Washington State Takes on New Mexico in Key College Football Matchup
This Saturday at 9:30 p.m. EST, No. 19 Washington State (8-1, No. 18 CFP) will face New Mexico (4-6) at University Stadium, with the Cougars aiming for a potential berth in the upcoming 12-team college playoffs. With no Pac-12 championship game and no automatic playoff spot, Washington State needs to secure emphatic victories to enhance their postseason prospects.
For New Mexico, a win is crucial to keep bowl game hopes alive as they strive for their first appearance since 2016. The Lobos, under first-year coach Bronco Mendenhall, need to clinch victories in their final two games.
The game will spotlight Washington State quarterback John Mateer, who has been a standout performer this season, dominating national passing statistics. However, New Mexico’s defense, which has allowed an average of 477.2 yards and nearly five touchdowns per game, faces a significant challenge, especially against a player of Mateer’s caliber.
Key players include Washington State receiver Kyle Williams, who has made 42 catches for 691 yards and leads the team with eight touchdown receptions. On the Lobos’ side, quarterback Devon Dampier has been impressive, amassing 902 rushing yards, 2,418 passing yards, and a total of 24 touchdowns.
Intriguingly, New Mexico has not faced a ranked opponent since 2021 and has not secured a victory against one since 2003. With Mateer being the only quarterback in the nation with at least 20 passing and 10 rushing touchdowns, both teams are poised for a compelling clash as Washington State looks to reinforce its playoff ambitions while New Mexico fights for bowl eligibility.
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