Category: UNLV

Air Force at New Mexico: Can the Falcons beat the Lobos?

Air Force at New Mexico: Can the Falcons beat the Lobos? Can Air Force win their sixth straight against New Mexico? Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire WEEK 6: Air Force Falcons 1-4 (0-2 Mountain West) vs. New Mexico Lobos 1-4 (0-1 Mountain West) WHEN: …

Air Force at New Mexico: Can the Falcons beat the Lobos?

Can Air Force win their sixth straight against New Mexico?

Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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WEEK 6: Air Force Falcons 1-4 (0-2 Mountain West) vs. New Mexico Lobos 1-4 (0-1 Mountain West)

WHEN: Saturday, October 12th, 5 p.m. MT

WHERE: University Stadium, Albuquerque, NM

TV: truTV/MAX
JB Long, play by play
Mike Golic, Jr., analyst
Bridget Howard, reporter

SERIES HISTORY: Air Force leads the overall series, 26-14

GAME NOTES (PDF): Air Force | New Mexico

 

It’s already Week six, and either the Falcons or Lobos are going to find themselves in the win column in Conference play by Sunday. While both teams are winless in Mountain West play, Air Force is already two games in the hole, while New Mexico has suffered just one loss, coming from their matchup against Fresno State a few weeks back. You always want to win Conference games, but for two programs that could really use the extra practices for player development that come from a Bowl week, losing a fifth game on the year before week seven would all but end any dreams of a post season game.

The Lobos didn’t exactly enter the 2024 campaign labeled as Conference contenders, but this team is plenty interesting. They brought in a very established coach in Bronco Mendenhall, who by the way is 5-1 in his career against Air Force. New Mexico also had a massive influx of transfers with the coaching change, bringing in 42 players from other programs. Sprinkle in 11 returning starters, playmakers like Luke Wysong, Tavian Combs (injured) and Devon Dampier, and you can see why there is plenty of intrigue in Albuquerque.

Not all that different from the Lobos, Air Force had a massive roster overhaul. Now, the nature of the changes to their personnel, and certainly the way which they are limited to address it are in stark contrast. As most are aware, the Military Academies don’t have the benefit of the transfer portal, nor do they have conventional redshirt opportunities to develop their players. Now as some, and they will say that no transfer portal is an advantage as it is one less thing to worry about. That reality is highly debatable though.

Having 30 players now, who have started games for their first time this year, it’s fair to say the luxury of dipping into the pool might not of been a bad option to have. That is not the reality though. The harsh truth is, Troy Calhoun is looking for answers to a lot of questions, with very limited resources to pull from.

The Air Force offense has been dreadful, the defense hasn’t been a whole lot better, and now they are dealing with a litany of injuries. These are Biblical challenges, right out of the book of Job.

THE TALE OF THE TAPE

When comparing these two teams it’s hard to ignore the discrepancy in offensive production. The Lobos have thrown for nearly 1,000 yards more than the Falcons, are scoring 20+ more points per game and have double the passing and rushing touchdowns that Air Force has. You read that correct, the New Mexico Lobos have scored twice as many rushing touchdowns as the Air Force Fightin’ Falcons on the season. In fact, the Lobos quarterback, Devon Dampier has more rushing yards (333) than any two Air Force ball carriers combined.

Now, it is fair to point out, this New Mexico team has a top 25 scoring offense, averaging 32 points per game. But to be doubling up the Falcons in so many meaningful offensive statistics is troubling.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Lobos haven’t been nearly as productive. New Mexico is giving up more than 240 rush yards, on the way to surrendering almost 44 points per game. If ever this Air Force running game was going to find life, it has to be in Albuquerque.

CONCLUSION

Everyone is down on the Falcons right now. Rightfully so, as they haven’t inspired a lot of confidence with their on field play. Unfortunately for Air Force, injuries haven’t made rebounding from their third consecutive loss any easier.

It’s hard to believe the real perspective of this game is focusing on all the things that have to go the Falcon’s way, to give this team a chance. A chance against a one-win New Mexico Lobo’s team. But that that’s where we are right now. It’s about doing the little things right, and building on those small things.

 

It goes without saying, the offense has to be turnover free if Air Force wants to win this game. But they also have to avoid those drive killing penalties, which have started to rear far too often. And whether it’s Quentin Hayes or John Busha under center, the mesh point, pitch and exchange must be clean. This team has fumbled the ball eight times already, somehow they’ve lost just two of those fumbles. They should not try their “fumble luck”.

The real problem I suspect in this game is going to be the playmaking ability of New Mexico’s offense. Specifically, the off-schedule ability of Devon Dampier to make plays. He has thrown six picks on the year, so the defense needs to be very opportunistic when better discretion is compromised. The defense really must be assignment sound as well. This Falcon team looks less athletic and is far less experienced than teams of past, so the details and mental aspects of the game are imperative. Otherwise they are going to find themselves chasing athletes that they simply aren’t going to be able to match up well with.

There simply isn’t enough going well for Air Force to suggest they are going to beat a team with scoring potential. The offense, and the run game in particular need a jolt, and maybe giving Quentin Hayes a little more run under center can provide that. But if the line isn’t able to control the line of scrimmage, it doesn’t matter who is under center. That is why the game within the game is going to be so important this week.

You want to win every game you play. You are used to winning games against New Mexico. But if we are being honest about who this team is to date, there are no guaranteed wins. That’s why it is so important that the running game finds itself this week. They weren’t successful against what was statistically a very bad Wyoming team. Well, here is another chance to find some confidence. As the running game goes, so too does this team. A healthy rushing attack gives the defense relief, reducing the number of possessions of the opposition. Not to mention, it can downright wear out an opponent physically and mentally. Focus on finding your game Air Force, the results will come. I just don’t know it’s going to be the results we are hoping for yet, not this week anyways.

New Mexico 31 – Air Force 21

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Air Force vs. Navy: Simulation and Prediction

Our Simulations Says Navy Wins 14-7 Can Air Force Prove Our Simulation Wrong? Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire WEEK 5: Air Force Falcons 1-3 (0-2 Mountain West) vs. Navy Midshipmen 4-0 (3-0 AAC) WHEN: Saturday, October 5th, 10 a.m. MT WHERE: Falcon …

Our Simulations Says Navy Wins 14-7

Can Air Force Prove Our Simulation Wrong?

Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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WEEK 5: Air Force Falcons 1-3 (0-2 Mountain West) vs. Navy Midshipmen 4-0 (3-0 AAC)

WHEN: Saturday, October 5th, 10 a.m. MT

WHERE: Falcon Stadium (Colorado Springs, CO)

TV: CBS
Rich Waltz, play by play
Ross Tucker, analyst
Tiff any Blackmon, reporter

SERIES HISTORY: Air Force leads the overall series, 34-22

GAME NOTES (PDF): Air Force | Navy

To this point, the 2024 season has Air Force and Navy at opposite ends of the success spectrum. The Mids have come out the gates blazing, taking care of business against lesser competition, while stacking a huge win against pre-season AAC favorite, Memphis.

The Falcons on the other hand, have struggled in every conceivable fashion to start the FBS portion of their schedule. Now losers of three straight, Troy Calhoun’s squad will need an unprecedented jump in play if they want to stop the bleeding and avoid an early elimination from the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy race.

If you are interested in a little more detailed look at these two schools and what has transpired to this point in the season, check out our work from earlier in the week. Air Force vs. Navy: A Look at the Academies

OUR SIMULATION

To add a wrinkle to this week’s preview, we’ve used the new College Football 25 game, from EA Sports to help project the winner.

In our simulation, Navy took down Air Force in a low scoring affair, winning 14-7. The ultimate decider was a Colin Ramos fumble return for a touchdown to give the Mids the lead and secure victory.

Statistics were rather pedestrian, as both quarterbacks threw for just over 50 yards. Neither team eclipsed 200 yards of total offense. I don’t think the EA Sports game got the memo yet, Blake Horvath and the Navy offense is a force to be reckoned with.

EXPECTATIONS FOR SATURDAY

Last year, the Air Force defense imposed their will on Navy. Defensively, they weren’t relenting a foot, much less a yard. Don’t be fooled by the final score, that was really done in mop-up time to end the game. The Mids were never a real threat to score on an outstanding Falcon defense, much less a threat to win the game.

Offensively for Air Force, a big pass play from Zach Larrier to Dane Kinamon is the marque explosive offensive play from the game. Unfortunately for the Falcons, neither player has eligibility left, nor do any of last years starting offensive lineman.

2024 projects to be very different. Navy quarterback, Blake Horvath, is top ten nationally in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, and yards per carry. Not to mention, the guy has been carving teams up with his arm as well. The Mids have their offense hitting on all cylinders, and it actually looks a lot like some of the dynamic Air Force offenses from seasons past.

This years offense doesn’t mark even the slightest resemblance to that of the past, nor this years Naval Academy unit. Maybe with time and more experience, things will start to click. But as it stands, this is one of the least productive offenses in the country, and stunningly, much of it has to do with their inability to run the ball.

It’s not as if Navy has featured an iron-clad defense. To the contrary, they have surrendered points. But the Falcons have yet to figure things out, even against a very underwhelming Wyoming team. These are all ingredients to another year absence of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy.

Games between these Military schools are always different. It is often said, and it’s just as often true. But the lack of any sign of life that suggest Air Force could threaten to score points at a clip that rivals Navy at this point would be nothing short of hope or optimism. There will be an “Ah ha” moment at some point for this Falcon offense. Maybe not to the extent we are used to seeing, but potential to improve is certainly there. I’m just not sure it’s this week, nor in the form of potential that can rival the team opposite them.

Navy has the standout quarterback, rolls two deep with outstanding fullbacks in Alex Tecza and Daba Fofana, and they are flanked by an outstanding playmaker in Eli Heidenreich. There are just too many weapons to contend with.

Navy 24- Air Force 13

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Air Force vs. Navy Week: A look at the Academies

Air Force vs. Navy Week: A look at the Academies Two Programs Heading in Opposite Directions Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire It is officially Air Force versus Navy week! The first round in the three-team battle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy …

Air Force vs. Navy Week: A look at the Academies

Two Programs Heading in Opposite Directions

Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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It is officially Air Force versus Navy week! The first round in the three-team battle for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy kicks off this Saturday in Colorado Springs. One of the great traditions in all of sports, the Falcons once dominated this series and were stingy possessors of the coveted trophy, securing it 21 times. Compare that to Navy’s 16 and Army’s 10*, and you could be fooled into thinking all is well at the Springs.

Not so much.

Despite having an overwhelmingly better season win total than Navy and Army the last few years, the CiC has become elusive to the Falcons, who last won the series in 2022. By contrast, Army has won the CiC five out of the last seven years. To put that into perspective, they started playing this series in 1972, and the Black Knights have secured the trophy five* of their 10* times in the last seven years. Impressive or disgusting? It depends on which of the three camps you stand.

And if your curious about the asterisk (*) by Army’s win total, do a quick internet search using the terms “Army Football Suspended Honor Code”. Or you can click here.

 

EXPERIENCE FUELS SUCCESS

The contrast between Navy and Air Force in 2024 has become blaring. Much of this is due in part because of the great progress Head Coach Brian Newberry and the Mids have made from last year. And if we’re being honest, there has to be a ton of credit given to their offensive coordinator, Drew Cronic. What he’s done with the development of the Mids offense under the controls of quarterback Blake Horvath is impressive to say the least.

Horvath is getting a ton of recognition this season, and rightfully so. He currently leads the American Athletic Conference in rushing and total touchdowns. If you have been following Navy for the past few years, basically since Malcolm Perry departed the program, then you know how desperate they have been for consistent quarterback play. As an Air Force fan, you have got to appreciate this challenge.

Horvath’s ascension and spectacular play should present a perfect case study for optimism among the Falcon faithful. The Navy quarterback was mired in a carousel of players rising and then falling down the depth chart in 2023. With the graduation of Tai Lavatai and Xavier Arline, Horvath entered this season with a clear path to take the reigns as the starter, despite a rocky 2023. And the investment has paid off. Take a look at the year over year progress from the Mids quarterback courtesy of Sports-Reference.

PASSING Season G Cmp Att Cmp% Yds TD Int Y/G Rate
2023 4 6 12 50 84 2 0 21 164
2024 4 30 44 68.2 637 7 1 159 238
Career 8 36 56 64.3 721 9 1 90.1 222
RUSHING Season G Att Yds Y/A TD Y/G
2023 4 37 183 4.9 0 45.8
2024 4 47 450 9.6 8 113
Career 8 84 633 7.5 8 79.1

Now looking at the Air Force quarterback situation, the production is a stark contrast. John Busha has started all four games this season, and if we are being honest, the offense hasn’t exactly flourished. But look at what Horvath’s production was in his first four starts, and it’s eerily similar. I am not saying Busha is poised to have the same type of breakout in production, definitely not. But what I am suggesting is, it takes time. And you cannot discount the reality of what an impact the pieces around the quarterback position makes.

Air Force is breaking new pieces at every position around Busha, basically. Navy took their lumps the past few years, but now have experience and skill surrounding their quarterback. Skill all over the field is a luxury that the Falcons have enjoyed for years, up until 2024. Now it’s their turn to take some lumps before molding the next core of Cadets to lead the program to another resurgence.

 

SPOILED BY SUCCESS

When you think about the challenge that this season has become for Air Force, it should be a healthy reminder of just how good they have been for some time. Very few teams in the nation have won as many games year after year as the Falcons have in the past five seasons. Navy by comparison, had fallen on very hard times before the promise of 2024. Their four wins to date, match or exceed their season win total for four of the past six seasons. Air Force won 9 or more games in that same span, winning 11 twice and 10 another. That is the kind of success that is incredibly hard to sustain, and equally impressive. Unfortunately, it also makes hard times that much more difficult. But perspective is worth bearing in mind.

In case your wondering, success over that period of time has included a fantastic run against Power Five (now Power Four) programs. The Falcons suffered their first loss to a school in the P4 over that same span, this year. Take a look at how the Academies have fared against P4 and P5 over the same period.

The Academies vs. P4 and P5 since 2018 season.

Air Force 4-1

Army 0-11

Navy 1-5

Full disclosure, for Navy in particular, there are a lot of really difficult matchups in those five losses, nearly all coming at the hands of Notre Dame.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

I think what makes this season’s rocky start so much more challenging is the success that Army and Navy have had. The Falcons have been a winning machine, closing with Bowl victories like clockwork for the past few seasons, and it’s gone relatively unnoticed by the National media.

Army and Navy are 1/3 of the way through this season, and their promising start has made them the darlings of much of the same media that has ignored the shear dominance that Air Force has exhibited on a yearly basis.

This coaching staff and program have shown a knack for rebounding and doing so with a statement and staying power. Let’s see if Troy Calhoun and crew and accelerate that rebound, starting October 5th against their rivals from Annapolis.

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Air Force at Wyoming: Can the Falcons defeat the Pokes?

Air Force at Wyoming: Can the Falcons defeat the Pokes? Will either team be able to find their scoring touch? Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire The Falcons look to rebound fresh off of their bye-week WEEK 4: Air Force Falcons 1-2 (0-1 Mountain West) …

Air Force at Wyoming: Can the Falcons defeat the Pokes?

Will either team be able to find their scoring touch?

Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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The Falcons look to rebound fresh off of their bye-week

WEEK 4: Air Force Falcons 1-2 (0-1 Mountain West) vs. Wyoming Cowboys 0-4 (0-0 Mountain West)

WHEN: Saturday, September 28th, 6 p.m. MT

WHERE: War Memorial Stadium (Laramie, WY)

TV: CBS Sports Network
Rich Waltz, play by play
Robert Turbin, analyst
Amanda Guerra, reporter

SERIES HISTORY: Air Force leads the overall series, 31-27-3

GAME NOTES (PDF): Air Force | Wyoming

 

It’s hard to believe we are already a quarter of the way through the college football season. Yet with plenty left on the schedule, Saturday’s matchup looks dire for two programs desperate for a win.

Prior to losing their last two matchups, Air Force did win their season opener, albeit in less-than-spectacular fashion against Merrimack College. Maybe they should be glad it wasn’t against stiffer FCS competition, because Wyoming wasn’t as fortunate on their home turf, losing to an old familiar foe, the Idaho Vandals. With just a single win between these two programs, something has to give on Saturday.

SIMILAR STRUGGLES

There are a lot of similarities between the Falcons and Pokes in this young season. In most years, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In 2024 thus far, it is company that shouldn’t be preferred. Inability to score points, beatings at the hands of a Big12 team and shaky play from what was anticipated to be very steady kicking games. All is not well North, nor South on I-25.

Both teams have struggled immensely on offense. A lot of attention will be given to their respective quarterback play when diagnosing their offensive woes, and rightfully so. Both John Busha and Evan Svoboda are in their first year as starting signal callers, and they have not gotten the kind of support from their surrounding cast that you would hope for, when breaking in a new quarterback.

In Busha’s case, he is one of what are now 24 players on the Falcons who have made their first career start this season. This is the most nationally, and no surprise a factor when you consider the teams early season struggles. This week’s depth chart still lists Busha as the starter, and if the offense is going to start to find their stride, he’s got to take better care of the ball and make quicker decisions. Two things that are made much easier when you enjoy the luxury of an elite offensive line and experienced personnel at the skill positions. Maybe that will be the case in time, but right now, they are trying to figure things out.

This is not the Falcon offense of 2023. Nor should it be expected with all of the aforementioned turnover and new starters. I also don’t think it was a unit expected to rank 130th or worse nationally in Scoring Offense, Total Offense, Pass Efficiency or First Downs. For context, there are 133 teams in the FBS, and Air Force is dead last in Passing Offense, Pass Efficiency and First Downs. While Air Force usually is near the bottom nationally in passing offense (yards), that is typically because they are leading the nation in rushing offense. Not even close this year, as the ground game hasn’t quite found its way. And to be last in Pass Efficiency and First Down is unheard of for an Air Force Falcons team. These are hard times the offense has fallen on.

“Hard Times” sounds like it could be an old song played around the campfire. Which would be fitting because the Cowboys are singing it as well. They too rank outside of the top 130 nationally in Scoring Offense, Total Offense and Passing Efficiency. It should be worth mentioning though, their red-zone offense is tied for first nationally. While trips to the red-zone haven’t come often for the Pokes, they’ve made them count.

As bad as things have been on the offensive side of the ball in Laramie, the defense hasn’t been a whole lot better. This is much more surprising when you look at the personnel they have on that side of the ball. Wyoming was a stout defensive team under Craig Bohl, and that same expectation was there with new head coach Jay Sawvel. Unfortunately for the Pokes, this year’s team does not resemble those of the past, defensively. And boy could they use some of that juice right now.

 

Air Force has not fared much better, statistically at least. Don’t be fooled by Baylor scoring 31 points though. The defense was left on the field way too long, for far too many drives. After enough punts and turnovers, the levee broke, and much of that damage came in the fourth quarter. Were it not for stellar performances the previous two games, San Jose State may have routed the Falcons, and they very well may have suffered a similar fate as Wyoming, losing to an FCS opponent in the opener.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN LARAMIE

At risk of sounding redundant, anyone familiar with the production that Air Force lost from last years roster knew this would be a transition year. For the Falcons, it’s more about deciphering what a transition from a perennial 9 or 10-win team is. It is still too early to tell, especially with injuries starting to pile up on an already taxed roster. But if this team wants to make a push towards being in Bowl contender conversations by years end, this is the game to stack one in the win column. A loss makes the trajectory look eerily similar to that forgettable 2012 season.

These are typically low scoring affairs between Air Force and Wyoming, even in years which they’ve featured more prolific offenses. Traveling to Laradise has also proven to be a problem for some very good Falcon teams. Points are going to be at a premium, I don’t care what Bet ESPN says, there won’t be 34 points scored in this game. They somehow have Air Force favored by four, even that very well may exceed the point total for this contest.

 

With all the rhetoric around offensive deficiencies, and inconsistent kicking games, don’t sleep on the other aspect of special teams. Something to watch out for if you are Air Force, is the kick return game of Wyoming. Tyler King has already returned one to the house, and this is exactly the kind of game where field position from a strong return can affect the outcome.

Another thing to watch out for is points off of turnovers. Air Force forced three turnovers against both Baylor and Merrimack. Wyoming is near the bottom nationally in turnover margin and turnovers gained. It’s not as if the Falcons have been pristine with ball protection either, now would not be the time to help improve the Cowboys standing in this statistical area.

A fumble return for a touchdown, pick six or a special teams score could loom very large in a game like this. Even with a less than impressive showing by the Wyoming defense to date, there is a history that suggest they aren’t going to surrender yards in this game, and there are a number of players on that defense that may be able to validate that. Especially when you look in the trenches.

It’s crazy to say your optimistic coming off of a performance that your offense didn’t score a single touchdown, but I’m going to say it. Their last game saw the most productive rushing attack of the season, and the more players like Kemper Hodges, Cade Harris and Aiden Calvert can get a little daylight, you should see continued growth of the offense. I just don’t know that we will see enough improvement to say with confidence this team is going to find the endzone with any consistency. Not yet anyways.

Laramie has been inhospitable, and don’t expect that to change, regardless of Wyoming’s record. I have to see more from the Air Force offense to feel really confident in wins going forward. This happens to be a game that even if the offense were in a better place, it’s hard to predict a Falcon win traveling to Laradise.

Look for another low scoring affair. I’m anxious to be wrong, so let’s make it happen Air Force.

Air Force 9 – Wyoming 13

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Basketball Preseason Series: Best Passers

Contact/Follow @aztecbreakdown Over the weeks leading up to the season Mountain West Wire will be looking at the best players at different aspects of the game. As basketball has become more and more positionless it’s more about being the best at …

 

Contact/Follow @aztecbreakdown

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Over the weeks leading up to the season Mountain West Wire will be looking at the best players at different aspects of the game. As basketball has become more and more positionless it’s more about being the best at specific skills than it is being the best at a certain position.

For previous articles, look here:

Best Scorers

Best Rebounders

One of the best attributes any player can have is to make their teammates better. Usually that is accomplished through passing the ball. Getting a teammate the ball in the right spot, at the right time, helps the teammate be more efficient. It’s easier to hit a three point shot off the catch than it is to hit one off the dribble. It’s easier for a big man to score when rolling to the basket and receiving a pocket pass than it is for a big man to score when posting up. Great passers also have cumulative teamwide effects of helping all players feel involved in the offense, making them try harder both offensively as well as defensively. Big men are more likely to run to rim run in transition if they believe they’ll get rewarded for their efforts by getting the ball. Cutters are more likely to cut hard off the ball if they believe that there’s a chance they’ll get the ball for an easy layup or open jump shot. And when players are engaged offensively, it often results in better defensive engagement as well. So a great passer can really elevate the ceiling of a team to be higher than the sum of its parts. 

One lesser known metric that will be used to evaluate the players is called Box Creation. It takes box score stats and estimates the number of shots a player creates for their teammates on a per 100 possession basis. So a score of seven means that for every 100 possessions a player played, they created seven shots for their teammates. It is similar to potential assists, although it includes more factors, such as the gravity a player generates to help them create for others.

With the importance of good passers established, here are the best passers in the Mountain West this season.

Jordan Nesbitt, Wyoming – Jordan Nesbitt is a type of player that is becoming more rare in basketball. Nesbitt is a great passer despite his relative inability to score efficiently. Most players have a certain bar of scoring that they can use to help draw defensive attention and open up passing lanes. Nesbitt doesn’t have that. Given the lack of scoring acumen, Nesbitt’s passing becomes more impressive, and slightly nudges him ahead of a few other candidates for this list. It helps that he is 6’6” tall and can see over most defenders placed in front of him. His assist rate of 28.7 finished in the top-100 against D1 competition. He averaged 4.3 assists per game on an assist to turnover ratio of 1.7:1. How new coach Sundance Wicks deploys Nesbitt will be a storyline early on for Wyoming fans.

Alvaro Cardenas, Boise State – Cardenas 5.5 assists per game was the 4th best mark in the conference last season. His 2.7:1 assist to turnover ratio made it even better. His Box Creation score of 7.72 was the fifth best in the conference last season, and three of the four players above him have left the conference. Playing for Boise State may result in his counting stats going down as he won’t be necessary for him to generate as much offense, but his passing efficiency should go up as he plays with higher level teammates. 

Donovan Dent, New Mexico – Donovan Dent is probably the best point guard in the conference. His combination of skills make him an elite player, but his passing is next level. Dent averaged 5.4 assists per game last season, and had a season high of 14 assists against Utah State. Add to that a 2.4:1 assist to turnover ratio, and an assist rate that ranked 51st nationally, and it’s hard to argue that Dent isn’t an elite passer. Dent also finished second in the conference in Box Creation with a score of 8.75. Given the potential increase in shooting threats on the Lobos roster, it’s not out of the realm of possibility for Dent to average 6+ assists per game next season. 

Dedan Thomas, UNLV – As far as raising the level of his teammates, Thomas may be the best of the bunch. He is arguably the best tough shot maker in the conference. In the true fashion of a modern day point guard, he uses that scoring ability to accentuate his passing. He’s so good with it that coach Kruger is building the entire UNLV offense around Thomas’ skill set. As a freshman Thomas averaged over 5 assists per game, and had an assist to turnover ratio of 2.3:1. His Box Creation score of 7.58 wasn’t as elite as players like Isaiah Stevens or Donovan Dent last season, but it was still 6th best in the conference as a freshman. His ability should inly improve as his game continues to develop.

Drake Allen, Utah State – Drake Allen has impressive passing numbers. He averaged 4.3 assists per game, his assist rate was the 40th best assist rate in the nation, and he had a better than 2:1 assist to turnover ratio. What is even more impressive is that he accomplished those feats playing for a Utah Valley team that runs a terrible offensive system. He got no help from the system, and little help from his teammates. The team had no shooters, and few threats around the rim. Posting those numbers, given the situation he was in, takes a borderline herculean effort. This season Allen should be even better having players like Ian Martinez and Aubin Gateretse around.

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Air Force vs. Merrimack: How the Falcons can beat the Warriors

Air Force vs. Merrimack: How the Falcons can beat the Warriors Will Troy Calhoun and the Falcons Stay Perfect Against FCS Competition Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire Can Air Force keep on rolling despite replacing most of last years starters? WEEK …

Air Force vs. Merrimack: How the Falcons can beat the Warriors

Will Troy Calhoun and the Falcons Stay Perfect Against FCS Competition

Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

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Can Air Force keep on rolling despite replacing most of last years starters?

WEEK 1: Air Force Falcons 0-0 vs. Merrimack College Warriors 0-0

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 31, 1:30 p.m. MT

WHERE: Falcon Stadium (Colorado Springs, CO)

TV: CBS Sports Network; Chris Lewis- play by play, Robert Turbin- Analyst and Amanda Guerra- reporter

GAME NOTES (PDF): Air Force

 

The wait is finally over, Air Force football has arrived! The last time we saw the Falcons in action, they were pummeling James Madison in the Armed Forces Bowl. This of course was the win to stop a four-game losing skid to end the regular season, which ironically was preceded by a blazing 8-0 start to the year. A lot of ups and downs along the ride to a 9-win campaign.

The reset button has been pressed, and we will be seeing a very different team in 2024. The hope is to have similar results to what Troy Calhoun has been able to manifest consistently in Colorado Springs over the years, but with a lot of new starters.

Historically, the season opener for Air Force has often been an FCS opponent, and with very consistent results. A win. The Falcons are 27-0 all-time against the FCS, while Troy Calhoun has led the team to victory in 17 of those wins. Standing in the way of a 1-0 start to the 2024 season are the Merrimack College Warriors from the FCS level MAAC.

The Warriors were 5-6 last season, finishing sixth in their conference with a 4-3 record. Last years team was led by running back Tyvon Edmonds Jr. who rushed for more than 1,200 yards and collected 10 touchdowns. Well Edmonds Jr. has since transferred to Robert Morris University, who Air Force opened the season against last year.

Trying to fill the void for all those rushing yards this year will predominantly be Donovan Wadley, who is on the Walter Payton Award Watch List. Wadley ran for just over 200 yards last year, averaging over 6 yards per carry on the way to three touchdowns. The belief is that he will be able to deliver at a very high level with the increased opportunities. He is the first player from Merrimack to ever be named to the Award’s pre-season list.

They also return their starting quarterback from last year, Malakai Anthony, who presents as a dual threat. Expect Merrimack to lean on their ground.

 

PREDICTION

At risk of marginalizing their opponent Saturday, the focus for Air Force will be a lot more about chemistry, execution and exiting the game healthy. There are a lot of new players in critical positions that will be getting acclimated as starters against the Warriors. This is the time work the kinks out, before speeding right into Conference play against San Jose State in week two.

Expect John Busha, Dylan Carson and the newly crested offensive line to get to work early and often before relenting to some depth players as the game wears on. The same should be said for the defense with a lot of new guys in the starting line-up, supported by some absolute studs like Payton Zdroik, Camby Goff and Jamari Bellamy.

Colorado Springs is a long way from North Andover, Massachusetts. Thankfully the weather is outstanding this time of year in Colorado, because that should be more enjoyable for Merrimack than the game, unfortunately. It will be good to find their rhythm against an FCS opponent before the competition really stiffens for the balance of the Air Force 2024 calender.

Air Force 38 – Merrimack 9

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What to expect from the Mountain West and friends?

With a few new friends joining an already-enigmatic bunch, this is gearing up to be a very Mountain West-like season . Seven of the conference’s 12 teams will be showcasing a first-year head coach, one of which is returning to the Mountain West …

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With a few new friends joining an already-enigmatic bunch, this is gearing up to be a very Mountain West-like season. Seven of the conference’s 12 teams will be showcasing a first-year head coach, one of which is returning to the Mountain West coach and two of which still have an interim tag attached. Of those two, one is the youngest coach in the FBS and the other took the job so recently that it was his predecessor at Mountain West Media Days. To add to the strangeness and excitement, the 12-team playoff has arrived, providing a clear and defined path to the College Football Playoff. This has given the Mountain West a real opportunity and the stakes have never been higher. If things fall into place just right, the Mountain West championship could mean a chance to play in the College Football Playoff.  

The Mountain West is a tough league but until proven otherwise, it will appear to be a race to play, or replace, Boise State in the title match. The Broncos will have to ward off some formidable suitors. Fresno State, UNLV, and Wyoming will be gunning for a top spot. At the bottom, a trio of Nevada, New Mexico, and San Jose State will be looking to find their footing with the rest of the pack fitting somewhere in between.

Before we take a look at the conference, let’s take a look at the friends of the Mountain West. This year the Mountain West will have some visitors from the Pac-12. Oregon State and Washington State have both taken a beating on and off the field. Left behind as the only remaining members of their conference the two teams couldn’t even field a schedule. The two teams entered into a scheduling agreement with the Mountain West, so even though they won’t be eligible for the title game, they will be playing a Mountain West schedule. 

Washington State

Jake Dickert’s Washington State didn’t get the kindest draw in the Mountain West slate and doesn’t have the easiest non-conference schedule either. 

The Cougars open with Portland State, Texas Tech, Washington, San Jose State, and Boise State before their first bye. Portland and San Jose State represent winnable games, but the other three will be tough and they could pretty easily be 2-3 to open the season. 

Coming out of the bye they will be met with a tough game against Fresno State, at which point the season could be at a pretty dangerous juncture. After what could easily be a 2-4 start, the Cougars would have to win at least four of their last six games against Hawaii, San Diego State, Utah State, New Mexico, Oregon State, and Wyoming. It’s possible, but the path to six wins is a rocky one for Washington State this year. Wazzu should end up between 3-9 and 8-4. 

Oregon State

Oregon State is in slightly better shape and gets a slightly better draw. Like most of the Mountain West teams, the Beavers will be led by a first-year head coach in Trent Brady, who has been coaching defense within the program in some capacity since 2018. He was previously the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. 

The schedule for the Beavers is broken up into three four-game pods broken up by bye weeks. Their first set includes Idaho State, San Diego State, Oregon, and Purdue. Oregon State should take care of the Mountain West portion of that schedule but will have a harder time against the Big Ten portion. 

After a bye, Oregon State will face Colorado State, Nevada, UNLV, and Cal. The Nevada schools stand out in this section of the schedule. The toughest team in this stretch is UNLV while the Wolf Pack will be in a rebuild. 

The final stretch starts with a game against another rebuilding team in San Jose State. Then the Beavers play at Air Force and host Washington State. Then the Beavers close their season on the road against Boise State. The Broncos won’t go down easy, but if the Beavers can survive against Air Force, the Beavers should best the Cougars, and a winning season should be in play even if they drop their season finale. Oregon State could land anywhere from 3-9 (though that seems like it would be a long shot) and 9-3. A record closer to 7-5 seems more reasonable. 

Air Force Falcons

Air Force is Air Force, and that’s just about all there is to it. Troy Calhoun, the longest-tenured coach in the Mountain West by a large margin, has amassed a record of 130-82. In his 18 years, his Falcons have only missed a bowl game five times. In the 13 bowl games they have gone to, they are 8-5. That’s probably indicative of what’s to come. 

The Falcons have plenty of holes to fill with a slew of departures headlined by quarterback Zac Larrier, but in Colorado Springs, it’s just rinse and repeat. The Falcons are coming off three consecutive bowl games and have won ten, ten, and nine games in the past three seasons. So, even with the substantial losses to the roster, anyone who has been watching Air Force for the past decade knows better than to count them out. 

The Falcons open conference play early and will host San Jose State in week two. Their week three matchup on the road against Baylor should be interesting. After that, they get a bye week and proceed with a pretty standard Air Force schedule with games against the rest of the Mountain West, Navy, and Army. They avoid Boise State, but travel to Laramie and host the Bulldogs. Air Force could go 4-8 on the low end or 9-3 on the high end. 

Boise State Broncos

As much as the other 11 teams — and their fan bases — hate to admit it, Mountain West football runs through Boise. This year looks like it won’t be different.

Much could be said about the dramatics of last season and the unlikely rise of an untested coach in Spencer Danielson, but none of that would discredit what is happening at Boise State. In fact, much could be said of the entire program, but not much discourse is necessary to sum up what the Broncos have. That’s all because of one Ashton Jeanty.

Jeanty is, without question, one of the most impressive ball carriers in the nation. He’s the best running back in the conference and one of the most dangerous offensive players. In a lackluster program, he can single handedly make up for deficiencies around him, be it insufficient help on offense or poor coaching. In a competent program, he can elevate the team from good to great and from great to titanic. The Broncos could have done anything this offseason and it wouldn’t matter one bit. As long as Jeanty is in a Bronco uniform, Boise State will be a contender. Boise State should expect to go between 9-3 and 11-1. 

Colorado State Rams

Colorado State is going into year three of the Jay Norvell experiment and it hasn’t gone as well as the Rams would have hoped when they poached the offensive tactician from Nevada. All the Rams have really managed to do so far is sabotage their conference foe on the way to mediocrity (Nevada has gone 2-20 while Colorado State has gone 8-16 since then). The Rams hope that will change this season. 

The Rams haven’t seen a bowl game since 2017, when they capped off a five-year run of bowl appearances, but got just about as close as possible last year. They got within a game of bowl eligibility last season and came up just short of adding that last win multiple times, including a 43-35 overtime loss at Colorado, a 25-23 loss at UNLV, a 24-15 loss at Wyoming, and a 27-24 loss at Hawaii. 

As is standard with Norvell’s teams, the story here will be the offense. Norvell likes to throw the ball around and he has a team that should be able to pass to his liking. Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi showed flashes of being a really high-level quarterback last year and Tory Horton is one of the best wide receivers in the conference. Horton was All-Mountain First team last season and Fowler-Nicolosi earned an honorable mention. Horton was also named to the Preseason All-Conference team this year. 

Overall, the Rams should be able to take a step forward this year. If everything clicks, Norvell, Fowler-Nicolosi, and Horton could create a solid, if not dangerous, offense. The defense, led by linebacker Chase Wilson, should at least be able to keep up. 

An adept defense and a Jay Norvell offense would certainly do the trick in Fort Collins, but only time will tell if the Rams will hit those marks. Colorado State should finish within 4-8 and 8-4. 

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College Football 25: The Mountain West Conference

CFB25: The Mountain West Conference According to EA Sports College Football 25, Nevada and Boise State will play for the Mountain West Conference Championship. Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire Just three empty Saturday’s stand between us and Week …

CFB25: The Mountain West Conference

According to EA Sports College Football 25, Nevada and Boise State will play for the Mountain West Conference Championship. 

Contact/Follow @Sean or @MWCWire

Just three empty Saturday’s stand between us and Week Zero’s slate of games to kick off the NCAA Football season! I know, I know, it’s been a long off-season and we are all yearning for some game action. Well, there is some good news.

Two weeks ago, EA Sports finally released the College Football 25 video game after a decade long absence for their signature franchise series. To say this has been a much-anticipated return would be a colossal understatement. EA Sports sold over 2 million copies of their premium edition, which granted gamers access three days in advance of it’s announced July 19th standard release date.

As a long time enthusiast of this games series, I was one of the 2 million who secured early access. While there is no replacing a Saturday (or the myriad of other days that games are now played on) of Mountain West action, CFB25 provides a nice bridge to the official start of the 2024 season.

Recognizing that not every college football fan has, or will purchase the CFB25 game, we want to share some of the fun with everyone. So here is what we’ve done.

WE’VE SIMULATED THE 2024 SEASON

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Using the Dynasty feature on the CFB25 game, we’ve simulated the entire 2024 football season. In case you’re wondering, Jacksonville State did make the playoff in our simulation as the lone representative from the Group of Five. As if being snubbed from the playoff wasn’t bad enough, the MWC fans aren’t going to be happy to learn that BYU didn’t just make the college football playoff but earned a bye week as well.

So sure, the introduction of the new 12-Team College Football Playoff is exciting, but we’re here for the Mountain West Action! Even though no Mountain West Conference team made the playoff in our simulation, there were plenty of interesting yields from the season.

HOW THE (MOUNTAIN) WEST WAS WON

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Probably not surprising to many, the Boise State Broncos were your Mountain West Conference Champions. Who did they have to defeat to win the championship? Nevada. That’s right, the Nevada Wolf Pack weren’t just Bowl eligible, but were nearly crowned Conference Champs in our simulation.

Joining Boise State and Nevada in Bowl eligibility were Air Force, Fresno State, San Diego State, New Mexico and Hawai’i.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

One of the first things that stood out was the New Mexico Lobos surrendered the fewest points defensively. One of the reasons for the strong defensive showing was their defensive end, Gabriel Lopez who recorded 15.5 sacks on the year. Lopez was third in voting for the Nations Best Defensive End award. It didn’t hurt that Tavian Combs was tied for the Conference lead in interceptions too.

The All-Conference First Team was littered with Broncos, as seven players from Boise State earned spots. Brayden Schager represented Hawai’i well, as he was the recognized as the top quarterback in the Conference. Somewhat shocking, Ashton Jeanty was not the first team running back, nor was Tory Horton an All-Conference nominee at all. However, Jeanty was on the second team, while Horton actually sustained a season ending injury on the simulation. Injury is the only thing that could keep that guy from snagging passes.

It was also interesting to see that three Mountain West quarterbacks threw for 30 or more touchdowns. Malachi Nelson (38), Brayden Schager (32), Devon Dampier (31) and Spencer Petras (30) all cleared 30 tudd’s and 3,000 yards on the year! And not surprising at all, Air Force’s Dylan Carson led the Conference in Rushing yards. Video game or not, get acquainted with that name.

SNUBBED

It was a lot of fun running this simulation and seeing how some of our favorite teams and players fared. But the level of disrespect for the Mountain West was undeniable. No teams in the playoff. Noone ranked in the top 25. And there wasn’t a single player from the Conference recognized as a consensus All-American.

Coaches across the Mountain West may want to print this and hang it up as motivation for the season. Our EA Sports College Football 25 season may have slept on the Mountain West, but we know better. We just can’t wait for the actual season to kick off and do the fact checks!

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2024 Mountain West College Football Schedule

2024 Mountain West College Football Schedule The schedule is out! Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire Get ready for some football! The Mountain West released its football schedule for this fall, without TV schedules so there could be changes. The league …

2024 Mountain West College Football Schedule

The schedule is out!

Follow @JeremyMauss & @MWCwire

Get ready for some football!

The Mountain West released its football schedule for this fall, without TV schedules so there could be changes.

The league includes Washington State and Oregon State which are quasi-members of the Mountain West.

Those two schools will play seven games against the Mountain West but they are not eligible to win the conference title.

Television assignments for Fox and CBS will be released at a later date.

Saturday, Aug. 24

Delaware State at Hawai‘i
SMU at Nevada
Montana State at New Mexico

Thursday, Aug. 29

Sacramento State at San José State

Saturday, Aug. 31

Merrimack at Air Force
Boise State at Georgia Southern
Colorado State at Texas
Fresno State at Michigan
UCLA at Hawai‘i
Nevada at Troy
New Mexico at Arizona
Texas A&M Commerce at San Diego State
UNLV at Houston
Robert Morris at Utah State
Wyoming at Arizona State
Idaho State at Oregon State
Portland State at Washington State

Saturday, September 7

San José State at Air Force
Boise State at Oregon
Northern Colorado at Colorado State
Sacramento State at Fresno State
Georgia Southern at Nevada
Oregon State at San Diego State
Utah Tech at UNLV
Utah State at USC
Idaho at Wyoming
Texas Tech at Washington State

Saturday, September 14

Air Force at Baylor
Colorado at Colorado State
New Mexico State at Fresno State
Hawai‘i at Sam Houston
Nevada at Minnesota
New Mexico at Auburn
San Diego State at California
Kennesaw State at San José State
UNLV vs. KansasUtah at Utah State
BYU at Wyoming
Oregon at Oregon State
Washington State vs. Washington

Saturday, September 21

Portland State at Boise State
UTEP at Colorado State
Fresno State at New Mexico
Northern Iowa at Hawai‘i
Eastern Washington at Nevada
San José State at Washington State
Utah State at Temple
Wyoming at North Texas
Purdue at Oregon State

Saturday, September 28

Air Force at Wyoming
Washington State at Boise State
Fresno State at UNLV
New Mexico at New Mexico State
San Diego State at Central Michigan

Saturday, October 5

Navy at Air Force
Utah State at Boise State
Colorado State at Oregon State
Hawai‘i at San Diego State
Nevada at San José State
Syracuse at UNLV

Saturday, October 12

Air Force at New Mexico
Boise State at Hawai‘i
San José State at Colorado State
Washington State at Fresno State
Oregon State at Nevada
San Diego State at Wyoming
UNLV at Utah State

Saturday, October 19

Colorado State at Air Force
Fresno State at Nevada
Hawai‘i at Washington State
New Mexico at Utah State
Wyoming at San José State
UNLV at Oregon State

Saturday, October 26

Boise State at UNLV
New Mexico at Colorado State
San José State at Fresno State
Nevada at Hawai‘i
Washington State at San Diego State
Utah State at Wyoming
Oregon State at California

Saturday, November 2

Air Force at Army
San Diego State at Boise State
Colorado State at Nevada
Hawai‘i at Fresno State
Wyoming at New Mexico

Saturday, November 9

Fresno State at Air Force
Nevada at Boise State
UNLV at Hawai‘i
New Mexico at San Diego State
San José State at Oregon State
Utah State at Washington State

Saturday, November 16

Oregon State at Air Force
Boise State at San José State
Wyoming at Colorado State
Hawai‘i at Utah State
Washington State at New Mexico
San Diego State at UNLV

Saturday, November 23

Air Force at Nevada
Boise State at Wyoming
Colorado State at Fresno State
San Diego State at Utah State
UNLV at San José State
Washington State at Oregon State

Saturday, November 30

Air Force at San Diego State
Oregon State at Boise State
Utah State at Colorado State
Fresno State at UCLA
New Mexico at Hawai‘i
Nevada at UNLV
Stanford at San José State
Wyoming at Washington State

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New Mexico vs. UNLV: Preview, Odds, Predictions, How To Watch

New Mexico vs. UNLV: Preview, Odds, Predictions, How To Watch Lobos looking to defend The Pit Follow @MWCwire Can Rebels get a road win? The New Mexico Lobos (19-4) are hosting the UNLV Rebels (12-9) at The Pit on Saturday for an important Mountain …

New Mexico vs. UNLV: Preview, Odds, Predictions, How To Watch

Lobos looking to defend The Pit

Follow @MWCwire

Can Rebels get a road win?

The New Mexico Lobos (19-4) are hosting the UNLV Rebels (12-9) at The Pit on Saturday for an important Mountain West Conference game in Albuquerque. 

The No. 25 New Mexico men’s basketball team is set to return home this Saturday for a highly anticipated matchup against UNLV, with The Pit boasting a sold-out crowd. 

Tip-off is at 6:00 p.m., and fans can catch the action live on CBS Sports Network and the local Lobo Radio Network in the Albuquerque metro area.

This Saturday’s game marks the third sellout of the season at The Pit and will also be a White Out event, encouraging the 15,841 fans to deck out in white attire.

 Additionally, it’s the annual Lobos Slam Cancer game, a special occasion dedicated to honoring and celebrating all New Mexico cancer survivors. 

The game will feature a special recognition segment welcoming cancer survivors from the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Sporting an impressive 19-4 record this season (7-3 in the Mountain West), New Mexico enters the game fresh off a commanding 91-73 victory over Wyoming on Tuesday night. 

Game: UNLV Rebels vs New Mexico Lobos

When: Saturday, February 10, 2024

Where: The PIT in Albuquerque, NM

TV: CBS Sports Network

Live Stream: CBSSports.com or fuboTV (Try for free for seven days)

The Lobos are poised for success with four players averaging over 13.0 points per game in conference play, including JT Toppin, who leads the Mountain West with a double-double average in conference games.

Undoubtedly, Richard Pitino’s Lobo squad stands out as one of the most gifted teams ever to don the Cherry & Silver jerseys. 

With over two decades of experience covering various teams, this writer can attest to their exceptional talent. 

Their current 25th ranking and impressive NCAA Net Ranking of 18 are not coincidental or by accident.  

When they execute their signature up-tempo style and relentless on-ball defense, they look like one of the best Mountain West Conference elite teams.

Meanwhile, UNLV arrives in Albuquerque with a 12-9 overall record and a solid 5-4 standing in the Mountain West, riding a three-game winning streak.

 The Runnin’ Rebels, led by the Boone brothers, Kalib and Keylan, have showcased their prowess, with Kalib averaging a team-best 12.4 points per game and Keylan adding 12.1 points per game.

Having secured victories in eight of the last nine meetings, including an 83-73 win earlier this season at the Thomas & Mack Center, UNLV looks to maintain its dominance. 

The Runnin’ Rebels have a 15-15 all-time record at The Pit, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying showdown.

“UNLV and No. 25 New Mexico both enter Saturday night’s game at The Pit in Albuquerque, N.M., after decisive victories against Wyoming.

“The Rebels (12-9, 5-4 Mountain West) extended their winning streak to three games with a 62-48 win over the visiting Cowboys last Saturday.

“The Lobos (19-4, 7-3) bounced back from losing their first home game of the season, on Jan. 31 to Boise State, by defeating Wyoming 91-73 in Laramie, Wyo., on Tuesday night.

“New Mexico, which has won six of its past seven games, is 11-1 at home entering Saturday’s game with UNLV.

“The teams met in Las Vegas on Jan. 9 and UNLV emerged victorious 83-73 — the second-lowest scoring output by New Mexico in a Mountain West game this season.

‘ “We just didn’t have the pop we had in the first half,” New Mexico coach Richard Pitino said of the loss to UNLV, a game in which the Rebels outscored the Lobos 43-35 in the second half.

‘ “It starts with me and our coaching staff to get them ready. Give them credit, they played well, but I know we are better than that.”

“JT Toppin and Jaelen House each scored 16 points, while House also had six assists. Jamal Mashburn Jr. scored 13 points, while Mustapha Amzil had 10 points off the bench. Tru Washington had nine points and tied a career-high with five steals.

“In the bounce-back victory over Wyoming on Tuesday, the Lobos again showed the many ways they are dangerous.

“Donovan Dent led five Lobos in double figures with 19 points, to go with seven assists and a career-high six rebounds. 

Jaelen House had 17 points along with a career-high eight rebounds, while Jamal Mashburn scored 15 points is a great combo guard duo for the Lobos. 

Mustapha Amzil added 13 points has started to get in his three-point shooting groove, while Toppin had 11 points and 13 rebounds for his eighth double-double of the season.

‘ “It was a complete game,” Pitino said. “We did a good job of sustaining it, getting some stops when we needed to and converting on the other end. I thought our guys were so locked in and were mature.”

Throughout the season, New Mexico boasts the 14th-highest-scoring offense in the nation, averaging an impressive 84.4 points per game. 

The Lobos also excel in rebounding, securing an average of 39.2 boards per night, while distributing 15.5 assists per contest. 

Defensively, they maintain an above-average standing, ranking 120th in Division I by limiting opponents to 69.7 points per game. 

Leading the charge in scoring is Jamal Mashburn Jr., tied for second on the team with an average of 15.5 points per game. 

Supporting him are Donovan Dent, contributing 15.7 points and 5.9 assists per game, and JT Toppin, averaging 12.7 points and 8.7 rebounds. 

At times Dent has looked as a player playing on another level, when the Lobos need the spark or that point just at the time the Lobos need it, he produces. 

Additionally, Nelly Junior Joseph and Jaelen House, who average 15.5 points and 3.9 assists, provide further depth and skill to the team.

“In UNLV’s win over New Mexico last month, twins Kalib and Keylan Boone combined for 46 points as Kalib scored a career-high 29 and Keylan added a season-high 17. Dedan Thomas Jr. contributed 14 points with seven assists for the Rebels.

“The Rebels went on to lose three of their next four games before putting together their current three-game winning streak.

“UNLV committed only four turnovers in the win over Wyoming last weekend. Keylan Boone and Thomas led the Rebels with 14 points apiece. Luis Rodriguez added 12.

So look for one heck of a classic college basketball game in the iconic PIT in Albuquerque as the Lobos look to avenge their loss to the Rebels in Sin City.

While UNLV secured a win against New Mexico in their previous encounter at home, they now face the daunting task of playing at The Pit, a notoriously challenging venue for visiting teams. 

New Mexico boasts an impressive 11-1 home record this season, with nine of those victories by double-digit margins. 

The Lobos have already demonstrated their dominance at home, defeating San Diego State and Utah State by significant margins of 18 and 13 points, respectively. 

Although UNLV managed to defeat Boise State on the road earlier in the season, facing New Mexico in this arena presents a unique challenge. 

Expect the Lobos to seek redemption for their earlier loss and secure their 20th victory of the season on their home court.

I anticipate that the Lobos will demonstrate their combined team talent in the high-altitude environment of The Pit in Albuquerque. 

Winning there is notoriously challenging for opposing teams, as the atmosphere becomes electrifyingly loud, and this team thrives on the energy of the crowd.

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