Enter Scotty Walden
Scotty Walden, the 34-year-old coach, was hired to take over a floundering UTEP program at the end of the 2023 season. Walden’s was hired away from Austin Peay, after four seasons being the head coach there. Over four seasons, Walden compiled a respectable record of 26-14, including going 9-3 in his final season but losing in the first round of the FSC playoffs. UTEP, hot off firing Dana Dimel, for only winning more than 3 games twice in five years, lured Walden to take over a program that has only had 7 winning seasons in the last 50 years. You read that right.
Walden’s coaching philosophy could easily be characterized as energetic and motivational. Walden is the type of coach who will have team believing (and accomplishing) far and above its weight. This was evident to many Miner fans throughout spring workouts and the spring game as there appeared to be a renewed sense of optimism around the UTEP program.
The Transformation of UTEP Under Walden
The transformation of the UTEP program is going to be no small undertaking. Walden came in and brought in 14 Transfers, including 8 from Austin Peay. Included in that was his starting QB, Skylear Locklear who will battle UTEP starting QB from 2023 Cade McConnell. Walden has made it clear that at this point, Locklear and McConnell and neck and neck and he can win with either one of them. Walden also signed an impressive high school class in 2023, one of which many consider to be one of the best freshman classes in school history. Walden is a firm believer that he can draw talent to the Sun City, whereas it’s been thought for years that in state Texas talent would not be able to be recruiting to El Paso. He has quickly already proven that to be a falsehood.
Beyond the quarterback duel, several other key players stand out as potential game-changers for UTEP. Transfers like wide receiver Jordan Francis and linebacker Malik Turner are expected to make immediate impacts. Francis’s speed and agility provide a deep threat for the offense, while Turner’s tackling prowess will be crucial in fortifying the defense. In the trenches, offensive lineman Trent Harrison and defensive end Greg Lewis are set to anchor their respective units, bringing experience and physicality to the table.
Walden’s plan for UTEP prominently features the implementation of an up-tempo air raid offense, a scheme he has successfully leveraged in his previous coaching stints. This offensive strategy focuses on a fast-paced, high-volume passing game designed to exploit defensive weaknesses and generate substantial yardage. The introduction of the air raid scheme is expected to drastically alter the Miners’ dynamics on the field, encouraging a more aggressive and electrifying style of play. UTEP believes it has some “dudes” in the receiving room and that starts with Tyrin Smith. Jeremiah Ballard is another receiver that many in El Paso believe will break out alongside Smith this year.
Expectations for the UTEP vs. Nebraska Game
The UTEP Miners started Nebraska Cornhuskers preparation today (18 Aug 24), with a full scrimmage to mimic what they think they will get out of the Huskers. The did everything exactly how they plan to on 31 Aug. From the pregame meal to the time the scrimmage started. They are taking this first game very seriously. And frankly, Nebraska better be as well. Walden left today’s scrimmage feeling very good about how they performed. He said the offense moved the ball well, up tempo and both QB’s showed extreme promise. He said the defense had its moments as well, all though he noted they started off sluggish. Both QB’s had rushing touchdowns during the scrimmage as well. One thing Husker nation better believe, UTEP WILL COME INTO MEMORIAL STADIUM ON 31 AUG 24 BELIEVING THEY CAN PULL OFF THE UPSET.
Nebraska cannot look too forward ahead to the ever important Colorado game. We can’t start the season 0-1. Heck, I would argue we cant ever start the season 1-0 with a shaky win over UTEP as the confidence going into Colorado is paramount. Nebraska needs to be locked as they start UTEP prep this week and be ready. Walden is going to go uptempo. The QB’s have the ability to escape the pocket. They have receivers who can make some noise. So enter Nebraska’s questionable secondary. Will Blye Hill be healthy and ready? Is Ceyair Wright prepared to make a start? I dont have concerns about the defensive line or linebackers, but the defensive backs lack key experience and showed weakness during the spring game. They will need to come in locked in, and need to take the ball away on defense (something that was painfully lacking last year). The team needs to come out and make a statement, and they can not start slow. If they do, I fear 31 Aug 24 will be a frustrating day for many Husker fans.
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