New Mexico hosts UTEP in Mountain West conference opener

The University of New Mexico Lobos are set to host the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Miners in Albuquerque this Saturday, marking the start of Mountain West Conference play for New Mexico. This matchup represents a return to conference competition for both sides, as they last met as conference opponents in 1998.

New Mexico enters the game with a 44-33 all-time series lead over UTEP. The Lobos are looking to build momentum ahead of their upcoming bye week, led by new starting quarterback Toa Fa’avae. Fa’avae recently took over the No. 1 quarterback position following a performance against New Mexico State where he recorded 174 passing yards and 57 rushing yards.

UTEP enters the contest with a 1-3 record. Betting odds currently list New Mexico as the favorite with a moneyline of -2000, while UTEP is the underdog at +960. The game is scheduled for a 4:00 PM ET kickoff.