Reviving Nevada Football: Jeff Choate’s Vision to Restore Success to a Historic Program

Jeff Choate, the head coach of the Nevada Wolf Pack football team, has a clear and focused plan to restore the program to its former glory—the days when Coach Chris Ault led Nevada to multiple conference championships and consistent bowl appearances. Choate’s philosophy combines respect for the past with strategic adaptations to the modern landscape of college football. His vision centers on building a winning culture, excelling in recruiting, and developing players both on and off the field.

Building a Winning Culture

Choate is committed to instilling a culture of toughness, accountability, and resilience—key pillars of Nevada’s past successes under Coach Ault.

• Quote: "We’re building a foundation on toughness, accountability, and resilience. The days of being a one-hit wonder are over. We’re going to create sustained success and get back to competing for championships."

  
  

  Ault’s teams were known for their hard-nosed, disciplined play, and Choate is focused on reigniting that mentality. His teams will be built on hard work, and every player will be expected to contribute to the team-first philosophy that propelled Nevada to greatness.

Revitalizing Recruiting and Player Development

Choate understands that recruiting is the lifeblood of any program, and he has crafted a strategy to build Nevada back into a powerhouse.

• Quote: "We’re going to recruit the right kind of guys—guys who love the game, who are hungry for success, and who will elevate the program in every aspect."

  
  

  He places a significant emphasis on local recruiting, looking for players who understand the unique culture of Northern Nevada, while also scouting nationally to find hidden gems. Choate knows that the players who thrive in his system are those with the right attitude—those who embrace a hard-working, selfless approach to the game.

Additionally, Choate is dedicated to developing players not only on the field but also in the weight room, in academics, and mentally. By fostering all-around growth, he hopes to build a program where athletes are prepared to step into roles immediately, much like the players who succeeded under Ault.

Tactical and Strategic Adaptations

While Choate respects the traditions that made Nevada football successful under Ault, he is pragmatic about adapting to modern football trends.

• Quote: "Coach Ault built something special here, but we also have to evolve with the game. It's about balance—being able to move the ball effectively in today’s game and being aggressive on defense. I want us to be explosive, but I also want us to dominate the line of scrimmage and control the game."

  
  

  Choate’s system focuses on a versatile offensive scheme, capable of keeping pace with modern football’s emphasis on speed and passing while retaining the physicality and toughness that defined Ault's teams. Defensively, Choate intends to bring a hard-hitting, aggressive approach that will overwhelm opponents and help elevate Nevada back to championship contention.

Improving Facilities and Player Support

A critical part of Choate’s plan to restore Nevada football is upgrading the program’s facilities and providing world-class support for the athletes.

• Quote: "Facilities are a huge part of recruitment. We need to have the best facilities to compete at the highest level. But we also need to ensure that our athletes have all the support they need to succeed on and off the field."

  
  

  Choate understands that modern college football is highly competitive, and to draw top talent, Nevada must offer state-of-the-art facilities, as well as a comprehensive support system that nurtures student-athletes both academically and emotionally. This holistic approach ensures the players are well-rounded and equipped to succeed in all areas of their lives.

Leveraging NIL and the Transfer Portal

In the current landscape, Choate is also addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by NIL and the transfer portal. While some programs are relying heavily on these tools, Choate maintains a long-term focus on building a strong foundation.

• Quote: "NIL and the transfer portal are part of the landscape now, but they can’t replace the fundamentals. We’re going to use these tools wisely, but our focus remains on creating a foundation built on long-term success."

  
  

  While Choate sees the value in using the transfer portal and NIL to bolster the program, his primary focus is on sustainable player development and ensuring recruits fit the program’s culture. He plans to blend the best of both worlds—attracting talent through the portal, but still prioritizing the development of homegrown athletes who are invested in the program’s future.

What Choate Looks for on Film

Choate’s recruiting evaluation is thorough and tailored to each position. His film breakdown focuses not only on athletic ability but also on character and football IQ.

• Quarterbacks: Choate looks for poise under pressure, accuracy, and the ability to make the right reads.

• Running Backs: He values vision, explosiveness, and versatility, including receiving and blocking ability.

• Receivers: Choate focuses on route precision, hands, and blocking, aiming to find playmakers who excel in critical moments.

• Offensive Line: He evaluates toughness, technique, and footwork, particularly in run blocking and pass protection.

• Defensive Line: Choate prioritizes explosiveness, hand technique, and relentlessness.

• Linebackers: Instincts, tackling, and coverage ability are key traits Choate seeks.

• Defensive Backs: Versatility, ball skills, and high football IQ are essential for cornerbacks and safeties.

• Special Teams: Effort, fundamentals, and reliability are the key attributes Choate values in special teams players.

  

  
  

  Conclusion

Jeff Choate’s plan to restore Nevada football to its former success is centered on a combination of respect for the past and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in today’s ever-evolving college football landscape. By fostering a winning culture, focusing on strategic recruiting, and ensuring player development at every level, Choate is laying the groundwork for a program that will compete for championships once again. While he embraces new tools like NIL and the transfer portal, Choate remains committed to the fundamentals—just as Coach Ault did—building a foundation that will drive Nevada football to long-term success.