ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – It’s been three years since Isaiah Chavez played quarterback for the UNM football team. Whether it be due to injuries or a lack of faith from his previous coaching regime, Chavez’ collegiate career has been a bumpy road.
After starting the final two games of the 2020 season as a walk-on from Rio Rancho High School, Chavez led UNM to two victories and was rewarded with a scholarship. He saw more action in the 2021 season, but did not take the field either in 2022 or 2023.
Since the arrival of Bronco Mendenhall and a new coaching staff, Chavez has been given a fresh start. He says that his playing style is better suited towards coach Beck’s scheme, and he has actually been given reps in practice.
“He’s not Taysom Hill from BYU, but he’s Taysom Hill-ish in terms of how he approaches the game,” said Mendenhall. “I say that as a compliment to Isaiah. I love being around him, he’s just so much fun to have on our team, he’s tough. So, really good influence.”
“It was new to me because I haven’t gotten reps in a while,” Chavez said. “It’s huge for me to come back and at least get some reps, something is better than nothing. Every day I try to get more and every day I reach for higher goals, so obviously trying to get more reps, be the best mentor I can be to Devon (Dampier).”
Throughout Chavez’ journey, he gathered a wealth of knowledge from all aspects of the game. It something that benefits the current locker room, and possibly the sideline in the future.
“Isaiah is an excellent leader and dynamic personality and he would make an excellent coach,” Mendenhall said.
“For me being the older guy, I’ve officially reached the “unc-status” as the younger people would say,” said Chavez. “So for me, it’s about teaching them whatever I know, because whatever knowledge I can give them will make them better, I’m doing my job.”
Now entering his redshirt senior season, Chavez knows the clock is ticking on his time in cherry and silver. He has one goal in mind and he feels a heightened sense of urgency to achieve it.
“Our team needs to win, our team needs to get to a bowl game. Unfortunately since I’ve been here, we have not been to one. For us, for me, it’s winning. As long as I get to see the team succeed and be an impactful player, whether it’s on the sideline, whether it’s on the field. We need to win. That’s my goal.”
