UTEP is entering a new era in the Mountain West, and with it comes a new group of conference rivals.
Before the Miners take the field this fall, we’re scouting the programs they’ll battle every season. From football traditions to championship cultures, here’s what every UTEP fan should know about the first six members of the conference.
Air Force Falcons
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Signature Sport: Football
Air Force has become nationally recognized for its disciplined style of football and its triple option offense, forcing opponents to prepare differently than they do all season.
Representing the United States Air Force Academy, the Falcons have built a culture centered on discipline, leadership, and accountability.
What They’re Known For
- Triple option offense
- Military discipline
- Consistent bowl appearances
Colorado State Rams
Location: Fort Collins, Colorado
Signature Sport: Volleyball
Colorado State has quietly built one of the Mountain West’s most balanced athletic departments. The Rams have experienced success across several sports while continuing to invest heavily in athletics, highlighted by Canvas Stadium.
What They’re Known For
- Strong volleyball tradition
- Modern athletic facilities
- Consistent athletic success
Nevada Wolf Pack
Location: Reno, Nevada
Signature Sport: Men’s Basketball
Nevada has enjoyed memorable success in both football and basketball. Multiple NCAA Tournament appearances have helped establish the Wolf Pack as one of the conference’s premier basketball programs.
What They’re Known For
- Basketball tradition
- Competitive football
- Tough road environment
UNLV Rebels
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Signature Sport: Men’s Basketball
Located in one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities, UNLV benefits from a talent-rich recruiting area. The Rebels remain synonymous with their historic basketball success while continuing to invest in football.
What They’re Known For
- Historic basketball tradition
- Recruiting advantages
- Allegiant Stadium
Wyoming Cowboys
Location: Laramie, Wyoming
Signature Sport: Football
Wyoming embraces its identity as one of the toughest programs in the conference. War Memorial Stadium’s elevation and the Cowboys’ physical style of play make every trip to Laramie a challenge.
What They’re Known For
- Physical football
- High-altitude home field advantage
- Passionate fan base
New Mexico Lobos
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Signature Sport: Men’s Basketball
UTEP fans know the Lobos well. With conference play returning, the rivalry becomes even more meaningful. New Mexico’s athletic identity has long been centered around basketball and the legendary atmosphere inside The Pit.
What They’re Known For
- The Pit
- Basketball tradition
- Longstanding rivalry with UTEP
Looking Ahead
This is only Part 1.
Next, we’ll scout Hawai’i, Northern Illinois, North Dakota State, Grand Canyon, UC Davis, and San José State before wrapping up our look at UTEP’s new conference rivals. As the Miners begin their Mountain West journey, understanding the programs they’ll face is just the first step.
