In the world of college football, loyalty and leadership are often undervalued, but not in the case of Andrew “Chop” Tank—an outstanding left tackle who has brought his talents to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) from the University of Arkansas. Tank, affectionately known as “Chop,” followed his former defensive coordinator Barry Odom, who is now the head coach of the UNLV Rebels, in search of a fresh start and new challenges. In doing so, he has not only revitalized his own career but is also helping to shape the history of UNLV’s football program.
Chop’s football journey began at the University of Arkansas, where he showed early promise as a skilled and dominant offensive lineman. At 6-foot-6 and over 300 pounds, Chop possessed the size, strength, and footwork that made him an ideal left tackle. His role at Arkansas was critical in protecting the quarterback’s blind side and paving the way for the Razorbacks’ rushing attack.
Under Barry Odom’s guidance, Chop developed a strong football IQ and a reputation for his relentless work ethic. However, despite his individual success, Arkansas went through its share of struggles, leading Chop to look for an opportunity to not only grow as a player but also make a lasting impact in a program on the rise. When Odom accepted the head coaching position at UNLV in December 2022, it marked the beginning of Chop’s transition from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) to the Mountain West Conference, signaling a new chapter in both of their careers.
For Chop, the decision to follow Odom to UNLV was rooted in a deep sense of trust and admiration for the coach who had played a pivotal role in his development. Odom, known for his defensive acumen and strong leadership, became a father figure to many of his players at Arkansas, and Chop was no exception. The opportunity to join Odom’s program at UNLV, where they could build something special together, was too good to pass up.
“I knew that if anyone could help me reach my full potential, it would be Coach Odom,” Chop said in a recent interview. “He believes in me, and I believe in what he’s trying to build here at UNLV. It’s more than just football—it’s about being part of something bigger.”
UNLV, historically not a powerhouse in college football, has been working to rebuild its program. With Odom’s experience and defensive mindset, and Chop’s talent anchoring the offensive line, the program is looking to rise in stature and compete for Mountain West championships. Chop’s presence has given the Rebels not only a formidable player on the field but also a leader in the locker room—a critical factor in turning a struggling team into a contender.
Chop’s impact on the field for the Rebels has been nothing short of transformative. Left tackles are often regarded as the backbone of any offense, protecting the quarterback’s blind side and handling some of the fiercest pass rushers in the game. In this role, Chop has excelled. His footwork, power, and football intelligence make him a perfect fit for the fast-paced, high-pressure environments that define college football.
Since transferring to UNLV, Chop has become a leader on the offensive line, a unit that has shown marked improvement since his arrival. The Rebels’ offense has seen a notable uptick in performance, with improved protection for the quarterback and more productive rushing yards thanks to Chop’s presence. The left tackle has helped solidify the team’s offense, allowing the Rebels to control the tempo and play with more confidence than in previous seasons.
Off the field, Chop has also embraced his role as a mentor to younger players. His work ethic and leadership style, cultivated during his time in the SEC, have been invaluable to a UNLV team that is still in the process of building a winning culture. Chop’s ability to lead by example and offer guidance to teammates has earned him the respect of both the coaching staff and his fellow players.
Chop is not only making an impact in the present—he’s also helping to lay the foundation for the future of UNLV football. Under Barry Odom’s leadership and with Chop as a cornerstone of the team, the Rebels have their sights set on achieving milestones that were once considered out of reach for the program.
The 2023 season has already seen moments of progress, with UNLV playing competitive football in the Mountain West and showing signs of turning a corner. With Chop anchoring the offensive line, the team has shown resilience and a newfound level of competitiveness. It’s not just about wins and losses, though—it’s about changing the culture and setting the program on a path to sustained success.
Looking ahead, Chop is expected to be a key figure in helping UNLV achieve its long-term goals, including reaching bowl games, contending for conference titles, and raising the profile of the program nationally. His decision to follow Odom to Las Vegas has not only benefited him individually but also has the potential to change the trajectory of Rebel football for years to come.
Andrew “Chop” Tank’s decision to follow Barry Odom from Arkansas to UNLV was not just about a change of scenery—it was about taking on a new challenge and being part of something special. His impact on the Rebels has been immediate, both in terms of performance and leadership, and he is already leaving a lasting legacy in Las Vegas.
As Chop continues to make history with the Rebels, his journey serves as a reminder that loyalty, leadership, and a willingness to embrace new challenges are what drive both individual and team success. UNLV football is on the rise, and with Chop leading the charge, the sky’s the limit for what this program can achieve.