Malachi Nelson News: Named Miners' starter

Nelson has won UTEP's quarterback competition, per Pete Thamel of ESPN.com.

Nelson was reported earlier this fall camp to be making a push for the starting role, and it appears he's had quite the preseason as he's locked down UTEP's starting quarterback gig, beating out returnee Skyler Locklear, who was considered the favorite to start just over a week ago. Nelson, who began his career at USC and spent the 2024 season as a backup with Boise State, tossed for 128 yards and one interception last year.