The Hive Sports

by: Joe Oliver

August 30th, 2025 – Logan, Utah: Utah State showed up and showed out in front of a lively crowd at Maverik Stadium on Saturday. The opening of the Bronco Mendenhall era ended with a resounding 28–16 victory over the UTEP Miners. The Aggies showcased a blend of big plays, opportunistic defense, and timely special teams execution that laid a foundation for optimism in a season ripe with potential. 

The game’s spark came in the first quarter, with freshman running back Miles Davis breaking loose for a game-changing 58-yard touchdown run. Quarterback Bryson Barnes, in his first season under Mendenhall, responded beautifully with a 52-yard strike to Broc Lane just before halftime, giving Utah State a 20–10 lead at the break. Barnes would punctuate the Aggies’ dominance in the third quarter with a 12-yard rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 28-10. 

Key Statistics: USU – UTEP

Total Yards 360 – 284

Passing Yards 233 – 181

Rushing Yards 127 – 103

First Downs 18 – 19

Third-Down (USU) 2-of-12 (17%)

Time of Possession 30:37 – 29:23

Utah State managed to outgain UTEP in both rushing and passing yardage, finishing with 360 total yards compared to UTEP’s 284. The Aggies exhibited balance on offense and stayed disciplined, committing zero turnovers—an encouraging sign early under a new coaching regime. 

Bronco Mendenhall showed composure on the sidelines.

Individually, Bryson Barnes completed 19 of 28 passes for 233 yards and a touchdown, adding a rushing score. Davis was a dual-threat star, recording 88 rushing yards and a receiving total of 61 yards—leading the team in both categories. Defensively, linebacker Noah Avinger tallied 11 tackles, and John Miller notched a sack. Kicker Tanner Rinker was perfect on field goals, converting from 49 and 28 yards. 

Utah State’s early-season strength lies in its explosiveness and defensive grit. The Aggies generated life-changing plays—Davis’s long run and Barnes’s deep ball to Lane—that punctuated their scoring opportunities. Special teams also played a quiet but critical role: Rinker’s field goals and strong punting created advantageous field position. 

Yet, there were areas needing attention. The offense struggled on third downs—converting just 2 of 12 attempts—and penalties lingered, drawing sharp criticism from analysts. These issues have persisted in the program and could undermine success if not addressed swiftly. 

Looking Ahead: A Promising Start in a New Era

This season opener marks more than just a win—it’s a statement that Mendenhall’s system is taking root. It’s Utah State’s first season-opening win against an FBS opponent since 2022, a positive omen as they prepare to face stiffer competition. 

Next up are road tests against Texas A&M, followed by a pivotal home matchup with Air Force on September 13. If the Aggies can string together consecutive wins, they’d be gunning for a 3–1 start—their best since 2021. Mendenhall’s regime has swiftly demonstrated potential, but the path ahead needs consistency, discipline, and continued defensive tenacity.

Utah State’s 28–16 win over UTEP wasn’t flawless, but it was affirming. With game-altering offense, stingy defense, and reliable special teams, the Aggies showed flashes of a team capable of exceeding preseason expectations. The early returns on Mendenhall’s leadership are encouraging. If Utah State can clean up the third-down inefficiency and curb penalties, they might be in store for an impactful season.

Photos by: Joe Oliver – IG: @iamjoeoliver