The Idaho State Bengals are set to travel to University Stadium in Albuquerque, NM, for a Week 2 matchup against the New Mexico Lobos. Both teams are looking to rebound from losses in their season openers. The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM and will be broadcast on MWN.
Idaho State enters this game with a 0-1 record after a narrow defeat against the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels. Despite the loss, the Bengals demonstrated strong offensive capabilities, particularly in their passing game, amassing 395 passing yards. They will need to address their interception issues, having thrown four in their previous outing.
New Mexico also holds a 0-1 record, following a loss to the Michigan Wolverines. The Lobos managed to keep the game competitive, securing 21 first downs, but struggled in their ground game with just 51 rushing yards. Playing at home should give them an edge as they aim for their first victory of the season.
New Mexico vs Idaho State At a Glance
- Game Date and Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM
- Venue: University Stadium in Albuquerque, NM
- TV Channel: MWN
- New Mexico Lobos Record: 0-1 for the season
- Idaho State Bengals Record: 0-1 for the season
- Game Odds: New Mexico favored with a -550 moneyline
New Mexico Lobos: A Deep Dive into Their Game Prospects
Offensive Overview
The New Mexico Lobos have struggled offensively in the 2025 season, scoring just 17 points in their opening game against Michigan. Their passing game, led by Jack Layne, amassed 217 yards, ranking them 68th nationally. However, the ground game was almost non-existent, with only 51 rushing yards, ranking them at the bottom of the FBS.
In the previous season, the Lobos performed better offensively, scoring a total of 402 points. Their rushing attack was a standout, ranking 8th nationally with 3,054 yards. The decline in rushing performance this season could be a significant hurdle as they move forward.
Defensive Performance
Defensively, the Lobos conceded 34 points in their first game of the season, ranking them 25th in points against. They managed to record 2 sacks, placing them 6th nationally in this category. However, their inability to secure any interceptions or significant turnovers may pose a challenge in tightening up their defense.
Last season, the Lobos faced challenges on defense, allowing 456 points and ranking 145th. Improvements are evident in their sack totals and fumble recoveries, but they need to capitalize on creating more turnovers, especially interceptions, to gain a competitive edge.
Key Players and Injuries
Quarterback Jack Layne is pivotal for the Lobos’ offense, having thrown for 208 yards in the opening game. However, Layne’s status is questionable due to an elbow injury, potentially affecting the Lobos’ passing game. Wide receiver Shawn Miller is out, which could impact their receiving corps significantly.
Running backs like Scottre Humphrey and Damon Bankston will need to step up to balance the offensive attack, especially if Layne is unable to play. Injuries are a significant concern for the Lobos, with several key players uncertain or ruled out, impacting both their offense and defense.
Upcoming Challenges
The Lobos have a series of challenging games ahead, starting with a home game against the Idaho State Bengals. They will also travel to the Rose Bowl to play against the UCLA Bruins, a formidable opponent. These games will test the Lobos’ ability to adjust and improve both offensively and defensively.
As the season progresses, the Lobos will need to find solutions to their offensive struggles and capitalize on defensive opportunities. Upcoming games against regional rivals like New Mexico State Aggies and San Jose State Spartans will also be crucial in determining their season trajectory.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU in Night Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U as Underdog: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U in Away Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
Idaho State Bengals Ready to Roar in Upcoming Game
Offensive Surge
The Idaho State Bengals have shown a significant improvement in their offensive capabilities this season. They have jumped to 31 points per game, ranking them 26th overall. This marks a considerable enhancement from the previous season where they averaged only 15 points.
Their passing game has been particularly strong, ranking 12th in the nation with 395 passing yards. This is a major leap from last year’s performance, positioning them as a team to watch in the air.
Defensive Challenges
While the offense has improved, the Bengals’ defense has faced challenges, allowing 38 points in their opening game. This is consistent with their performance from the previous season. Their defensive line, however, shows promise with three sacks, ranking 5th in the league.
Despite their efforts in pressuring the quarterback, the secondary struggled in creating turnovers, with no interceptions recorded so far. Their ability to recover fumbles has been a bright spot, ranking 3rd nationally with one recovery.
Player Spotlight
Quarterback Jordan Cooke has made a notable impact, ranking 1st on the team with 380 passing yards and a passing touchdown. However, his three interceptions in the first game highlight areas for improvement. Dason Brooks, leading the rushing attack, showcased his skills with 132 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
On the receiving end, Ian Duarte stood out with 105 receiving yards and a touchdown. His performance ranks him 1st on the team and suggests he could be a key target for Cooke moving forward.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU Last 10: 0-1 (0.0%)
- SU All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
Looking Ahead
The Idaho State Bengals will aim to translate their offensive improvements into victories in the upcoming games. Their next test will be crucial in assessing their ability to close gaps in their defensive strategy.
With key players showing potential, the Bengals have the tools needed to compete strongly. Their performance in the next game will be pivotal in setting the tone for the rest of the season.
New Mexico vs Idaho State Prediction: Idaho State +13.5
The New Mexico Lobos and Idaho State Bengals are both coming off opening week losses, each with a 0-1 record. The Lobos are favored by 13.5 points, but the Bengals showed a strong offensive effort, scoring 31 points, which ranks them 26th overall. Idaho State’s ability to move the ball effectively through the air (395 passing yards, 12th best) could pose problems for New Mexico’s defense.
New Mexico’s offense struggled in their season opener, managing only 17 points and a rushing attack that was ranked 125th. On the defensive side, they allowed 34 points, which is a concern when facing an Idaho State team that can score. Given Idaho State’s offensive capabilities, they have the potential to keep the game within the spread.
Taking into consideration the point spread of Idaho State +13.5 at odds of -104, the Bengals are an attractive pick. Their passing attack should keep the game competitive against a Lobos team that has yet to demonstrate a strong defense.
Ultimately, Idaho State’s offensive prowess may lead to a closer game than the spread suggests. The predicted final score sees New Mexico edging out Idaho State, 28-24, but not covering the spread.
- New Mexico vs Idaho State Prediction: Idaho State +13.5
- New Mexico vs Idaho State Score: New Mexico 28 – Idaho State 24
