A shift from FCS to FBS is underway in the landscape of college football, as Jason Eck, the architect of one of the most remarkable turnarounds in FCS history at the University of Idaho, has been named the head coach of the University of New Mexico Lobos.
Eck brings a proven record of winning, player development, and program transformation to Albuquerque.
A veteran coach with 26 years of experience at the FBS, FCS and Division II levels, Eck has led the Idaho Vandals to three straight playoff berths in the FCS, including the quarterfinals the past two seasons.
In the 22 years prior to his arrival, the Vandals totaled just two winning seasons. Additionally, Idaho increased its win total each season under Eck.
Eck brings a proven record of winning, player development, and program transformation to Albuquerque.
“I am thrilled to have Jason Eck as our next head football coach,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Fernando Lovo. “Jason has not only turned Idaho into a perennial contender but has done so with an unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of his student-athletes.
His ability to build winning programs and inspire excellence is exactly what we need to elevate Lobo Football to unprecedented heights.”
In just three years at Idaho, Eck revitalized a program that had experienced only two winning seasons in the past 22 years.
Under his leadership, the Vandals secured three consecutive FCS playoff berths, reaching the quarterfinals in the last two seasons.
Each year under Eck’s guidance saw Idaho improve, culminating in a 10-4 campaign in 2024 that included victories over two Mountain West opponents, Wyoming and Nevada, along with a narrow loss to then-undefeated No. 1 Oregon.
Before taking the helm at Idaho, Jason Eck enjoyed six successful seasons at South Dakota State, initially as the offensive line coach and later as the offensive coordinator for his final three years.
In 2019, he earned national recognition as the American Football Coaches Association FCS Assistant Coach of the Year.
During his time at South Dakota State, Eck played a key role in guiding the Jackrabbits to three FCS semifinal appearances in four years and a spot in the national championship game during the spring 2021 season, which was impacted by COVID-19.
Eck’s career also includes a transformative stint at Montana State in 2015, where he served as the offensive line coach and run-game coordinator.
Under his guidance, the Bobcats ranked 18th in FCS rushing offense, 23rd in sacks allowed, and boasted an impressive third in scoring offense.
Before his tenure at Montana State, Eck was the offensive coordinator for Minnesota State-Mankato’s record-breaking offense, helping the Mavericks claim back-to-back Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference championships in 2013 and 2014.
Promoted to offensive coordinator in 2014, Eck led the team to the NCAA Division II Championship game, showcasing an offense ranked 14th nationally in rushing.
Eck’s extensive coaching background includes stops at Western Illinois (2012), Hampton (2011), Ball State (2009-2010), and Winona State (2007-2008).
He began his full-time coaching career with the Idaho Vandals in 2004, where he spent three seasons mentoring the offensive line.
A 1999 graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Eck participated in the Badgers’ 1998 Big Ten championship team, which concluded the season with a victory in the Rose Bowl.
His coaching journey began as a graduate assistant at Wisconsin under Hall of Fame coach Barry Alvarez, followed by a similar role at Colorado.
A Legacy of Transformation
Eck’s tenure in Idaho was characterized by his ability to surpass expectations. Taking over in 2022, he led the Vandals to a 7-5 record, highlighted by their first win over rival Montana since 1999 and a playoff berth.
In 2024, Jason Eck faced the daunting task of rebuilding Idaho’s offense after losing his starting quarterback and a staggering 81.5% of the team’s receptions and 82.7% of its receiving yards to graduation or the transfer portal.
Yet, Eck’s Vandals didn’t just survive—they thrived. Idaho posted a 10-4 record, reached the FCS Playoff quarterfinals for the second straight season, and notched another statement win over a Mountain West opponent.
The season kicked off with a near-upset of undefeated No. 1 Oregon, as the Vandals trailed just 17-14 late in the fourth quarter before falling 24-14.
Eck’s squad followed that performance with a gritty 17-13 road win over Wyoming in Laramie, securing their second Mountain West victory in as many seasons.
Despite losing their starting quarterback midseason, Idaho rallied to close the regular season on a five-game winning streak. Of their four losses, three came against teams ranked No. 1 in the polls, underscoring the Vandals’ resilience against top competition.
The 2023 season was impressive, with Gevani McCoy—a year removed from winning the Jerry Rice Award as the top freshman in the FCS—leading Idaho to a 9-4 record and a second-place finish in the Big Sky at 6-2.
The Vandals proved their mettle against FBS teams, narrowly losing to California 31-17 before dismantling Nevada 33-6 in Reno.
That win showcased Idaho’s dominance, as they outgained the Wolf Pack 463 to 266, allowing only two field goals. Against ranked opponents, the Vandals went 4-2 and advanced to the FCS Quarterfinals.
Under Eck’s leadership, Idaho once again ranked among the nation’s best in numerous categories, including passing efficiency (12th, 154.7), scoring offense (14th, 32.3), total defense (14th, 306.8), and red zone offense (4th, 92.6%).
The Vandals also excelled in special teams, ranking 3rd in punt returns (18.4), 7th in kickoff returns (24.2), and 11th in net punting (40.1), while controlling games with a time of possession mark of 33:48, third in the FCS.
With back-to-back seasons of national relevance, Jason Eck has cemented his reputation as a master strategist and program builder, positioning the Vandals as a perennial FCS contender.
In 2023, the Vandals elevated their performance, finishing with a 9-4 record and a dominant 33-6 victory over Nevada, culminating in another trip to the FCS quarterfinals.
The 2024 season showcased Eck’s resilience as the Vandals overcame significant roster turnover to post their best record to date, despite losing their starting quarterback mid-season.
On the field, Idaho’s success was fueled by an explosive offense and a disciplined defense.
Eck’s teams consistently ranked among the top in FCS in scoring, total defense, and time of possession, with standout players such as All-Americans Hayden Hatten and Marcus Harris excelling under his guidance.
Off the field, Eck’s recruiting prowess resulted in consecutive top-10 FCS recruiting classes, solidifying Idaho’s status
Bottom line is New Mexico hired a proven winner long history of winning