The New Mexico State Aggies (10-4) are set to clash with the Fresno State Bulldogs (8-4) in a highly anticipated matchup in the New Mexico Bowl. With the Aggies winning eight of their last nine games and the Bulldogs looking to rebound from a late-season skid, this game promises to be a showcase of resilience and talent. Let’s run through our New Meixco Bowl predictions below.
New Mexico Bowl Odds
- Moneyline: New Mexico State Aggies -182 (BetRivers) / Fresno State Bulldogs +130 (BetRivers)
- Spread: New Mexico State -3.5 (PointsBet)
- Total: 51.0 / Over -110 (PointsBet) / Under -110 (PointsBet)
Game Info
- Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
- Time: 05:45 PM ET
- Location: University Stadium (NM) – Albuquerque, NM
- TV: ESPN
New Mexico State Aggies Betting Trends
- On the road, New Mexico State Aggies are 5 and 3 this season.
- Against the spread this season, New Mexico State Aggies are 11 and 3.
- Against the spread on the road, New Mexico State Aggies are 6 and 2.
Fresno State Bulldogs Betting Trends
- At home, Fresno State Bulldogs are 5 and 1 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Fresno State Bulldogs are 4 and 8.
- Against the spread at home, Fresno State Bulldogs are 2 and 4.
New Mexico Bowl Predictions
The New Mexico State Aggies are riding high on an impressive season, having notched their first-ever win over an SEC team and reaching the Conference USA title game. Despite a loss at Liberty, the Aggies have shown they can compete with grit and determination. Quarterback Diego Pavia, despite an upper-body injury, is expected to lead the charge with his dual-threat capabilities. The Aggies’ offense, which has been explosive this season, will be up against a Bulldogs defense that has shown vulnerability in their late-season performances.
Fresno State, on the other hand, has had a tumultuous end to their regular season with a three-game losing streak and the stepping away of head coach Jeff Tedford due to health concerns. Interim head coach Tim Skipper will have his hands full trying to rally the Bulldogs for a strong bowl game performance. The team will rely heavily on quarterback Mikey Keene, who has thrown for 2,596 yards and 21 touchdowns, and their leading receiver Erik Brooks, to ignite their offense. The Bulldogs will need to tighten up their defense, which conceded 33 points in their last outing against San Diego State.
Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, but the key matchup to watch will be the Aggies’ offense against the Bulldogs’ defense. If Pavia is healthy and performs to his potential, the Aggies could very well continue their historic run. However, Fresno State’s offense is not to be underestimated, and if they can find their early-season form, they could turn the tables. With both teams eager to cap off their seasons with a win, this game is set to be a thrilling encounter.
New Mexico Bowl Pick
The New Mexico State Aggies have been a revelation this season, covering the spread in 11 out of 14 games, showcasing their ability to outperform expectations. With a strong 6-2 record against the spread on the road, they have demonstrated resilience and a knack for delivering in high-pressure situations. The Aggies’ offense, led by quarterback Diego Pavia, has been a force to reckon with, and even though Pavia is nursing an injury, his expected participation could provide the edge New Mexico State needs. Considering the Aggies’ impressive against the spread (ATS) record, especially their 5-0 ATS in their last five games, they have the momentum and statistical backing to suggest they will cover the spread once again.
On the other side, Fresno State’s recent form has been concerning, with a 4-8 record against the spread this season and a particularly worrying 2-4 ATS at home. The absence of head coach Jeff Tedford could also play a psychological role, potentially affecting the team’s performance. While the Bulldogs have the offensive weapons to potentially secure a win, their defensive lapses and the Aggies’ strong ATS trend point towards New Mexico State as the right pick against the spread. The Aggies’ recent form, combined with Fresno State’s struggles, makes a compelling case for New Mexico State to cover in this matchup.
The Pick: New Mexico State Aggies -3.5 | -110 at PointsBet