New Mexico Bowl

Dec. 22, 2007

4:30 p.m. EST, Albuquerque, N.M., ESPN

Prediction: New Mexico State vs. Wyoming

Mountain West vs. WAC

Analysis:

As long as New Mexico State finishes with a winning record, they figure to get the bid to the New Mexico Bowl from the WAC in what will amount to somewhat of a home game. With Chase Holbrook running the show as long as the Aggies show any bit of defense, they should have a winning season.

If New Mexico can't beat UTEP, they don't figure to be much of a factor in the Mountain West race. On the other hand, Wyoming really showed their teeth on Saturday in a win over a BCS conference in Virginia. Karsten Sween could be the best quarterback in the Mountain West.

New Mexico Bowl

Dec. 22, 2007

Prediction: New Mexico vs. New Mexico State

Mountain West vs. WAC

Analysis:

The dream matchup for the New Mexico Bowl committe will become a reality in what will result in a packed stadium. Just like 2006, if the Lobos are bowl eligible, they will be selected for the game. It will be tough just to become eligible once again, though, like last year when New Mexico barely made it with a .500 record. A very veteran squad returns in Albuquerque, which certainly makes things easier for coach Rocky Long. Running back Rodney Ferguson will be one of the main reason the Lobos return for their second consecutive New Mexico Bowl.

New Mexico State finally gets back to a bowl game for the first time since 1960, and the college football landscape will take notice of coach Hal Mumme's pass happy offense. If it wasn't for Hawaii's Colt Brennan getting a lot of attention from WAC observers, quarterback Chase Holbrook would be a lot more well known. Last year's stats speak for themselves, 4619 yards passing, 70% completion percentage, 34 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. Holbrook should be able to match those numbers in 2007 as he returns his top seven pass receivers from a year ago. Of course, the key to winning will lie with the defense and whether they will be able to prevent opposing offenses from outscoring their own.