon Jackson 2 yd run - XP Good	7	0
2:10	(NEB) Dante Dowdell 17 yd run - XP Good	7	7
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		UTEP	NEB
7:54	(NEB) Isaiah Neyor 72 yd pass from Raiola - XP Good	7	14
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		UTEP	NEB
8:10	(NEB) Thomas Fidane II 23 yd pass from Raiola - XP Good	7	21
7:02	(NEB) Dante Dowdell 3 yd run - XP good	7	28
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		UTEP	NEB
1:10	(UTEP) Trey Goodman 65 yd pass from Locklear - XP MISS	13	28

UTEP Miners PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Skyler Locklear 25-39 268 1 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Daryon Triche 7 38 5.4 0 Jevon Jackson 8 23 2.9 1 Tevin Randle 2 8 4.0 0 Skyler Lockler 3 -2 -0.7 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Emari White 6 81 13.5 0 Jaden Smith 5 51 10.2 0 Judah Ezinwa 5 31 6.2 0 Javoni Gardere 3 21 7.0 0 Daryon Triche 3 -1 -0.3 0 Trey Goodman 2 70 35.0 1 Jevon Jackson 1 15 15.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Kory Chapman 7 0 0 0 Jaycee Hunter 5 0 0 0 Maurice Westmoreland 4 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Buzz Flabiano 0-0 1-2 1 0 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Adam Jacklin 2 47 23.5 1 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Dillon Goodard 3 31 10.3 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Dillon Goodard 2 15 7.5 0

Nebraska Cornhuskers PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Dylan Raiola 13-15 2356 2 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Dante Dowdel 19 61 3.2 2 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Malachi Coleman 4 66 16.5 0 Isaiah Neyor 4 135 33.8 1 Thomas Fidane II 2 28 14.0 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD John Bullock 7 1.0 0 0 Ty Robinson 7 1.0 0 0 Tommi Hill 2 0 1 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Tristan Alvano 0-0 4-4 4 0 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Brian Buschimi 2 96 48.0 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Jaylen Lloyd 1 12 12.0 0 Alfonso Allen 1 6 6.0 0

[JasonForTheWin]

UTEP Football Recruiting Trail Sees Hits and Misses as Scholarships Are Sent Out

EL PASO, TX - The UTEP Miners football program has been working tirelessly on its recruiting trail, sending out scholarships to prospective recruits in hopes of bolstering the team's roster for the upcoming season. However, news has emerged that UTEP has missed out on two potential recruits, raising questions about their ability to secure standout talent.

One notable loss for UTEP is three-star recruit Gio Law, a massive 6'7, 305-pound right tackle from Arizona. Law, rated as the fourth best recruit in the state, ultimately decided to commit to Boise State, leaving UTEP searching for another strong offensive lineman. Offensive Line Coach Carey Clayton expressed his disappointment in losing out on Law.

"Gio Law is an exceptional talent with tremendous size and strength," Coach Clayton explained. "He could have been a game-changer for our offensive line. Losing out on him is certainly disappointing, but we wish him the best at Boise State. We will continue to pursue other talented prospects who possess the qualities we are looking for."

Another recruit UTEP lost out on is quarterback Dillon Colcough, a one-star recruit from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Colcough recently committed to New Mexico State after leading his high school team to the conference championships. His impressive performance included throwing for 1,058 yards and rushing for 687 yards, showcasing his versatility and leadership skills.

While these losses may sting for UTEP, the coaching staff remains focused on finding the right recruits to strengthen the team. The recruiting process is highly competitive, and even experienced programs face challenges in securing top talent. UTEP is committed to identifying players who align with their program's values and can contribute to their overall success both on and off the field.

As the recruitment period continues, UTEP looks forward to announcing new signings and reinforcing their roster with talented players who will help shape the future of the program. Despite missing out on Law and Colcough, the Miners remain determined to build a competitive team and create a successful season ahead.

[JasonForTheWin]

*** I played through this game, and didn't realize that the game doesn't keep game summaries for 1AA schools, so this will be missing a lot.*****


UTEP Outlasts Southern Utah in a High-Scoring Battle: 49-37



EL PASO, TX - The UTEP Miners triumphed in a thrilling football contest against Southern Utah, with quarterback Skyler Locklear leading the charge with an impressive five touchdown passes. However, the visiting team kept the game competitive, resulting in a final score of 49-37 in favor of UTEP. Locklear's stellar performance propelled the Miners to victory, despite some struggles on the defensive end.

Locklear was the standout star of the game, showcasing his accuracy and skill by completing 24 of 31 passes for an impressive 398 yards. The quarterback had a near-flawless performance, missing only seven targets while delivering five touchdown passes. Backup QB Cade McConnell, however, had a difficult outing, going 4 for 9 and throwing three interceptions.

"It's all about stepping up when your number is called," remarked Locklear after the game. "I am proud of how our offense performed, but we still have work to do as a team to iron out our weaknesses."

In the rushing game, senior RB Tevin Randle took the lead for UTEP, gaining 81 yards and scoring a touchdown. Starter Jevon Jackson also contributed 74 rushing yards, while Daryon Triche added 42 yards on the ground. UTEP's wide receivers, Jaden Smith and Emari White, proved instrumental in the passing game, both surpassing 100 receiving yards and combining for five touchdowns.

While UTEP's offense demonstrated its potency, the team's defensive performance raised concerns. Despite star defensive end Maurice Westmoreland enjoying a career game with four sacks, the Miners struggled to contain Southern Utah's passing attack, allowing over 500 yards through the air. However, a late-game saving grace came in the form of a pick-six by senior free safety Kory Champman, momentarily buoying the defensive backfield.

Defensive coordinator Jim Leavitt addressed the team's defensive challenges, stating, "We need to put on our hard hats and continue putting in the hard work. Today's performance was not up to our standards, and it's our responsibility to improve. We will identify the areas that need attention and work diligently to correct them."

The Miners' victory over Southern Utah highlighted their offensive prowess, with Locklear leading the charge with his five touchdown passes. While the defense faced difficulties, UTEP's coaching staff remains focused on addressing those issues and putting forth the necessary effort to improve. As the season progresses, the Miners aim to fine-tune their game and maintain their winning momentum.

Next week, the Miner open up conference play as they travel to Lynchburg, VA to take on Liberty.

Southern Utah Thunderbirds at UTEP Miners
Sep 7, 2024	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Southern Utah Thunderbirds (0-1)					37
UTEP Miners (1-1)					49

Southern Utah Thunderbirds

UTEP Miners PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Skyler Locklear 24-31 398 5 1 Cade McConnell 4-9 39 0 3 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Tevin Randle 8 81 10.1 1 Jevon Jackson 16 74 4.6 0 Daryon Triche 16 42 2.6 0 Skyler Locklear 2 17 8.5 0 Cade McConnell 3 -4 -1.3 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Emari White 6 114 19.0 3 Jaden Smith 5 131 26.2 2 Jevon Jackson 5 41 8.2 0 Trey Goodman 4 63 15.8 0 Judah Ezinwa 4 47 11.8 0 Julian Lopez 2 25 12.5 0 Dillon Goodard 1 11 11.0 0 Javoni Gardere 1 5 5.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Kory Chapman 13 0 1 1 Jaycee Hunter 10 1.0 0 0 Maurice Westmoreland 7 4.0 0 0 Jake Hall 4 0.5 0 0 KD Johnson 4 0.5 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Buzz Flabiano 1-2 4-6 7 25 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Tyler Perez 3 45 15 0 Ashton Nickleberry 2 29 14.5 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Ashton Nickleberry 4 17 4.3 0

[JasonForTheWin]

UTEP's Maurice Westmoreland Earns National and Conference Honors as Defensive Player of the Week



EL PASO, TX - UTEP defensive end Maurice Westmoreland has been named the National Defensive Player of the Week, as well as the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week, following his stellar performance against Southern Utah. This well-deserved recognition comes as Westmoreland, a senior hailing from Houston, TX, showcased his dominance on the field, recording an impressive four sacks.

Westmoreland's outstanding game was instrumental in the Miners' triumph over Southern Utah. The senior defender demonstrated his remarkable skill, disrupting the opposing team's offensive plays and causing significant disruptions in the backfield. His four sacks were a standout performance, solidifying his status as a key defensive threat.

Grateful for the honors bestowed upon him, Westmoreland expressed his gratitude towards his teammates and gave a special mention to Defensive Line Coach Kenechi Udeze.

"I want to thank my teammates for their unwavering support and trust in me," said Westmoreland. "None of this would have been possible without their contributions and our collective effort. I am extremely grateful for the recognition and I want to give a special shoutout to Coach Udeze, whose guidance and mentorship have played a vital role in my development as a player."

Westmoreland's exceptional performance not only showcased his individual talent but also reflected the collective strength of the UTEP defense. His ability to consistently apply pressure and disrupt the opposing offense played a crucial role in the team's victory.

The National Defensive Player of the Week award recognizes Westmoreland's standout performance on a national level, reflecting his remarkable talent and impact on the game. Additionally, being named Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week highlights his dominance within the conference, further solidifying his reputation as one of the top defensive players in the region.

As UTEP continues its football season, Westmoreland's accolades serve as a testament to the Miners' defensive prowess and their quest for success. The team will look to build upon their strong start, with Westmoreland poised to continue making a significant impact on the field.







UTEP Bolsters Defense with Signing of 3-Star Recruit Alec Clauss



EL PASO, TX - UTEP's football program has scored a significant victory on the recruiting trail by securing the commitment of 3-star recruit Alec Clauss. The 6'4, 289-pound edge rusher from Sacramento, CA, had garnered interest from other schools such as San Jose State and Arizona State, but ultimately chose UTEP. Clauss attributed his decision to join the Miners to the presence of Defensive Line Coach Kenechi Udeze, whose coaching prowess and mentorship played a pivotal role in sealing the deal.

Clauss's signing represents another positive addition to the UTEP defense as the team focuses on strengthening their roster. With his impressive physical attributes and outstanding performance on the field, the edge rusher brings an intimi****** presence to the team. Last season, Clauss recorded an impressive 13.5 sacks, ranking third in the state while helping his team reach the state semifinals.

The opportunity to work with Coach Udeze was a major factor in Clauss's decision, as he believes the experienced coach can help take his game to the next level. Udeze is known for his ability to develop talent and refine players' skills, making him an appealing mentor for aspiring defensive linemen.

Expressing his enthusiasm about Clauss joining the Miners, Coach Udeze stated, "We are thrilled to add Alec to our program. He is an exceptional athlete with a high motor and a relentless pursuit of the ball. I'm excited to coach him and help him further refine his skills. Alec has all the tools to make a significant impact on our defense, and we are fortunate to have him on our team."

Clauss's commitment to UTEP marks a significant step forward for the program. The signing of the talented edge rusher demonstrates the team's commitment to bolstering their defense and recruiting top-tier talent. As Clauss prepares to embark on his collegiate career with the Miners, UTEP looks forward to his contributions on the field and the positive influence he will bring to the program