Saturday night's 26-16 New Mexico State football loss to the San Diego State Aztecs was a tough one, simply because it was a game the Aggies could have won, in quite possibly their best showing of the season to this point.
NMSU led 16-0 early in the second quarter (it quickly became 16-2 after the team's extra point attempt was blocked and returned the other way for an Aztecs two-point conversion), and 16-5 at halftime.
But the Aggies couldn't move the ball in the second half (they gained just 84 yards total in the final two quarters) and were outscored 21-0 during that span.
The Aggies began the game by throwing the ball very effectively. Quarterback Andrew McDonald was 14 of 18 early on for 174 yards and two touchdowns, throwing to a group of wide receivers playing very well in the passing game - they ran good routes and came back to the ball effectively. The offensive line, it must be pointed out, held up fairly well in pass protection.
But the Aggie offense fell flat after that. Two drives late in the first quarter and going into the second were hampered by penalties (two holding calls and a false start). And, while the offense couldn't establish a rushing attack despite trying to do so (running the ball 27 times for just 40 yards) the passing game lost some of it's effectiveness, and perhaps aggressiveness (finishing the evening 23 of 35 for 228 yards and the two early scores). The Aggies committed only one turnover on the evening, when wide receiver Josh Bowen fumbled late in the fourth quarter.
The Aggie defense deserves credit for its performance. The unit played hard and tough, and had some big red-zone stops during the contest. Of course, there was an NMSU fumble recovery that set up one of the Aggie touchdowns. And the team played the pass well (Aztec quarterback Quinn Kaehler was not particularly impressive) and stopped the run for a good portion of the contest (SDSU had 90 rushing through three quarters, although ended the evening with 212 rushing yards total).
But the unit was on the field too long (SDSU held a time-of-possession advantage of 35:40 to 24:20 despite NMSU's fast start to the contest). That, and the Aztecs featured freshman running back Donnell Pumphrey more in the second half and the speedster had a big evening, gaining 167 yards on 19 carries, to go along with three touchdowns.
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Again, the Aggies couldn't get a rushing attack going against the Aztecs, a key factor in the contest.
Still, we can understand why NMSU tried to get the ground game going. Last week the Aggies rushed for 187 yards against UCLA, and if they came close to such a number against the Aztecs, a victory would have been very attainable.
The question is, can the Aggies generate a consistent running game in 2013? The week before against UCLA, freshman King Davis III started at quarterback, and his mobility could have very well aided in the ground game's overall performance.
Andrew McDonald got the starting nod against SDSU (Davis suffered a concussion against the Bruins), and while the senior is the more consistent passer - and an underrated runner - he also doesn't bring the same athleticism to the table.
With that being said, the Aggies just might have the potential for a dangerous passing attack if McDonald is the starter this weekend against the University of New Mexico. Again, the wide receivers have played well in 2013, and now have marquee player Austin Franklin back in the fold after his academic ineligibility the first four games of the season. Yes, he can provide the big-play punch this team needs. That, and McDonald has proven he can run the offense and the Aggies can be competitive under his watch.
Should they go with a more unbalanced attack, one that leans more heavily on the passing game, for the time being? Having a balanced offense is a preferred method, although perhaps such a pass-happy approach could be put put into effect this weekend, when the team visits Albuquerque to take on the Lobos.
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On the other side of the ball, the most intriguing storyline going into this weekend's game will be the Lobos rushing attack against the Aggie rush defense. UNM currently ranks third nationally in rushing offense (324.5 rushing yards per game) while the Aggies rank last (No. 123) nationally in rush defense (300.8 yards per game).
With that being said, UNM seldom even tries to throw - the Lobos have attempted 54 passes all season, and rank No. 122 in the nation with 78.3 passing yards per game. And, on top of that, the Lobos actually average 31 points per game despite having such a ground-based style.
In other words, they are what they are offensively and execute it well. How things shake out in this area of the game could very well tell much of Saturday's storyline.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
Monday, September 30, 2013
Friday, September 27, 2013
Aggies vs. Aztecs: Keys to the game
Offensive gameplan: How the Aggies come out and attack the San Diego State defense will telling. Does NMSU try and re-establish the running game? Or do they look to come out and throw the football to the short and intermediate routes of the field? Senior quarterback Andrew McDonald could very well be the starter Saturday (freshman King Davis III was knocked out of last week’s game at UCLA following a big hit). Either way, protecting the starting signal caller against a blitzing Aztec defense will play a major factor. For those wondering, former quarterback-turned-wide receiver Travaughn Colwell is No. 3 on the QB depth chart.
Asserting themselves: The Aggies have seldom if ever led this season (they were up 7-0 for a 40-second period during the first half at the University of Texas). If they can get up early and use a ball-control attack, it would be a nice plus for a defense that hasn’t had such benefits in 2013. The Aggies got their running game going last week against UCLA (187 yards on 41 carries), and they’ll likely need similar success tonight to have a shot against the Aztecs.
On paper: The Aztecs are a good mid-major program, located in the fertile recruiting base of Southern California. They’ve been to bowl games three-straight seasons, and could be primed for their first win of the season tonight (they enter the game with an 0-3 record). SDSU is somewhat of a throwback team (they play with a true fullback on the offensive side of the ball) and the contest could very well start along the lines of scrimmage - the Aggies defensive front-seven against the Aztecs running style, and the NMSU offensive line holding up against SDSU’s blitz-heavy defense.
Best game yet: With the above key as a backdrop, the Aggies need to step their game up across the board - a notch on offense, a couple notches on defense and a number of notches on special teams. The Aztecs do in fact come into the game as 17.5-point favorites. With that being said, the Aggies must take it to another level, and certainly must win the turnover battle head coach Doug Martin has so often talked about.
A much-needed win: The Aggies have played a challenging early-season schedule, with the only real winnable game thus far on the docket being a 42-21 home loss to UTEP. With that being said, a win would do wonders for the program, as NMSU enters with a 15-game losing streak dating back to last season. While the first four games of 2013 haven’t necessarily been easy, the Aggies are one-win away from starting a turnaround, under a first-year coaching staff.
If you go
Who: San Diego State (0-3) at NMSU (0-4)
What: College football, Week 5
Where: Aggie Memorial Stadium, Las Cruces
When: Tonight, 6 p.m.
Radio: KGRT-FM 104; Vista-FM 98.7 (Spanish)
TV: AggieVision, Comcast Cable channel 4
Spread: NMSU plus-17.5
Weather: Sunny, temperature in the low-70s
Tickets: Go to or call the Pan American Center ticket office at 575-646-1420. Purchase tickets online at www.ticketmaster.com. Aggie Memorial Ticket windows open at 3 p.m.
Asserting themselves: The Aggies have seldom if ever led this season (they were up 7-0 for a 40-second period during the first half at the University of Texas). If they can get up early and use a ball-control attack, it would be a nice plus for a defense that hasn’t had such benefits in 2013. The Aggies got their running game going last week against UCLA (187 yards on 41 carries), and they’ll likely need similar success tonight to have a shot against the Aztecs.
On paper: The Aztecs are a good mid-major program, located in the fertile recruiting base of Southern California. They’ve been to bowl games three-straight seasons, and could be primed for their first win of the season tonight (they enter the game with an 0-3 record). SDSU is somewhat of a throwback team (they play with a true fullback on the offensive side of the ball) and the contest could very well start along the lines of scrimmage - the Aggies defensive front-seven against the Aztecs running style, and the NMSU offensive line holding up against SDSU’s blitz-heavy defense.
Best game yet: With the above key as a backdrop, the Aggies need to step their game up across the board - a notch on offense, a couple notches on defense and a number of notches on special teams. The Aztecs do in fact come into the game as 17.5-point favorites. With that being said, the Aggies must take it to another level, and certainly must win the turnover battle head coach Doug Martin has so often talked about.
A much-needed win: The Aggies have played a challenging early-season schedule, with the only real winnable game thus far on the docket being a 42-21 home loss to UTEP. With that being said, a win would do wonders for the program, as NMSU enters with a 15-game losing streak dating back to last season. While the first four games of 2013 haven’t necessarily been easy, the Aggies are one-win away from starting a turnaround, under a first-year coaching staff.
If you go
Who: San Diego State (0-3) at NMSU (0-4)
What: College football, Week 5
Where: Aggie Memorial Stadium, Las Cruces
When: Tonight, 6 p.m.
Radio: KGRT-FM 104; Vista-FM 98.7 (Spanish)
TV: AggieVision, Comcast Cable channel 4
Spread: NMSU plus-17.5
Weather: Sunny, temperature in the low-70s
Tickets: Go to or call the Pan American Center ticket office at 575-646-1420. Purchase tickets online at www.ticketmaster.com. Aggie Memorial Ticket windows open at 3 p.m.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Aggies host San Diego State: Mid-week primer
The New Mexico State football team hosts the San Diego State Aztecs this weekend, with both teams searching got their first wins of 2013.
I do believe an Aggie victory will be a tall order in this one. Although I also believe it’s doable if things fall into place for NMSU.
For one, the entire team is going to have to turn it up a notch - in some cases, a couple notches - in all three phases of the game.
The Aggies could greatly use an early lead in this one (they’ve held a lead for just 40 second so far this year, during their Week 1 game at Texas). They have to hope their running game continues it’s momentum from last week’s 187-yard performance against UCLA, and that whoever is playing quarterback (don’t be surprised if it’s senior Andrew McDonald, after King Davis III took a big hit last week against the Bruins) can take advantage of San Diego State’s blitzing defense.
Defensively, the Aggies have been a hard team to figure: they’ve forced nine turnovers (matching last year’s total) and have played tough at certain points of the season (first-half showings against Texas, Minnesota and UTEP all come to mind). With that being said, they’ve given up a boatload of yards and points: they rank last in the NCAA in rush defense (323.0 yards per game), scoring defense (50.3 points per game) and total defense (605.5 yards per game). It would be nice to see them play with the lead, but first and foremost the team needs to cut down on big plays surrendered.
And special teams must improve across the board for the Aggies to truly improve in 2013.
It won’t be an easy contest. San Diego State is 17.5-point favorites and, despite an 0-3 record of its own, could be primed for it’s first win (last week, the Aztecs narrowly lost to Oregon State). The team is well coached, particularly defensively, under Rocky Long (a three-man front, with different looks from a blitzing linebacking unit). And they’ll play smash-mouth football offensively, with a true fullback on the depth chart.
Again, NMSU will need to play it's best game of 2013 and hope the Aztecs continue to stay off rhythm. But no one will debate that a win here would be huge for the 2013 Aggies.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Looking back: Aggies fall at UCLA
The New Mexico State Aggies met a highly-challenging test this past weekend, a road game at UCLA that saw them fall 59-13.
UCLA, ranked No. 13 in the AP Top 25 Poll, is the best team the Aggies have faced to this point of the season and should be from here on out. The Bruins dominated the game, from gaining 692 total yards of offense to converting 12 of 14 third-down attempts (the Aggies, conversely, were 1 of 11 on third-down conversions).
UCLA continued to exploit an Aggie defense that's been beaten during the year. NMSU did win the turnover battle 3-2, with all three UCLA turnovers coming in the red zone (two of which came in the first quarter). But the Bruins didn't punt on the evening, either, and scored 24 second-quarter points to take a 31-0 lead at intermission.
The Aggies 605.5 yards surrendered per game is ranked last in the NCAA (No. 123) as is their 50.3 points-per-game against.
The hope is that such numbers will be reduced moving into the second half of the season (the first four games of the 2013 have been brutal, with three BCS opponents on the docket). The next two weeks, prior to the team's bye, against San Diego State and New Mexico, don't figure to be easy contests by any means, however.
•••
The Aggies started a brand-new offensive backfield in freshman quarterback King Davis III and junior running back Brandon Betancourt.
And the team was able to get a running game going, gaining 187 yards on 41 carries (4.6 yards per rush).
Betancout, a Mayfield High School alum, played well, gaining 95 yards on 18 carries while scoring his third touchdown in three weeks. He's been a bright spot for the Aggies throughout the early portion of the 2013 season.
Davis, on the other hand, was a freshman quarterback making his first career start against the UCLA defense in the Rose Bowl. Overall, he didn't necessarily play poorly and showed his athleticism, rushing for 64 yards on 12 attempts. The team did not assert itself throwing the ball with him in the game, however (6 of 13, 48 yards and an interception). Davis also lost a fumble on the evening.
•••
Initially, UCLA had some trouble defending the Aggies rushing attack, although quickly made adjustments. Davis began taking some hard hits and was eventually knocked out of the game after taking a shot on a pass play, with the Aggies trailing 31-0 in the third quarter.
Davis' arms went stiff, and he was on the ground momentarily before the medical staff could tend to him on the field.
In any event, senior Andrew McDonald - who started the first three games of the season - did come into the game and to his credit played well. McDonald was ready and quickly led the Aggies on a five-play, 74-yard scoring drive that ended on his 33-yard scoring pass to Adam Shapiro to start the fourth quarter.
Later in the fourth, the Aggies went on another scoring drive - this time a 10-play, 85-yard drive - that culminated on Betancourt's four-yard touchdown run.
McDonald finished the evening 9 of 13 for 98 yards and a touchdown and the offense seemed more settled under his watch. He could get the starting nod this weekend against San Diego State, depending on the severity of Davis' injury.
•••
Special teams continues to struggle for the Aggies.
The game's initial kickoff saw the Bruins return the ball inside the NMSU 20-yard line.
The Aggies botched a field-goal attempt just before halftime when McDonald bobbled the snap - somehow, it was the Aggies first field-goal attempt of the 2013 season.
The team also managed to miss an extra point following the game's final touchdown.
•••
Safety Davis Cazares had a standout game on defense - 12 tackles, two interceptions and a fumble recovery. Overall, it was a nice homecoming for the Monrovia, Calif. native.
•••
Is this team missing Austin Franklin? The answer to that question is, unequivocally, yes.
The Aggies just don't have any home-run hitters on offense, and have to manufacture most drives with very few gamebreakers.
With that being said, I think the wide receiver unit has performed about as well as one could expect in 2013.
Players such as Jerrel Brown, Joshua Bowen, Joseph Matthews, Perris Scoggins, Jordan Bergstrom and Adam Shapiro have played within themselves and generally hang onto the ball.
Shapiro, a Rio Rancho native, caught his first career touchdown against the Bruins.
I'll say the same thing about the offensive line, which has performed about as well as one could expect in 2013.
•••
Overall, the game followed an unsettling script for the Aggies, once again against an elite UCLA team.
NMSU did run the ball better, although needs to be more consistent offensively.
Defensively, the unit's struggles were apparent and somewhat expected.
And from a special teams standpoint, there doesn't seem to be any cohesion.
The takeaways from the contest were small steps: the three forced turnovers; Betancourt's and Cazares' performances; along with Shapiro's touchdown grab.
The Aggies return home next weekend against a San Diego State team that sits at 0-3, although could be close to figuring things out. The Aztecs had a real chance at victory this past Saturday against Oregon State (they lost 34-30) and are coached by former University of New Mexico head man Rocky Long.
It doesn't figure to be an easy contest, one where the Aggies likely will have to play their best of the 2013 season to pull off.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
UCLA, ranked No. 13 in the AP Top 25 Poll, is the best team the Aggies have faced to this point of the season and should be from here on out. The Bruins dominated the game, from gaining 692 total yards of offense to converting 12 of 14 third-down attempts (the Aggies, conversely, were 1 of 11 on third-down conversions).
UCLA continued to exploit an Aggie defense that's been beaten during the year. NMSU did win the turnover battle 3-2, with all three UCLA turnovers coming in the red zone (two of which came in the first quarter). But the Bruins didn't punt on the evening, either, and scored 24 second-quarter points to take a 31-0 lead at intermission.
The Aggies 605.5 yards surrendered per game is ranked last in the NCAA (No. 123) as is their 50.3 points-per-game against.
The hope is that such numbers will be reduced moving into the second half of the season (the first four games of the 2013 have been brutal, with three BCS opponents on the docket). The next two weeks, prior to the team's bye, against San Diego State and New Mexico, don't figure to be easy contests by any means, however.
•••
The Aggies started a brand-new offensive backfield in freshman quarterback King Davis III and junior running back Brandon Betancourt.
And the team was able to get a running game going, gaining 187 yards on 41 carries (4.6 yards per rush).
Betancout, a Mayfield High School alum, played well, gaining 95 yards on 18 carries while scoring his third touchdown in three weeks. He's been a bright spot for the Aggies throughout the early portion of the 2013 season.
Davis, on the other hand, was a freshman quarterback making his first career start against the UCLA defense in the Rose Bowl. Overall, he didn't necessarily play poorly and showed his athleticism, rushing for 64 yards on 12 attempts. The team did not assert itself throwing the ball with him in the game, however (6 of 13, 48 yards and an interception). Davis also lost a fumble on the evening.
•••
Initially, UCLA had some trouble defending the Aggies rushing attack, although quickly made adjustments. Davis began taking some hard hits and was eventually knocked out of the game after taking a shot on a pass play, with the Aggies trailing 31-0 in the third quarter.
Davis' arms went stiff, and he was on the ground momentarily before the medical staff could tend to him on the field.
In any event, senior Andrew McDonald - who started the first three games of the season - did come into the game and to his credit played well. McDonald was ready and quickly led the Aggies on a five-play, 74-yard scoring drive that ended on his 33-yard scoring pass to Adam Shapiro to start the fourth quarter.
Later in the fourth, the Aggies went on another scoring drive - this time a 10-play, 85-yard drive - that culminated on Betancourt's four-yard touchdown run.
McDonald finished the evening 9 of 13 for 98 yards and a touchdown and the offense seemed more settled under his watch. He could get the starting nod this weekend against San Diego State, depending on the severity of Davis' injury.
•••
Special teams continues to struggle for the Aggies.
The game's initial kickoff saw the Bruins return the ball inside the NMSU 20-yard line.
The Aggies botched a field-goal attempt just before halftime when McDonald bobbled the snap - somehow, it was the Aggies first field-goal attempt of the 2013 season.
The team also managed to miss an extra point following the game's final touchdown.
•••
Safety Davis Cazares had a standout game on defense - 12 tackles, two interceptions and a fumble recovery. Overall, it was a nice homecoming for the Monrovia, Calif. native.
•••
Is this team missing Austin Franklin? The answer to that question is, unequivocally, yes.
The Aggies just don't have any home-run hitters on offense, and have to manufacture most drives with very few gamebreakers.
With that being said, I think the wide receiver unit has performed about as well as one could expect in 2013.
Players such as Jerrel Brown, Joshua Bowen, Joseph Matthews, Perris Scoggins, Jordan Bergstrom and Adam Shapiro have played within themselves and generally hang onto the ball.
Shapiro, a Rio Rancho native, caught his first career touchdown against the Bruins.
I'll say the same thing about the offensive line, which has performed about as well as one could expect in 2013.
•••
Overall, the game followed an unsettling script for the Aggies, once again against an elite UCLA team.
NMSU did run the ball better, although needs to be more consistent offensively.
Defensively, the unit's struggles were apparent and somewhat expected.
And from a special teams standpoint, there doesn't seem to be any cohesion.
The takeaways from the contest were small steps: the three forced turnovers; Betancourt's and Cazares' performances; along with Shapiro's touchdown grab.
The Aggies return home next weekend against a San Diego State team that sits at 0-3, although could be close to figuring things out. The Aztecs had a real chance at victory this past Saturday against Oregon State (they lost 34-30) and are coached by former University of New Mexico head man Rocky Long.
It doesn't figure to be an easy contest, one where the Aggies likely will have to play their best of the 2013 season to pull off.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
Monday, September 16, 2013
Looking back: NMSU falls to I-10 rival UTEP
New Mexico State lost a frustrating affair to I-10 rival UTEP, a 42-21 defeat on Saturday night at Aggie Memorial Stadium.
It was discouraging, simply from the standpoint that it was a winnable game on the 2013 schedule - an independent docket where there aren't a whole lot of such games to begin with for the Aggies.
But four turnovers were far too much to overcome - two of which came in the red zone, one on a trick play on first down from the UTEP 11. That, and unusual management of the quarterback position (where senior Andrew McDonald led two first-quarter touchdowns, was replaced by freshman King Davis III for the second and third quarters, only to come back in the fourth); and the lack of a running game - NMSU had just 19 rushing attempts for 99 yards on a Miners team that gave up nearly 400 on the ground last week to New Mexico. UTEP, in turn, ran the ball 56 times for 293 yards, wearing on the Aggie defense as the game moved into the second half and fourth quarter.
UTEP - a team in transition as well under first-year coach Sean Kugler - had a sound gameplan coming in. The Miners came out throwing, targeting certain areas of the Aggie secondary and having success with quarterback Jameill Showers and wide receivers Jordan Leslie and Ian Hamilton. Once such an approach loosened things up, UTEP turned to the ground game, and by the end of the night had advantages in key statistical categories: first downs (29 to 15), third-down conversions (10 of 17 compared to 1 of 7) and time of possession (41:53 to 18:07).
Here are some links following game:
For a recap of Saturday night's contest, click here
For a follow story with further commentary from head coach Doug Martin, click here
For photos from the contest, click here
For video interviews from Saturday's press conference, click here
It was discouraging, simply from the standpoint that it was a winnable game on the 2013 schedule - an independent docket where there aren't a whole lot of such games to begin with for the Aggies.
But four turnovers were far too much to overcome - two of which came in the red zone, one on a trick play on first down from the UTEP 11. That, and unusual management of the quarterback position (where senior Andrew McDonald led two first-quarter touchdowns, was replaced by freshman King Davis III for the second and third quarters, only to come back in the fourth); and the lack of a running game - NMSU had just 19 rushing attempts for 99 yards on a Miners team that gave up nearly 400 on the ground last week to New Mexico. UTEP, in turn, ran the ball 56 times for 293 yards, wearing on the Aggie defense as the game moved into the second half and fourth quarter.
UTEP - a team in transition as well under first-year coach Sean Kugler - had a sound gameplan coming in. The Miners came out throwing, targeting certain areas of the Aggie secondary and having success with quarterback Jameill Showers and wide receivers Jordan Leslie and Ian Hamilton. Once such an approach loosened things up, UTEP turned to the ground game, and by the end of the night had advantages in key statistical categories: first downs (29 to 15), third-down conversions (10 of 17 compared to 1 of 7) and time of possession (41:53 to 18:07).
Here are some links following game:
For a recap of Saturday night's contest, click here
For a follow story with further commentary from head coach Doug Martin, click here
For photos from the contest, click here
For video interviews from Saturday's press conference, click here
Friday, September 13, 2013
5 keys to Aggies vs. Miners
Run defense: We can’t hammer this point home enough. The Aggies need to contain the Miners on the ground and establish a rushing attack of their own. NMSU’s defense has done some decent things this year, although surrendering the big play has been a problem throughout the first two weeks of the season (they’re giving up over 8 yards per carry to the opposition). If they can eliminate such sequences tonight against the Miners, a victory will be attainable.
Turnovers and special teams: In an evenly-matched contest, these two areas tend to be key factors in a given football game. Think back to two years ago, when the Aggies lost a goal-line fumble on their first possession, then saw UTEP take a fake-punt down to the NMSU goal-line leading to the go-ahead touchdown in the Miners 16-10 win in Las Cruces. NMSU has gotten off to a slow start from a special-teams standpoint this season, and tonight would be a good time to pick things. While the Aggies can’t afford to give away any points in that department, ball security will also be a key factor throughout.
Taking charge: The Aggies got out of the gates slowly last weekend against Minnesota, gaining just 24 yards in the first quarter and falling behind 13-0 early in the second period. Points figure to be scored in tonight’s game, and, on their home field in a contest they need, it wouldn’t hurt the Aggies to lay the first blow, play from ahead, and sustain such momentum for the evening’s entirety.
Jameill Showers: UTEP’s junior quarterback managed the game well last week in the team’s 42-35 overtime loss to New Mexico, although didn’t particularly stand out either. He completed 15 of 20 pass attempts for 119 yards and a touchdown, while adding 44 rushing yards on eight carries and a TD on the ground. Will UTEP unleash Showers more this evening? The Aggies will likely be focused on controlling the Miner rushing attack, meaning UTEP could elect to take more shots downfield with it's transfer quarterback from Texas A&M.
On equal ground: The Aggies have been big underdogs in each of their first two games, with early-season contests against BCS programs Texas and Minnesota kicking off the program’s 2013 season. Saturday the personnel should be more in the same ballpark, and the Aggies will learn an awful lot about their football team against a fellow mid-major program. Additionally for the Miners, they’ve only played one game to this point - last week against a New Mexico team that ran often (57 carries) yet seldom threw (just seven pass attempts for the entire game). Seeing how each team matches up in this one, and any wrinkles they might throw at each other, will be a telling sign.
Prediction: Figure points will be scored, and a very competitive game should unfold. Tough to predict with special teams and turnovers figuring to play such a key role. We’ll go with the home team by a field goal. NMSU 34, UTEP 31
IF YOU GO
Who: UTEP (0-1) at New Mexico State (0-2)
What: College football game, Week 3
Where: Aggie Memorial Stadium
When: Saturday, 6 p.m.
Radio: KGRT-FM 104; Vista-FM 98.7 (Spanish)
Spread: NMSU +4.5
Weather: Mostly sunny, high in the low-80s, 20 percent of rain
Tickets: Go to or call the Pan American Center ticket office at 575-646-1420. Fans can also purchase tickets at www.ticketmaster.com. Aggie Memorial Stadium ticket windows open at 3 p.m.
Turnovers and special teams: In an evenly-matched contest, these two areas tend to be key factors in a given football game. Think back to two years ago, when the Aggies lost a goal-line fumble on their first possession, then saw UTEP take a fake-punt down to the NMSU goal-line leading to the go-ahead touchdown in the Miners 16-10 win in Las Cruces. NMSU has gotten off to a slow start from a special-teams standpoint this season, and tonight would be a good time to pick things. While the Aggies can’t afford to give away any points in that department, ball security will also be a key factor throughout.
Taking charge: The Aggies got out of the gates slowly last weekend against Minnesota, gaining just 24 yards in the first quarter and falling behind 13-0 early in the second period. Points figure to be scored in tonight’s game, and, on their home field in a contest they need, it wouldn’t hurt the Aggies to lay the first blow, play from ahead, and sustain such momentum for the evening’s entirety.
Jameill Showers: UTEP’s junior quarterback managed the game well last week in the team’s 42-35 overtime loss to New Mexico, although didn’t particularly stand out either. He completed 15 of 20 pass attempts for 119 yards and a touchdown, while adding 44 rushing yards on eight carries and a TD on the ground. Will UTEP unleash Showers more this evening? The Aggies will likely be focused on controlling the Miner rushing attack, meaning UTEP could elect to take more shots downfield with it's transfer quarterback from Texas A&M.
On equal ground: The Aggies have been big underdogs in each of their first two games, with early-season contests against BCS programs Texas and Minnesota kicking off the program’s 2013 season. Saturday the personnel should be more in the same ballpark, and the Aggies will learn an awful lot about their football team against a fellow mid-major program. Additionally for the Miners, they’ve only played one game to this point - last week against a New Mexico team that ran often (57 carries) yet seldom threw (just seven pass attempts for the entire game). Seeing how each team matches up in this one, and any wrinkles they might throw at each other, will be a telling sign.
Prediction: Figure points will be scored, and a very competitive game should unfold. Tough to predict with special teams and turnovers figuring to play such a key role. We’ll go with the home team by a field goal. NMSU 34, UTEP 31
IF YOU GO
Who: UTEP (0-1) at New Mexico State (0-2)
What: College football game, Week 3
Where: Aggie Memorial Stadium
When: Saturday, 6 p.m.
Radio: KGRT-FM 104; Vista-FM 98.7 (Spanish)
Spread: NMSU +4.5
Weather: Mostly sunny, high in the low-80s, 20 percent of rain
Tickets: Go to or call the Pan American Center ticket office at 575-646-1420. Fans can also purchase tickets at www.ticketmaster.com. Aggie Memorial Stadium ticket windows open at 3 p.m.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
VIDEO: Teddy and Brook Show (9/12)
Previewing this weekend's New Mexico State vs. UTEP football game:
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
NMSU vs. UTEP: Depth charts
NMSU Aggies
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Jerrel Brown, Jr. 17 6-0, 190
Jordan Bergstrom, Jr. 11 5-11, 180
LT Davonte Wallace, Sr. 74 6-4, 315
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
LG Isaiah Folasa-Lutui, So. 62 6-3, 309
Spencer Ueli-Faatoalia, Jr. 54 6-1, 308
C Valerian Ume-Ezeoke, Jr. 55 6-3, 295
Alexander Trujillo, So. 69 6-2, 285
RG Andy Cunningham, So. 70 6-3, 308
Abram Holland, RFr. 50 6-2, 270
RT Dada Richards, Sr. 66 6-3, 307
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
TE Perris Scoggins, Sr. 80 6-3, 242
Andrew Dean, Jr. 89 6-3, 244
WR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Xzavian Brandon, RSr. 19 6-2, 203
WR Joshua Bowen, So. 6 5-10, 175
Rayvean Moore, RFr. 86 5-10, 168
RB Germi Morrison, Sr. 25 6-0, 207
Brandon Betancourt, Jr. 21 5-10, 187
QB Andrew McDonald, Sr. 12 6-2, 205
King Davis III, Fr. 3 6-1, 200
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Willie Mobley, Sr. 98 6-2, 282
Mason Russell, Sr. 92 6-5, 260
NT Kevin Laudermill, Sr. 56 6-2, 277
Matt Ramondo, So. 93 6-5, 310
LE Nick Oliva, Sr. 90 6-5, 255
Kalvin Cruz, Sr. 91 6-2, 274
OLB Stephen Meredith, RSo. 99 6-3, 240
Kalei Auelua, Fr. 48 6-2, 240
MLB Bryan Bonilla, Sr. 12 6-1, 240
Josh Smith, Sr. 24 6-0, 227
MLB Clint Barnard, RJr. 13 6-3, 240
Dylan Davis, Sr. 32 6-0, 246
OLB Trashaun Nixon, Sr. 2 6-1, 235
Rodney Butler, Fr. 53 6-1, 212
LC Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Kedeem Thomas-Davis, So. 10 5-9, 170
FS George Callender, Sr. 5 6-1, 205
Anthony Edwards, Sr. 21 6-0, 191
SS Davis Cazares, Sr. 31 6-0, 203
Justin Smith, Sr. 8 6-1, 205
RC Cameron Fuller, Sr. 3 5-11, 175
Justin Smith, Sr. 8 6-1, 205
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Maxwell Johnson, Jr. 18 5-10, 185
P Cayle Chapman-Brown, Jr. 7 6-5, 231
Jake Capraro, So. 42 6-1, 215
KR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Adam Shapiro, Jr. 17 6-1, 190
PR Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
UTEP MINERS
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Jordan Leslie, Jr. 9 6-3, 210
Malcolm Trail, Jr. 4 6-1, 200
LT Brander Craighead, Sr. 58 6-7, 300
Christian Harper, Fr. 67 6-4, 270
LG Jerel Watkins, Jr. 69 6-3, 280
Jerome Daniels, Fr. 70 6-3, 285
C Paulo Melendez, Jr. 59 6-3, 315
Eric Lee, So. 60 6-1, 285
RG Kyle Brown, Jr. 62 6-2, 275
James Robinson, Sr. 55 6-5, 330
RT Mike Amdall, Sr. 65 6-5, 320
Chris Thomas, So. 77 6-4, 325
TE Eric Tomlinson, Jr. 87 6-7, 260
Craig Wenrick, Sr. 81 6-5, 260
WR Ian Hamilton, Jr. 14 6-5, 230
Devin Patterson, Jr. 15 6-1, 205
RB Nathan Jeffery, Jr. 25 6-0, 200
Aaron Jones, Fr. 29 5-10, 175
FB Darrin Laufasa, Fr. 30 6-1, 240
Josh Bell, Jr. 29 6-0, 220
QB Jameill Showers, Jr. 1 6-2, 220
Blaire Sullivan, So. 10 6-4, 310
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Roy Robertson-Harris, So. 43 6-7, 240
Cooper Brock, Jr. 40 6-4, 260
DT Adam Ayala, Sr. 92 6-5, 275
Germard Reed, Sr. 61 6-1, 280
NT Marcus Bagley, Sr. 8 6-2, 325
Silas Firstley, So. 54 6-1, 260
DE James Davidson, Sr. 18 6-3, 235
Nick Usher, Fr. 99 6-3, 215
MLB Anthony Puente, Jr. 34 5-11, 225
A.J. Ropati, Sr. 11 6-1, 235
WLB Horace Miller, Sr. 33 6-2, 240
Trey Brown, So. 35 6-0, 210
CB Adrian Jones, Jr. 1 6-0, 195
Quinton Tezeno, Fr. 20 5-10, 170
SS Devin Cockrell, Fr. 27 5-11, 180
Jeremy Baltazar, Sr. 22 6-0, 197
FS Wesley Miller, Jr. 13 5-10, 180
Dashone Smith, Fr. 21 6-0, 190
WS Demarcus Kizzie, So. 28 5-9, 185
Jameel Erving, Jr. 22 6-1, 195
CB Ismael Harrison, So. 2 6-0, 190
Nick Gathrite, So. 7 5-9, 165
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Jay Mattox, Fr. 47 6-0, 175
Mike Ruggles, Fr. 98 6-6, 205
P Mike Ruggles, Fr. 98 6-6, 205
Brandon Moss, Fr. 6 6-3, 185
KR Autrey Golden, So. 8 5-11, 180
Ishmael Harrison, So. 2 6-0, 190
PR Jim Jones, Jr. 5 6-1, 180
Jarrad Shaw, Sr. 88 5-9, 180
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Jerrel Brown, Jr. 17 6-0, 190
Jordan Bergstrom, Jr. 11 5-11, 180
LT Davonte Wallace, Sr. 74 6-4, 315
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
LG Isaiah Folasa-Lutui, So. 62 6-3, 309
Spencer Ueli-Faatoalia, Jr. 54 6-1, 308
C Valerian Ume-Ezeoke, Jr. 55 6-3, 295
Alexander Trujillo, So. 69 6-2, 285
RG Andy Cunningham, So. 70 6-3, 308
Abram Holland, RFr. 50 6-2, 270
RT Dada Richards, Sr. 66 6-3, 307
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
TE Perris Scoggins, Sr. 80 6-3, 242
Andrew Dean, Jr. 89 6-3, 244
WR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Xzavian Brandon, RSr. 19 6-2, 203
WR Joshua Bowen, So. 6 5-10, 175
Rayvean Moore, RFr. 86 5-10, 168
RB Germi Morrison, Sr. 25 6-0, 207
Brandon Betancourt, Jr. 21 5-10, 187
QB Andrew McDonald, Sr. 12 6-2, 205
King Davis III, Fr. 3 6-1, 200
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Willie Mobley, Sr. 98 6-2, 282
Mason Russell, Sr. 92 6-5, 260
NT Kevin Laudermill, Sr. 56 6-2, 277
Matt Ramondo, So. 93 6-5, 310
LE Nick Oliva, Sr. 90 6-5, 255
Kalvin Cruz, Sr. 91 6-2, 274
OLB Stephen Meredith, RSo. 99 6-3, 240
Kalei Auelua, Fr. 48 6-2, 240
MLB Bryan Bonilla, Sr. 12 6-1, 240
Josh Smith, Sr. 24 6-0, 227
MLB Clint Barnard, RJr. 13 6-3, 240
Dylan Davis, Sr. 32 6-0, 246
OLB Trashaun Nixon, Sr. 2 6-1, 235
Rodney Butler, Fr. 53 6-1, 212
LC Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Kedeem Thomas-Davis, So. 10 5-9, 170
FS George Callender, Sr. 5 6-1, 205
Anthony Edwards, Sr. 21 6-0, 191
SS Davis Cazares, Sr. 31 6-0, 203
Justin Smith, Sr. 8 6-1, 205
RC Cameron Fuller, Sr. 3 5-11, 175
Justin Smith, Sr. 8 6-1, 205
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Maxwell Johnson, Jr. 18 5-10, 185
P Cayle Chapman-Brown, Jr. 7 6-5, 231
Jake Capraro, So. 42 6-1, 215
KR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Adam Shapiro, Jr. 17 6-1, 190
PR Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
UTEP MINERS
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Jordan Leslie, Jr. 9 6-3, 210
Malcolm Trail, Jr. 4 6-1, 200
LT Brander Craighead, Sr. 58 6-7, 300
Christian Harper, Fr. 67 6-4, 270
LG Jerel Watkins, Jr. 69 6-3, 280
Jerome Daniels, Fr. 70 6-3, 285
C Paulo Melendez, Jr. 59 6-3, 315
Eric Lee, So. 60 6-1, 285
RG Kyle Brown, Jr. 62 6-2, 275
James Robinson, Sr. 55 6-5, 330
RT Mike Amdall, Sr. 65 6-5, 320
Chris Thomas, So. 77 6-4, 325
TE Eric Tomlinson, Jr. 87 6-7, 260
Craig Wenrick, Sr. 81 6-5, 260
WR Ian Hamilton, Jr. 14 6-5, 230
Devin Patterson, Jr. 15 6-1, 205
RB Nathan Jeffery, Jr. 25 6-0, 200
Aaron Jones, Fr. 29 5-10, 175
FB Darrin Laufasa, Fr. 30 6-1, 240
Josh Bell, Jr. 29 6-0, 220
QB Jameill Showers, Jr. 1 6-2, 220
Blaire Sullivan, So. 10 6-4, 310
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Roy Robertson-Harris, So. 43 6-7, 240
Cooper Brock, Jr. 40 6-4, 260
DT Adam Ayala, Sr. 92 6-5, 275
Germard Reed, Sr. 61 6-1, 280
NT Marcus Bagley, Sr. 8 6-2, 325
Silas Firstley, So. 54 6-1, 260
DE James Davidson, Sr. 18 6-3, 235
Nick Usher, Fr. 99 6-3, 215
MLB Anthony Puente, Jr. 34 5-11, 225
A.J. Ropati, Sr. 11 6-1, 235
WLB Horace Miller, Sr. 33 6-2, 240
Trey Brown, So. 35 6-0, 210
CB Adrian Jones, Jr. 1 6-0, 195
Quinton Tezeno, Fr. 20 5-10, 170
SS Devin Cockrell, Fr. 27 5-11, 180
Jeremy Baltazar, Sr. 22 6-0, 197
FS Wesley Miller, Jr. 13 5-10, 180
Dashone Smith, Fr. 21 6-0, 190
WS Demarcus Kizzie, So. 28 5-9, 185
Jameel Erving, Jr. 22 6-1, 195
CB Ismael Harrison, So. 2 6-0, 190
Nick Gathrite, So. 7 5-9, 165
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Jay Mattox, Fr. 47 6-0, 175
Mike Ruggles, Fr. 98 6-6, 205
P Mike Ruggles, Fr. 98 6-6, 205
Brandon Moss, Fr. 6 6-3, 185
KR Autrey Golden, So. 8 5-11, 180
Ishmael Harrison, So. 2 6-0, 190
PR Jim Jones, Jr. 5 6-1, 180
Jarrad Shaw, Sr. 88 5-9, 180
Sunday, September 8, 2013
After falling short to Minnesota, Aggies get crack at rival UTEP
Saturday night saw the New Mexico State Aggies do some good things, but also lose to a Big Ten team that was, as expected, superior from a physical standpoint.
Minnesota is a power football team, and a very good one - it showed during the Golden Gophers 44-21 win Saturday night at Aggie Memorial Stadium. Offensively they had a veteran line, and the sheer size and power of that unit along with the team's running backs (Rodrick Williams Jr. and David Cobb), along with quarterback Phillip Nelson, wore on the Aggie defense to the tune of 342 rushing yards on the evening.
Ditto for the Minnesota defensive front, which was headlined by tackle Ra'Shede Hageman. The Aggies tried to run the ball up the middle throughout the night, although that wasn't going to happen on a Gophers team that simply held an edge along the trenches on both sides of the ball.
Truthfully, once the Aggies spread the Gophers out - three- and four-wide receivers sets - and used quarterback Andrew McDonald on quick dropbacks and releases to the short-to-intermediate passing zones of the defense, NMSU moved the ball fairly effectively (the team, after all, did accumulate 356 yards of offense on the evening).
The problem arose with the Aggies hitting their offensive stride too late - midway through the second quarter, already trailing 13-0.
Looking back on the game, the NMSU defense did essentially all it could. Of course the unit gave up 342 yards rushing to the Gophers, although such a turn of events was somewhat expected.
NMSU surrendered just 30 points defensively - a Minnesota punt-return touchdown and fumble-return touchdown accounted for the other two scores - and held up physically for over a quarter with Minnesota's bruising attack.
For the Aggies to compete in such a contest - again, against a Big Ten team that entered the evening as 16-point favorites - they had to play as close to perfect as possible.
And when one considers some of the events that unfolded: NMSU's slow start offensively; Minnesota's 65-yard punt-return touchdown to make the score 27-7 going into halftime; two failed fourth-down attempts for the Aggies, both coming in the second half with the team trailing 30-14; and the turnover which resulted in a Gopher touchdown, it was too much to overcome.
But perhaps the Aggies also learned some more about their football team in an early-season contest against another BCS opponent. Next week they'll take on rival UTEP and the two teams figure to be more evenly matched - UTEP lost Saturday night in a 42-35 overtime affair to New Mexico, a contest that saw the Miners give up 395 rushing yards in their own right.
Aggie head coach Doug Martin has been pointing to his team's rivalry games against the Miners and Lobos since he was named head coach of the Aggies in February. This will be his first crack at one of them, in what figures to be a game NMSU can in fact win.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
Minnesota is a power football team, and a very good one - it showed during the Golden Gophers 44-21 win Saturday night at Aggie Memorial Stadium. Offensively they had a veteran line, and the sheer size and power of that unit along with the team's running backs (Rodrick Williams Jr. and David Cobb), along with quarterback Phillip Nelson, wore on the Aggie defense to the tune of 342 rushing yards on the evening.
Ditto for the Minnesota defensive front, which was headlined by tackle Ra'Shede Hageman. The Aggies tried to run the ball up the middle throughout the night, although that wasn't going to happen on a Gophers team that simply held an edge along the trenches on both sides of the ball.
Truthfully, once the Aggies spread the Gophers out - three- and four-wide receivers sets - and used quarterback Andrew McDonald on quick dropbacks and releases to the short-to-intermediate passing zones of the defense, NMSU moved the ball fairly effectively (the team, after all, did accumulate 356 yards of offense on the evening).
The problem arose with the Aggies hitting their offensive stride too late - midway through the second quarter, already trailing 13-0.
Looking back on the game, the NMSU defense did essentially all it could. Of course the unit gave up 342 yards rushing to the Gophers, although such a turn of events was somewhat expected.
NMSU surrendered just 30 points defensively - a Minnesota punt-return touchdown and fumble-return touchdown accounted for the other two scores - and held up physically for over a quarter with Minnesota's bruising attack.
For the Aggies to compete in such a contest - again, against a Big Ten team that entered the evening as 16-point favorites - they had to play as close to perfect as possible.
And when one considers some of the events that unfolded: NMSU's slow start offensively; Minnesota's 65-yard punt-return touchdown to make the score 27-7 going into halftime; two failed fourth-down attempts for the Aggies, both coming in the second half with the team trailing 30-14; and the turnover which resulted in a Gopher touchdown, it was too much to overcome.
But perhaps the Aggies also learned some more about their football team in an early-season contest against another BCS opponent. Next week they'll take on rival UTEP and the two teams figure to be more evenly matched - UTEP lost Saturday night in a 42-35 overtime affair to New Mexico, a contest that saw the Miners give up 395 rushing yards in their own right.
Aggie head coach Doug Martin has been pointing to his team's rivalry games against the Miners and Lobos since he was named head coach of the Aggies in February. This will be his first crack at one of them, in what figures to be a game NMSU can in fact win.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
Friday, September 6, 2013
5 keys to Aggies vs. Gophers game
Run defense: News flash - Minnesota’s going to try and run the ball tonight. It’s simply the Gophers identity, and when you consider they’re on the road against a team that upset them two years ago in Minneapolis, there’s no need to deviate from such a gameplan. The Aggies, on the other hand, were susceptible to the big play last week against Texas. And while the Gophers don’t have the team speed to that of the Longhorns, they have an experienced offensive line from the Big Ten, along with tough-running quarterback Phillip Nelson. Time of possession will be a key stat in this one, if for no other reason than it will tell us just how successful Minnesota is at executing such a gameplan. With that, holding up against the Gophers rushing attack will be the Aggies’ No. 1 key going into the contest.
Protect ball, finish drives: NMSU figures to move the ball with some success tonight against the Gophers. Last week the Aggie offense had it’s moments against Texas, and expect the team to attack in similar fashion against Minnesota - in the short-to-intermediate passing zones, utilizing quarterback Andrew McDonald and a collection of wide receivers. One thing the Aggies can’t do is turn the ball over (they had three such mishaps last week against Texas, all coming with the team moving the ball). If NMSU holds onto the football, and punches it into the end zone when opportunities present themselves, the team should at least be competitive.
Establishing a rushing attack: The Aggies didn’t get their ground game going against the Longhorns, and to a degree it was expected. Still, they need to achieve balance and get running back Germi Morrison going out of the offensive backfield. Again, time of possession is a stat the Aggies need to win tonight, and no better way to do it than getting their ground game up to speed.
Special teams: Minnesota did plenty of damage last week in this area, scoring separate touchdowns on a kick return and then a blocked field goal during their 51-23 win over UNLV. Aggie special teams played well enough Week 1 against Texas (head coach Doug Martin is coordinating that unit in 2013). This will be an area both teams will look to capitalize on going into the evening, and a spot the Aggies can’t afford to give away points.
Play smart, play to win: During his weekly press conference, NMSU head coach Doug Martin said there were no more moral victories for the Aggie program. Bold words, and perhaps true. Yet if that’s the case, the Aggies need to play a fine football game tonight - again, the defense must step up, the offense must finish drives, and the team will need to be consistent across the board in all phases. Last week the team tried an onside kick to start the second half, and perhaps another trick play or two will be in the offing against the Gophers. Minnesota is a better team than it was two years ago - that goes without being said, as the Gophers played in a bowl game in 2012. While an NMSU win here will be a tall order, it would also do wonders for the Aggie program, particularly heading into their home rivalry contest next week against UTEP.
Prediction: Minnesota 38, NMSU 24
IF YOU GO
Who: Minnesota (1-0) at New Mexico State (0-1)
What: College football game, Week 2
Where: Aggie Memorial Stadium, Las Cruces
When: Saturday, 6:05 p.m.
TV: AggieVision, Comcast channel 4
Radio: KGRT-FM 104; Vista-FM 98.7 (Spanish)
Spread: NMSU +16
Weather: Mostly sunny, high in the low 90s
Protect ball, finish drives: NMSU figures to move the ball with some success tonight against the Gophers. Last week the Aggie offense had it’s moments against Texas, and expect the team to attack in similar fashion against Minnesota - in the short-to-intermediate passing zones, utilizing quarterback Andrew McDonald and a collection of wide receivers. One thing the Aggies can’t do is turn the ball over (they had three such mishaps last week against Texas, all coming with the team moving the ball). If NMSU holds onto the football, and punches it into the end zone when opportunities present themselves, the team should at least be competitive.
Establishing a rushing attack: The Aggies didn’t get their ground game going against the Longhorns, and to a degree it was expected. Still, they need to achieve balance and get running back Germi Morrison going out of the offensive backfield. Again, time of possession is a stat the Aggies need to win tonight, and no better way to do it than getting their ground game up to speed.
Special teams: Minnesota did plenty of damage last week in this area, scoring separate touchdowns on a kick return and then a blocked field goal during their 51-23 win over UNLV. Aggie special teams played well enough Week 1 against Texas (head coach Doug Martin is coordinating that unit in 2013). This will be an area both teams will look to capitalize on going into the evening, and a spot the Aggies can’t afford to give away points.
Play smart, play to win: During his weekly press conference, NMSU head coach Doug Martin said there were no more moral victories for the Aggie program. Bold words, and perhaps true. Yet if that’s the case, the Aggies need to play a fine football game tonight - again, the defense must step up, the offense must finish drives, and the team will need to be consistent across the board in all phases. Last week the team tried an onside kick to start the second half, and perhaps another trick play or two will be in the offing against the Gophers. Minnesota is a better team than it was two years ago - that goes without being said, as the Gophers played in a bowl game in 2012. While an NMSU win here will be a tall order, it would also do wonders for the Aggie program, particularly heading into their home rivalry contest next week against UTEP.
Prediction: Minnesota 38, NMSU 24
IF YOU GO
Who: Minnesota (1-0) at New Mexico State (0-1)
What: College football game, Week 2
Where: Aggie Memorial Stadium, Las Cruces
When: Saturday, 6:05 p.m.
TV: AggieVision, Comcast channel 4
Radio: KGRT-FM 104; Vista-FM 98.7 (Spanish)
Spread: NMSU +16
Weather: Mostly sunny, high in the low 90s
VIDEO: Teddy and Brook Show (9/4)
We preview the Aggies home game against Minnesota, as well as high school football games this weekend:
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
NMSU vs. Minnesota: Depth charts
NMSU Aggies
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Jerrel Brown, Jr. 17 6-0, 190
Jordan Bergstrom, Jr. 11 5-11, 180
LT Davonte Wallace, Sr. 74 6-4, 315
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
LG Isaiah Folasa-Lutui, So. 62 6-3, 309
Spencer Ueli-Faatoalia, Jr. 54 6-1, 308
C Valerian Ume-Ezeoke, Jr. 55 6-3, 295
Alexander Trujillo, So. 69 6-2, 285
RG Andy Cunningham, So. 70 6-3, 308
Abram Holland, RFr. 50 6-2, 270
RT Dada Richards, Sr. 66 6-3, 307
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
WR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Xzavian Brandon, RSr. 19 6-2, 203
TE Perris Scoggins, Sr. 80 6-3, 242
Andrew Dean, Jr. 89 6-3, 244
WR Joshua Bowen, So. 6 5-10, 175
Rayvean Moore, RFr. 86 5-10, 168
RB Germi Morrison, Sr. 25 6-0, 207
Brandon Betancourt, Jr. 21 5-10, 187
QB Andrew McDonald, Sr. 12 6-2, 205
King Davis III, Fr. 3 6-1, 200
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Willie Mobley, Sr. 98 6-2, 282
Mason Russell, Sr. 92 6-5, 260
NT Kevin Laudermill, Sr. 56 6-2, 277
Matt Ramondo, So. 93 6-5, 310
DT Nick Oliva, Sr. 90 6-5, 255
Kalvin Cruz, Sr. 91 6-2, 274
OLB Stephen Meredith, RSo. 99 6-3, 240
Kalei Auelua, Fr. 48 6-2, 240
MLB Bryan Bonilla, Sr. 12 6-1, 240
Josh Smith, Sr. 24 6-0, 227
MLB Clint Barnard, RJr. 13 6-3, 240
Dylan Davis, Sr. 32 6-0, 246
OLB Trashaun Nixon, Sr. 2 6-1, 235
Rodney Butler, Fr. 53 6-1, 212
LC Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Kedeem Thomas-Davis, So. 10 5-9, 170
FS George Callender, Sr. 5 6-1, 205
Anthony Edwards, Sr. 21 6-0, 191
SS Davis Cazares, Sr. 31 6-0, 203
Justin Smith, Sr. 8 6-1, 205
RC Cameron Fuller, Sr. 3 5-11, 175
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Maxwell Johnson, Jr. 18 5-10, 185
Brock Baca, Jr. 41 5-10, 215
P Cayle Chapman-Brown, Jr. 7 6-5, 231
Jake Capraro, So. 42 6-1, 215
KR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Brandon Betancourt, Jr. 21 5-10, 187
PR Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Minnesota Golden Gophers
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Drew Goodger, So. 83 6-5, 265
Linoln Pisek, So. 85 6-4, 265
LT Marek Lenkiewisz, RJr.74 6-5, 289
Ed Olson, RSr. 58 6-7, 309
LG Zac Epping, RJr. 52 6-2, 321
Joe Bjorklund, RSo. 73 6-5, 288
C Jon Christenson, RSo. 63 6-4, 306
Tommy Olson, Jr. 53 6-4, 301
RG Caleb Bak, RJr. 64 6-3, 302
Foster Bush, RSo. 77 6-5, 303
RT Josh Campion, RSo. 65 6-5, 326
Ben Lauer, RFr. 78 6-6, 302
WR Isaac Fruetchte, RJr. 14 6-3, 204
KJ Maye, So. 1 5-10, 197
WR Derrick Engel, RJr. 18 6-2, 187
Logan Hutton, RJr. 17 6-1, 181
RB Donnell Kirkwood, RJr. 20 5-10, 223
Rodrick Williams Jr., So. 35 5-11, 235
FB Mike Henry, RSr. 30 6-1, 231
Maxx Williams, RFr. 88 6-4, 254
QB Phillip Nelson, So. 9 6-2, 215
Mitch Leidner, RFr. 7 6-4, 233
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Michael Amaefula, Jr. 98 6-2, 244
Ben Perry, RJr. 93 6-5, 253
DT Cameron Botticelli, RJr. 46 6-5, 290
Roland Johnson, Sr. 92 6-1, 286
NT Ra’Shede Hageman, RSr. 99 6-6, 311
Scott Ekpe, So. 97 6-4, 281
DE Theiren Cockran, RSo. 55 6-6, 238
Alex Keith, So. 91 6-3, 237
SLB Aaron Hill, RSr. 57 6-2, 231
Nick Rallis, RFr. 17 5-11, 227
MLB Damien Wilson, Jr. 5 6-2, 254
Jack Lynn, RFr. 50 6-3, 234
WLB James Manuel, Sr. 9 6-2, 225
De’Vondre Campbell, RSo. 26 6-5, 225
CB Eric Murray, So. 31 6-0, 194
Jeremy Baltazar, Sr. 22 6-0, 197
S Brock Vereen, Sr. 21 6-0, 202
Damarius Travis, So. 7 6-2, 208
S Cedric Thompson, Jr. 2 5-10, 211
Antonio Johnson, So. 11 6-0, 207
CB Briean Boddy-Calhoun, Jr. 29 5-11, 186
Derrick Wells, Jr. 13 6-0, 206
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Chris Hawthorne, Sr. 36 6-6, 200
Andrew Harte, Fr. 33 6-0, 180
P Christian Eldred, Jr. 94 6-3, 185
Peter Mortell, RSo. 37 6-2, 195
KR Marcus Jones, Jr. 15 5-8, 166
Antonio Johnson, So. 11 6-0, 207
PR Marcus Jones, Jr. 15 5-8, 166
KJ Maye, So. 1 5-10, 197
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Jerrel Brown, Jr. 17 6-0, 190
Jordan Bergstrom, Jr. 11 5-11, 180
LT Davonte Wallace, Sr. 74 6-4, 315
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
LG Isaiah Folasa-Lutui, So. 62 6-3, 309
Spencer Ueli-Faatoalia, Jr. 54 6-1, 308
C Valerian Ume-Ezeoke, Jr. 55 6-3, 295
Alexander Trujillo, So. 69 6-2, 285
RG Andy Cunningham, So. 70 6-3, 308
Abram Holland, RFr. 50 6-2, 270
RT Dada Richards, Sr. 66 6-3, 307
Houston Clemente, So. 77 6-4, 303
WR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Xzavian Brandon, RSr. 19 6-2, 203
TE Perris Scoggins, Sr. 80 6-3, 242
Andrew Dean, Jr. 89 6-3, 244
WR Joshua Bowen, So. 6 5-10, 175
Rayvean Moore, RFr. 86 5-10, 168
RB Germi Morrison, Sr. 25 6-0, 207
Brandon Betancourt, Jr. 21 5-10, 187
QB Andrew McDonald, Sr. 12 6-2, 205
King Davis III, Fr. 3 6-1, 200
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Willie Mobley, Sr. 98 6-2, 282
Mason Russell, Sr. 92 6-5, 260
NT Kevin Laudermill, Sr. 56 6-2, 277
Matt Ramondo, So. 93 6-5, 310
DT Nick Oliva, Sr. 90 6-5, 255
Kalvin Cruz, Sr. 91 6-2, 274
OLB Stephen Meredith, RSo. 99 6-3, 240
Kalei Auelua, Fr. 48 6-2, 240
MLB Bryan Bonilla, Sr. 12 6-1, 240
Josh Smith, Sr. 24 6-0, 227
MLB Clint Barnard, RJr. 13 6-3, 240
Dylan Davis, Sr. 32 6-0, 246
OLB Trashaun Nixon, Sr. 2 6-1, 235
Rodney Butler, Fr. 53 6-1, 212
LC Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Kedeem Thomas-Davis, So. 10 5-9, 170
FS George Callender, Sr. 5 6-1, 205
Anthony Edwards, Sr. 21 6-0, 191
SS Davis Cazares, Sr. 31 6-0, 203
Justin Smith, Sr. 8 6-1, 205
RC Cameron Fuller, Sr. 3 5-11, 175
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Maxwell Johnson, Jr. 18 5-10, 185
Brock Baca, Jr. 41 5-10, 215
P Cayle Chapman-Brown, Jr. 7 6-5, 231
Jake Capraro, So. 42 6-1, 215
KR Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Brandon Betancourt, Jr. 21 5-10, 187
PR Darien Johnson, Sr. 4 5-9, 185
Joseph Matthews, Jr. 5 6-2, 203
Minnesota Golden Gophers
Offense
Pos. Player No. Size
WR Drew Goodger, So. 83 6-5, 265
Linoln Pisek, So. 85 6-4, 265
LT Marek Lenkiewisz, RJr.74 6-5, 289
Ed Olson, RSr. 58 6-7, 309
LG Zac Epping, RJr. 52 6-2, 321
Joe Bjorklund, RSo. 73 6-5, 288
C Jon Christenson, RSo. 63 6-4, 306
Tommy Olson, Jr. 53 6-4, 301
RG Caleb Bak, RJr. 64 6-3, 302
Foster Bush, RSo. 77 6-5, 303
RT Josh Campion, RSo. 65 6-5, 326
Ben Lauer, RFr. 78 6-6, 302
WR Isaac Fruetchte, RJr. 14 6-3, 204
KJ Maye, So. 1 5-10, 197
WR Derrick Engel, RJr. 18 6-2, 187
Logan Hutton, RJr. 17 6-1, 181
RB Donnell Kirkwood, RJr. 20 5-10, 223
Rodrick Williams Jr., So. 35 5-11, 235
FB Mike Henry, RSr. 30 6-1, 231
Maxx Williams, RFr. 88 6-4, 254
QB Phillip Nelson, So. 9 6-2, 215
Mitch Leidner, RFr. 7 6-4, 233
Defense
Pos. Player No. Size
DE Michael Amaefula, Jr. 98 6-2, 244
Ben Perry, RJr. 93 6-5, 253
DT Cameron Botticelli, RJr. 46 6-5, 290
Roland Johnson, Sr. 92 6-1, 286
NT Ra’Shede Hageman, RSr. 99 6-6, 311
Scott Ekpe, So. 97 6-4, 281
DE Theiren Cockran, RSo. 55 6-6, 238
Alex Keith, So. 91 6-3, 237
SLB Aaron Hill, RSr. 57 6-2, 231
Nick Rallis, RFr. 17 5-11, 227
MLB Damien Wilson, Jr. 5 6-2, 254
Jack Lynn, RFr. 50 6-3, 234
WLB James Manuel, Sr. 9 6-2, 225
De’Vondre Campbell, RSo. 26 6-5, 225
CB Eric Murray, So. 31 6-0, 194
Jeremy Baltazar, Sr. 22 6-0, 197
S Brock Vereen, Sr. 21 6-0, 202
Damarius Travis, So. 7 6-2, 208
S Cedric Thompson, Jr. 2 5-10, 211
Antonio Johnson, So. 11 6-0, 207
CB Briean Boddy-Calhoun, Jr. 29 5-11, 186
Derrick Wells, Jr. 13 6-0, 206
Special teams
Pos. Player No. Size
K Chris Hawthorne, Sr. 36 6-6, 200
Andrew Harte, Fr. 33 6-0, 180
P Christian Eldred, Jr. 94 6-3, 185
Peter Mortell, RSo. 37 6-2, 195
KR Marcus Jones, Jr. 15 5-8, 166
Antonio Johnson, So. 11 6-0, 207
PR Marcus Jones, Jr. 15 5-8, 166
KJ Maye, So. 1 5-10, 197
Monday, September 2, 2013
After bizarre opener vs. Texas, Aggie football's 2013 prognosis yet to be determined
As far as college football games go, New Mexico State's season-opening loss at Texas on Saturday was very much a bizarre one.
A contest where the Aggies were shockingly competitive in the first half - leading 7-0 late in the second quarter and trailing just 14-7 at intermission; only to see the Longhorns hit the field with a barrage of big scoring plays to begin the second half - within a seven-minute stretch to start the third quarter, Texas would score three offensive touchdowns from 24-, 55- and 74-yards out.
Texas wasn't done from there either, scoring three more touchdowns in the fourth quarter, one coming on a 25-yard pass and another on a 38-yard run.
The irony of the game: despite the Aggies feeling good about their first-half performance - and rightly so - the No. 15-ranked Longhorns still covered the 42-point spread (winning by 49 in the process).
But here's the point to remember: weird things happen Week 1 of a college football season.
Some examples were a number of FCS victories over the first weekend of the 2013 campaign; Saturday's Aggie game is one to mark down as well; and does anyone remember last year's NMSU opener - a 49-19 win over Sacramento State, one that wasn't a true indication of what was to come during a 1-11 season.
On Saturday in Austin, The Aggies played about as well as anyone could have expected in the first half.
The new offensive scheme looked light years ahead of last year's outfit, with quarterback Andrew McDonald showing he could in fact run the system effectively, the pistol offense in place which led to the quarterback-option run game, and the tight ends getting involved in the passing attack (Andy Dean came out of nowhere with six catches for 22 yards).
Defensively, the Aggies held their own along the line of scrimmage and made some great plays, forcing three turnovers. Essentially, much of Texas' offense came on two long pass plays to close out the second quarter - quarterback David Ash hitting John Harris from 54-yards out and then Ash finding speedster Daje Johnson over the middle for a 66-yard catch and run.
Unfortunately for the Aggies, however, it was a sign of things to come, as the Longhorns blew things open from there.
Of course, Texas' size, speed and depth clearly played a factor as the game moved along. The Aggies could have gotten fatigued, and with fatigue can come breakdowns such as some of the ones we saw defensively.
And lets not forget, Texas really didn't know a whole lot about the Aggies coming into the contest. Again, it's Week 1 of the college football season, and NMSU was breaking in new schemes on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.
McDonald did not play last year (even if he should have) and at no point did the Aggies roll out that style of offense in 2012. Ditto for the defense, which has an entirely different look. It took a first half to adjust, and Texas' thoroughbreds clearly took control from there.
The question is, what Aggie team will we see going forward? The one from the first half, that played with the No. 15 team in the country, or the one from the final two quarters, which looked susceptible to the big play?
Next Saturday Minnesota comes to town, and the following weekend will see UTEP visit Las Cruces. Perhaps the Aggies can compete against a BCS team, or beat a regional rival. Perhaps they can grab a benchmark win in the process.
But there won't be any more surprises either. Over the next two weeks we'll find out a lot more about the Aggies, than we did in Week 1.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
A contest where the Aggies were shockingly competitive in the first half - leading 7-0 late in the second quarter and trailing just 14-7 at intermission; only to see the Longhorns hit the field with a barrage of big scoring plays to begin the second half - within a seven-minute stretch to start the third quarter, Texas would score three offensive touchdowns from 24-, 55- and 74-yards out.
Texas wasn't done from there either, scoring three more touchdowns in the fourth quarter, one coming on a 25-yard pass and another on a 38-yard run.
The irony of the game: despite the Aggies feeling good about their first-half performance - and rightly so - the No. 15-ranked Longhorns still covered the 42-point spread (winning by 49 in the process).
But here's the point to remember: weird things happen Week 1 of a college football season.
Some examples were a number of FCS victories over the first weekend of the 2013 campaign; Saturday's Aggie game is one to mark down as well; and does anyone remember last year's NMSU opener - a 49-19 win over Sacramento State, one that wasn't a true indication of what was to come during a 1-11 season.
On Saturday in Austin, The Aggies played about as well as anyone could have expected in the first half.
The new offensive scheme looked light years ahead of last year's outfit, with quarterback Andrew McDonald showing he could in fact run the system effectively, the pistol offense in place which led to the quarterback-option run game, and the tight ends getting involved in the passing attack (Andy Dean came out of nowhere with six catches for 22 yards).
Defensively, the Aggies held their own along the line of scrimmage and made some great plays, forcing three turnovers. Essentially, much of Texas' offense came on two long pass plays to close out the second quarter - quarterback David Ash hitting John Harris from 54-yards out and then Ash finding speedster Daje Johnson over the middle for a 66-yard catch and run.
Unfortunately for the Aggies, however, it was a sign of things to come, as the Longhorns blew things open from there.
Of course, Texas' size, speed and depth clearly played a factor as the game moved along. The Aggies could have gotten fatigued, and with fatigue can come breakdowns such as some of the ones we saw defensively.
And lets not forget, Texas really didn't know a whole lot about the Aggies coming into the contest. Again, it's Week 1 of the college football season, and NMSU was breaking in new schemes on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.
McDonald did not play last year (even if he should have) and at no point did the Aggies roll out that style of offense in 2012. Ditto for the defense, which has an entirely different look. It took a first half to adjust, and Texas' thoroughbreds clearly took control from there.
The question is, what Aggie team will we see going forward? The one from the first half, that played with the No. 15 team in the country, or the one from the final two quarters, which looked susceptible to the big play?
Next Saturday Minnesota comes to town, and the following weekend will see UTEP visit Las Cruces. Perhaps the Aggies can compete against a BCS team, or beat a regional rival. Perhaps they can grab a benchmark win in the process.
But there won't be any more surprises either. Over the next two weeks we'll find out a lot more about the Aggies, than we did in Week 1.
Follow me on Twitter @TeddyFeinberg
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