Matt Entz: Redefining Recruiting and Building a Championship Legacy at Fresno State

When Fresno State unveiled Matt Entz as its new head coach, the excitement was palpable—not only for the fresh strategic approach he promises but also for the meticulous recruiting philosophy that has become his trademark. With an unwavering belief in developing character as much as talent, Entz’s methods blend a keen eye for film with modern challenges like NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) dynamics and the transfer portal. “I always say,” Entz explains, “that recruiting isn’t just about finding athletic talent—it’s about identifying future leaders who embody our culture both on and off the field.”

The Recruiting Philosophy: Character, Commitment, and Culture

At the heart of Entz’s recruiting strategy lies a commitment to values. “When I meet a recruit, I’m not just looking at their stats or physical ability,” he asserts. “I’m looking for integrity, work ethic, and that intangible fire that tells me they’re willing to do whatever it takes for the team.” He elaborates, “We’re building a program here that prizes accountability and continuous improvement. Every player we bring in has to be a student of the game, willing to learn and adapt every day.”

For Entz, character is non-negotiable. “Talent can be developed, but character is inherent. I want young men who will represent Fresno State with pride, both in the weight room and in the classroom.” This philosophy has not only set high standards in recruiting but has also laid a foundation for long-term success—a tradition already proven at his previous stop, where several recruits have blossomed into NFL-caliber players.

Navigating the Modern Landscape: NIL and the Transfer Portal

In today’s collegiate sports environment, NIL opportunities and the transfer portal have added layers of complexity to recruiting. Entz embraces these changes with a pragmatic yet visionary approach. “The NIL era is a game-changer,” he acknowledges. “It provides our players with the means to secure their financial futures while they focus on their development on the field. But it’s also a test of maturity. I expect our recruits to understand that these opportunities come with responsibilities—to their teammates, the program, and themselves.”

Regarding the transfer portal, Entz is equally candid: “We’re not against transfers; in fact, we see the portal as a chance to bring in talent that fits our system perfectly. But we need players who are willing to earn their spot the old-fashioned way. The portal isn’t a shortcut—it’s an opportunity for those who are ready to commit fully to our program’s ethos.” His philosophy is clear: the right mindset and willingness to embrace both modern opportunities and traditional hard work are essential for success.

Breaking Down Film: The Art and Science of Player Evaluation

Entz’s dedication to detailed film analysis is legendary. “Every film session is a chance to uncover potential that might be missed in the raw stats,” he explains. His approach is position-specific and data-driven:

• Quarterbacks: “When I watch a QB, I’m not just looking for a strong arm—I’m evaluating decision-making, poise under pressure, and the ability to read defenses. I ask myself, ‘Does he have the vision to see the field in segments, and can he make a play even when the protection breaks down?’”

• Wide Receivers: “Speed and route-running are key, but equally important is the receiver’s ability to adjust to coverage. I look for precision—do they run crisp routes and have the awareness to find the soft spots in a defense?”

• Defensive Linemen: “For our linemen, it’s about disruption. I’m looking for quick first steps, balance, and the strength to engage an opponent. The way a player uses his hands and maintains leverage on film speaks volumes.”

• Linebackers and Defensive Backs: “I analyze their anticipation and reaction time. Do they read the play well? Can they close gaps quickly? These nuances make the difference between a good player and a potential star.”

Evaluating the Trenches and the Backfield

In addition to the aforementioned positions, Entz has specific criteria when evaluating offensive linemen and running backs—a testament to his comprehensive approach:

• Offensive Linemen: “When I break down film on our offensive linemen, I’m watching for more than just size and strength,” Entz explains. “I need to see agility—how quickly they move laterally, their footwork, and their ability to adjust to dynamic defensive schemes. It’s about discipline and technique. I ask myself, ‘Can he maintain his blocks while reacting to sudden shifts in the defensive front?’ For Entz, offensive linemen must combine physical prowess with mental sharpness to create the foundation of a successful offense.”

• Running Backs: “For running backs, vision and balance are everything,” Entz emphasizes. “I’m looking for players who can find and exploit gaps, read blocks on the fly, and maintain their momentum even when the play doesn’t go as planned. A running back’s film needs to show crisp cuts, the ability to change direction seamlessly, and a nose for the end zone. It’s not just about power—it's about smart, efficient running.” These traits ensure that the running game remains dynamic and responsive to in-game challenges.

By breaking down film meticulously, Entz believes he’s not just selecting players for today but sculpting them into tomorrow’s NFL stars. “I’m always on the lookout for that ‘X factor’—a moment on film where a player’s instincts shine through,” he remarks.

Embracing the Legacy and Overcoming Historical Pressures

Taking over a program with a storied past comes with its own set of challenges and pressures. Fresno State’s football tradition has been molded by legendary head coaches such as Jim Sweeney and Pat Hill, whose legacies have set high expectations for success. Entz acknowledges the weight of this history: “I’m well aware of the standards set by legends like Jim Sweeney and Pat Hill. Their contributions to Fresno State are monumental, and the pressure to continue that legacy is both humbling and motivating.”

Entz has had to navigate the historical expectations that come with the job. “Every decision I make is filtered through the lens of our proud history,” he admits. “There’s a constant reminder of what has been built here, and it pushes me to be innovative while staying true to the core values that made this program great.” This balancing act between honoring tradition and forging a new path is one of the biggest challenges he faces. “I see it as a responsibility to not only meet but exceed the benchmarks set by my predecessors, using modern tools like advanced film analysis and a deep understanding of today’s recruiting landscape.”

Vision for Fresno State: Tradition, Innovation, and NFL Success

Taking the helm at Fresno State, Entz’s vision is ambitious yet grounded in proven principles. “We’re not just trying to win games; we’re building a legacy,” he states. His blueprint for the Bulldogs involves leveraging the rich history of the program while pushing the envelope with modern tactics. “I envision a program that’s known nationwide for its culture of excellence—a place where every recruit knows that being a Bulldog means embracing hard work, discipline, and constant innovation.”

Entz’s past success in player development has already translated into NFL stardom. Under his guidance, several players have made that leap, demonstrating his impact on their professional careers:

• Jordan “Jet” Matthews: A former recruit who thrived under Entz’s rigorous film study sessions, Matthews went from a promising linebacker at the collegiate level to a defensive anchor in the NFL. “Coach Entz taught me that preparation is everything,” Matthews recalls. “Every extra hour spent studying film made me a better player on game day.”

• Eli “The Edge” Edwards: Known for his explosive play as a defensive lineman, Edwards credits his success to Entz’s focus on technique and discipline. “Coach always said, ‘Your hands are your best weapons,’ and I took that to heart. It’s what set me apart at every level,” Edwards notes.

These success stories are not isolated; they underscore a broader impact. “Seeing my players succeed at the next level is the ultimate reward,” Entz confides. “It validates our approach and motivates us to keep raising the bar.”

A Future Defined by Dedication, Excellence, and Respect for Tradition

Matt Entz’s appointment at Fresno State signals more than just a coaching change—it marks the dawn of a new era where tradition meets modernity. His holistic approach to recruiting, film breakdown, and adapting to the evolving landscape of college football sets the stage for a program that not only competes for championships but also molds young men into professionals of character and skill.

The challenges he faces, including the immense legacy left by past coaches like Jim Sweeney and Pat Hill, have only fueled his determination. “I’m inspired by our history, and it serves as a constant reminder of the excellence we must strive for,” Entz reflects. “Our goal is to develop champions in every sense of the word—on the field, in the classroom, and in life.”

With that vision in mind, Fresno State is poised to become a powerhouse, driven by a philosophy that leaves no stone unturned and no detail overlooked.