LOGAN, Utah – Utah State head coach Bronco Mendenhall and senior running back Javen Jacobs are nominees for the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, it was announced Monday.
The Allstate AFCA Good Works Team recognizes college football student-athletes and coaches who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service, academics and athletics. Established in 1992 and presented by Allstate since 2008, the program honors coaches and players who use their platforms to strengthen communities and support causes important to them.
Mendenhall, who is in his second year as USU's head football coach, is entering his 20th season as a collegiate head coach and has the fourth-most wins among active coaches in college football with a 146-95 record.
Throughout his career, Mendenhall has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to developing the complete student-athlete by placing equal emphasis on community service, academic excellence and athletic achievement. His programs have consistently fostered a culture of accountability, leadership and service, encouraging players to make a meaningful difference both on campus and within the communities they represent. Under Mendenhall, USU's football program has posted the highest team grade point average in program history in each of the last two semesters.
Mendenhall's commitment to service extends well beyond the football field, as he consistently invests in the communities he serves. Throughout his coaching career, he has shared messages of faith, leadership and purpose while speaking at numerous LDS firesides, using those opportunities to encourage and inspire youth and families. At Utah State, he has continued that community-first approach by supporting local organizations, including the USU Club Rodeo team, demonstrating his belief in uplifting all students and strengthening the broader Aggie community. Mendenhall's willingness to give his time and influence reflects his genuine desire to make a positive impact far beyond wins and losses.
Jacobs, a native of Chandler, Ariz. (Saguaro HS/New Mexico), has played in 35 career games, including 13 at Utah State in his first year with the Aggies in 2025.
Jacobs is actively involved in community outreach in Cache Valley. Some of the many endeavors he volunteers for include:
- Thursday Hero: Honoring Local Heroes
- Aggies Led Elementary Pen Pal Program
- Financial Literacy Workshop with Renaissance Financial
- Family Fun Day community engagement initiatives
- USU Football Service & Development programming
- Easter Service projects
- Food insecurity and backpack support initiatives
- Leadership, wellness, and student-athlete development programming
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