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4h ago

UTEP Names Malachi Nelson Starting QB for Season Opener

The former No. 1 recruit earned the job in fall camp over incumbent Skyler Locklear.

Nov 2, 2024; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Malachi Singleton (3) passes in the fourth quarter against the Ole Miss Rebels at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mississippi won 63-31. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images/ File Photo
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UTEP sophomore quarterback Malachi Nelson (7) pulls down his jersey befor spring practice at the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas, on Friday, April 4, 2025. © Gaby Velasquez/ El Paso Times / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Nelson will make his first college start at Utah State on Aug. 30.
  • UTEP informed him Thursday morning that he won the job, per ESPN, following expanded first‑team reps and visible growth in camp.
  • The ex–five-star prospect transferred to UTEP after stints at USC in 2023 and Boise State in 2024 and has three years of eligibility remaining.
  • His college playing time has been limited, with one appearance at USC and three at Boise State, where he went 12-of-17 for 128 yards with one interception.
  • UTEP, which finished 3-9 last season under second-year coach Scotty Walden, visits Texas in Week 3 in a matchup that will feature fellow 2023 blue‑chip quarterback Arch Manning.