This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The college football world reacted with overwhelmingly positive thoughts on Friday after it was announced that BYU football coach Bronco Mendenhall was taking over at Virginia.
FOX Sports reporter Bruce Feldman tweeted that Mendenhall "blew folks away" in the Virginia interview process, while USA Today college football reporter Dan Wolken called the move "a damn good hire."
ESPN's Joe Schad tweeted that Virginia felt Mendenhall "has proven plan to win, is an excellent leader, plays tough and had success in environment w restrictions."
Former and current BYU players also wished the coach luck and lamented seeing him leave Provo.
Former BYU linebacker Cameron Jensen who played under Mendenhall from 2003-2006 tweeted: "Bronco was an incredible Coach. Sad to see him leave and know he will be successful at Virginia. Wish you the best Coach!!"
Former BYU quarterback John Beck tweeted: "Congrats @Bronco_BYU! @UVa_Football is getting a great coach & person."
Current wide receiver Mitch Mathews tweeted in all capital letters: "WE LOVE COACH MENDENHALL," while suspended current linebacker Sione Takitaki posted "Wish I could put that Y jersey on and play for coach 1 last time. Heart broken to hear the news."
Linebacker Harvey Langi tweeted a photo of himself standing next to Mendenhall on the field with the caption "Let's get one more for him."
Senior kicker Trevor Samson tweeted: "You inspired me, pushed me & challenged me, but above all else you believed in me! Thanks for the shot Coach!"
Former Virginia defensive end and current St. Louis Rams defensive end Chris Long reveled in the news, tweeting: "Love the hire. Additionally, I drove my 95 bronco to work this week for the first time all year. Didn't know a thing. No lie."
Current BYU recruit and Bingham High School quarterback Keaton Torre reaffirmed his commitment to the Cougars with a pair of tweets reading: "I've had an amazing opportunity getting to know Coach Mendenhall over the past couple months! I wish nothing but the best for him at UVA" and "With that being said I'm committed to Brigham Young University not Coach Mendenhall! Having him as my Coach was always just a HUGE bonus!"
As for Mendenhall, he took to social media Friday night for one final sentiment from the @Bronco_BYU account before his Twitter handle changes to reflect his new job.
"Thanks and gratitude to BYU, my players and Cougar Nation. You have changed my life!"
Twitter: @BrennanJSmith