Jacksonville State vs. New Mexico State: Key Matchup Insights and Predictions

Jacksonville State University is set to face New Mexico State in a critical college football matchup, aiming to secure a win streak in Conference USA play at AmFirst Stadium in Jacksonville, Alabama. The Gamecocks, currently 2-3, have a victory from their previous outing against Kennesaw State, recording a decisive 63-24 win. Meanwhile, their opponents, New Mexico State, are struggling with a 1-4 record and are looking to halt a four-game losing streak.

Rich Rodriguez, a well-known figure in college football, is leading Jacksonville State. Since joining the team in 2022, Rodriguez has steered them to a favorable 20-9 record. Senior quarterback Tyler Huff is an integral part of Rodriguez’s offensive strategy, accumulating 1,073 passing yards coupled with a robust rushing game of 445 yards and five touchdowns this season. Huff’s dual-threat capabilities pose a significant challenge for the Aggies.

For New Mexico State, which lost their last game 50-40 against New Mexico, Coach Tony Sanchez faces the challenge of countering the Gamecocks’ formidable offense. They have been conceding 35 points and over 462 yards on average per game, with their rushing defense ranking among the bottom in the FBS, offering Jacksonville State an opportunity to exploit their weaknesses.

Running back Tre Stewart, a standout player for Jacksonville State with eight touchdowns and 359 rushing yards, plays a pivotal role in their offensive onslaught. His performance against Kennesaw State was pivotal, featuring four touchdowns. Meanwhile, New Mexico State’s offensive line faces uncertainty with Shiyazh Pete’s potential return from an ankle injury still in question.

Seth McGowan leads the Aggies’ offense, having transferred from Butler Community College after playing a season at Oklahoma. McGowan has shown promise, physically contributing 324 yards rushing and two touchdowns this season. New Mexico State’s receiving abilities are augmented by McGowan’s dual threat as he adds 64 receiving yards.

Jacksonville State’s defense has been adept at creating turnovers with eight interceptions this season. Zechariah Poyser is a key contributor, leading with three interceptions, while Jabari Mack and others bolster the defensive lineup.

The game is slated for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff, with Jacksonville State entering as 20.5-point favorites. The matchup adds another chapter to what hopes to be a competitive college football season just as both teams seek momentum in Conference USA competitions.