New team and coaches among MWC changes

Utah's run of perfection did more than just put the Utes on the map last season. It also benefited the Mountain West Conference — and not just financially.

"I think it's helped our league image dramatically," said New Mexico coach Rocky Long, who is far from satisfied with where things stood at season's end. "I'm just really disappointed that the powers to be in the BCS didn't really jump up there and put them against Auburn or something."

Despite being 11-0, the Utes were relegated to facing a subpar Pittsburgh team in the Fiesta Bowl. USC, Oklahoma and Auburn were the other unbeaten teams entering the bowl season.

"In my opinion Utah, last year, could have played with any of those guys and had a legitimate chance to beat them," Long said. "I'm guessing that none of those guys wanted to play them either."

Only time will tell if things are different in 2005. Changes have been plentiful in the MWC. Expansion has brought TCU into the mix and three teams have new head coaches. Kyle Whittingham replaces Urban Meyer as Utah eyes a third consecutive league championship. Bronco Mendenhall steps in for Gary Crowton at BYU and former Ute offensive coordinator Mike Sanford is the new boss at UNLV in the wake of John Robinson's retirement.

AIR FORCE (5-6, 3-4)

The Falcons are in the midst of a dry spell. Longtime coach Fisher DeBerry has never missed out on three consecutive bowl seasons.

Returning starters: 12 — seven on offense, five on defense. Key returnees: Quarterback Shaun Carney and offensive lineman Jon Wilson. Offense: The Falcons return their entire offensive line. A lack of experience, however, exists at the skill positions. Defense: AFA has some key holes to fill with the graduation of all three starting linebackers and both defensive ends. Special teams: Senior punter Danny Heaton had a MWC-record 90-yard kick against Utah last season. Nonconference opponents: Washington, Navy, Army. Pivotal MWC stretch: Back-to-back games at Utah and Colorado State in September.

BYU (5-6, 4-3)

A favorable schedule could have BYU rising and shouting about a conference title and a bowl bid for the first time since 2001.