ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On Saturday, New Mexico announced the hiring of Jason Eck, who recently served as the head coach of the Idaho football team, to take the helm of the Lobos. This decision comes just a day after Eck’s Vandals were eliminated from the FCS playoffs.

Eck, 47, crafted a successful tenure at Idaho, finishing with a record of 26 wins and 13 losses over three seasons. His leadership guided the Vandals to playoff berths each year, culminating in a 10-4 record this season, which came to an end after a 52-19 loss against Montana State in the FCS quarterfinals.

“I am truly humbled to be selected as the head coach of the New Mexico Lobos,” Eck expressed in a statement. He further acknowledged the enthusiasm surrounding the program, stating his eagerness to bring success to the university community, students, alumni, and all supporters in Albuquerque and beyond.

Eck’s predecessor, Bronco Mendenhall, departed for Utah State, a rival from the Mountain West Conference, after completing a single season with a overall record of 5-7 and 3-4 in conference play.

New Mexico athletic director Fernando Lovo shared his excitement about Eck’s appointment, asserting, “I am thrilled to have Jason Eck as our next head football coach. Jason has led Idaho to tremendous success, turning around the program and building upon success year after year, through recruiting, teaching, and a strong culture.”

Before taking the reins at Idaho, Eck spent six seasons as an assistant coach at South Dakota State, with the last three spent as the offensive coordinator. In addition to his experience at South Dakota State and Idaho, the former Wisconsin offensive lineman has held coaching positions at a variety of schools, including Montana State, Minnesota State, Western Illinois, Hampton, Ball State, and Winona State.