New Mexico Lobos Set to Challenge San Jose State in Conference Opener

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The New Mexico Lobos, now 3-1 for the first time in 18 years, will face the San Jose State Spartans this Friday in San Jose, California, as they open their Mountain West Conference season. The game is scheduled to kick off at 7:05 p.m. Pacific Time and will be broadcast on FS1, with Robert Portnoy and DonTrell Moore covering the action on the Lobo Radio Network.

After defeating their rival New Mexico State 38-20 in front of a sold-out crowd of 37,440 at University Stadium, the Lobos aim to extend their three-game winning streak. On the other hand, San Jose State sits at 1-3 and is looking to bounce back after a heartbreaking 30-29 loss to Stanford, a game in which they led by nine points late in the fourth quarter. Spartan quarterback Walker Eget has impressed with an average of nearly 300 passing yards per game, while standout receiver Danny Scudero has recorded 33 receptions for 514 yards this season.

The Lobos have not won in San Jose since 1969 and are determined to break that six-game losing streak. Coach Jason Eck understands the importance of this game and aims to leverage his team’s recent momentum. “It’s a critical game for us as we look to establish ourselves in the conference,” Eck said.

Defensively, UNM has shined, racking up a school-record tying nine sacks in their last game. The Lobos’ defensive strategy, led by linebacker Jaxton Eck and defensive tackle Keyshawn James-Newby, focuses on pressuring opponents and limiting big plays. This season, they have continually improved their defensive performance, and they are among the league leaders in sacks.

Conversely, San Jose State is looking to improve defensively after allowing several key plays in their recent losses. “Execution is crucial for us,” said Spartan coach Ken Niumatalolo. “We need to make the plays that count to turn close games into wins.” On offense, Niumatalolo’s squad hopes to capitalize on their offensive strengths to control the pace against a strong Lobos defense.

As the teams prepare for this pivotal matchup, fans are expecting a competitive and high-scoring affair. The Lobos look to continue their successful run, while San Jose State aims to turn their season around. Kickoff is around the corner, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.