Alex Conn’s journey to becoming a key player on the University of Wyoming’s offensive line has been anything but ordinary. As a junior who recently transferred from Iowa Western Community College, he faced immediate challenges and opportunities when he was thrust into the action during a critical moment of the game against Air Force. The loss of starting left guard Wes King due to a knee injury forced Conn to step up quickly, and he did so with determination and poise.

As the Cowboys faced a pivotal fourth-and-1 situation at the goal line, Conn was acutely aware of the stakes. “We had to score,” he recalled. “So, I was going to do everything I could to not let my teammates down and to make sure we got into the end zone.” His effort paid off; Conn helped secure the line of scrimmage, paving the way for quarterback Evan Svoboda to rush for a crucial touchdown. This moment was significant not only for Conn personally but for the entire team, as it marked the beginning of a second-half surge that led to Wyoming’s first victory of the season.

For Conn, celebrating a win was a new experience, as it was his first since joining the Cowboys. “It was definitely different for me,” he said, reflecting on the team’s post-game tradition of singing “Ragtime Cowboy Joe.” This rite of passage was special for him, symbolizing his acceptance into the team and the satisfaction that comes with achieving a shared goal.

The offensive line was under pressure that day, not only because of King’s injury but also due to Jack Walsh’s absence from the lineup due to an upper body injury. With backup Rex Johnsen starting at right guard alongside Conn, both players faced the challenge head-on. Together, they were instrumental in turning the tide against Air Force, helping the Cowboys dominate in total yardage and time of possession in the second half. They outgained the Falcons 278 to 103, a stark contrast to the struggles the team faced earlier in the season.

“(Conn and Johnsen) stepped up big time,” Svoboda noted, emphasizing the trust he had in his offensive line. “They killed it, and they busted their butts that whole game.” The impact of Conn’s performance resonated with his teammates, showcasing his readiness to contribute when the team needed it most.

Conn’s path to this moment was marked by perseverance. Growing up in Derby, Kansas, he began his college football career at the University of Nebraska. After a redshirt season and a year without playing time, he transferred to Iowa Western, where he could hone his skills and gain valuable experience. His hard work caught the attention of Wyoming’s coaching staff, particularly offensive line coach Joe Tripodi, who recognized Conn’s potential and shared similar values. “It was nice to see someone that held similar values to me,” Conn said about Tripodi. “He was straight up with me, and I really respected that.”

Tripodi’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of consistent effort, and he praised Conn for his development and readiness to seize opportunities. “He played really hard against Air Force,” Tripodi said. The coach highlighted that participation in special teams provided Conn with vital game experience, helping him build confidence and hone his skills even in roles that may seem peripheral to his primary duties on the offensive line.

Initially, Conn began the season as a backup tackle, but due to injuries and team needs, he shifted to left guard. The transition was smoothed by the leadership present within the offensive line, especially during a rough start to the season with four consecutive losses. Instead of fracturing under the pressure, the offensive line responded positively, coming together to improve their practices and game performance. Conn felt the effect of this camaraderie on the field, noting, “It was nice seeing everyone just working together, and everything was just flowing.”

The Cowboys showcased their best offensive production during the second half against Air Force, and Conn felt the mental shift among the players. “I was just waiting for my opportunity to get on the field and show everybody what I can do,” he expressed. The newfound energy and collaboration among teammates signaled a turning point for the Cowboys, offering a glimpse of what the season could hold if they continued to build on this momentum.

With King’s injury not expected to be season-ending, Conn now stands at a crossroads. He views this as an opportunity to cement his place in the lineup, proving that he can rise to the occasion whenever called upon. “I enjoy being a part of anything to help the team win,” he said. His commitment to personal improvement and team success is evident as he expresses a desire to contribute meaningfully in upcoming games.

Looking ahead, Conn is focused on capitalizing on this experience. The Cowboys are set to face San Diego State after a bye week, and Conn is eager to continue his growth and help his team secure more wins. “I would like to win the rest of our games and continue to improve,” he stated, underscoring his determination to be a positive force for the Cowboys.

The journey for Alex Conn is still unfolding, but his recent performance has already set a foundation for success. As a player who has faced adversity and adapted to new challenges, he embodies the resilience needed in collegiate football. The opportunity to showcase his skills in front of a supportive fan base at War Memorial Stadium excites him. Each game is a chance to not only contribute to the team’s success but also to further develop as a player and leader.

Conn’s experience serves as an inspiring example for his teammates, demonstrating that hard work, adaptability, and a willingness to seize opportunities can lead to success. As the Cowboys prepare for the rest of the season, they will look to build on the positive momentum generated in the second half against Air Force. With players like Conn stepping up and embodying the team’s spirit, there’s hope for a turnaround.

In the competitive landscape of the Mountain West Conference, every game becomes a vital part of the team’s journey. Conn’s contributions will be crucial as the Cowboys look to turn their season around. As they gather momentum, the collective goal remains clear: to win games, support one another, and ultimately achieve their aspirations in the face of challenges.

For Alex Conn, the thrill of playing time on Wyoming’s offensive line represents not just a personal achievement but a significant chapter in his football journey. It’s about contributing to something larger than himself—a team, a community, and a legacy of perseverance. The commitment to teamwork, resilience in adversity, and the desire to make an impact will drive Conn and his teammates as they take the field for their upcoming battles, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead with determination and unity. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Conn and the Cowboys, eager to witness how their journey unfolds.