Utah State enters its first Pac-12 season under second-year head coach Bronco Mendenhall at 2-4 overall and 1-1 in conference play after a nonconference slate that included an FCS upset loss to Idaho State, narrow defeats at Washington and Utah, a win over Troy, a loss at Boise State, and a 17-16 home victory over Washington State. The offense ranks near the bottom nationally in scoring and yards, hampered by inconsistent quarterback play between McCae Hillstead and Grady Brosterhous, a porous offensive line allowing frequent sacks, and limited rushing production led by Javen Jacobs. The defense has performed more credibly in recent games, supporting field position and turnovers. Remaining schedule features winnable home matchups against Colorado State and Fresno State alongside road tests at Texas State, San Diego State, and Oregon State, with roster depth and Mendenhall’s experience providing a foundation for late-season improvement amid the conference transition.