Through 1 Quarter

The Fresno State Bulldogs were expected to win this one, and so far that’s exactly how it’s playing out. They have jumped out to a quick 7 to nothing lead against the New Mexico Lobos. The Bulldogs took a hit to their ego last week, so a victory here would be a pleasant pick-me-up.

Fresno State and New Mexico both experienced trouble in their last games, but one is bound to make up for it today. Fresno State will have to keep the pressure on with three quarters left to go.

Who’s Playing

New Mexico @ Fresno State

Current Records: New Mexico 3-6; Fresno State 7-3

What to Know

Get ready for a Mountain West battle as the New Mexico Lobos and the Fresno State Bulldogs will face off at 7 p.m. ET Saturday at Bulldog Stadium. Given that these two teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this contest.

New Mexico scored first but ultimately less than the UNLV Rebels in their game last week. The Lobos fell to UNLV 31-17. New Mexico’s loss came about despite a quality game from RB Bobby Cole, who punched in one rushing touchdown. Cole had some trouble finding his footing against the Wyoming Cowboys three weeks ago, so this was a step in the right direction.

Meanwhile, Fresno State entered their matchup against the Boise State Broncos last week without any home losses — but there’s a first time for everything. Fresno State found themselves the reluctant recipients of an unfortunate 40-14 punch to the gut against Boise State. QB Jake Haener had a memorable game, but not in the way you want to be remembered: despite two touchdowns, he threw three interceptions.

The Lobos are the clear underdogs, so they’re hoping it’s the size of the fight that determines this one. Those betting on them against the spread shouldn’t have high expectations for them since the squad is 1-4 ATS when expected to lose.

New Mexico is now 3-6 while the Bulldogs sit at 7-3. Two defensive stats to keep in the back of your head while watching: New Mexico is 201st worst in the nation in rushing touchdowns allowed, with 15 on the season. Fresno State has experienced some struggles of their own as they are stumbling into the matchup with the 189th most passing touchdowns allowed in the nation, having given up 15 on the season. It’s possible one of these Achilles’ heels will wind up tripping the losing team up.

How To Watch

• When: Saturday at 7 p.m. ET
• Where: Bulldog Stadium — Fresno, California
• TV: STADIUM
• Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
• Follow: CBS Sports App
• Ticket Cost: $10.00

Odds

The Bulldogs are a big 24-point favorite against the Lobos, according to the latest college football odds.

The oddsmakers had a good feel for the line for this one, as the game opened with the Bulldogs as a 24.5-point favorite.

Over/Under: -111

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Series History

Fresno State have won two out of their last three games against New Mexico.

• Dec 12, 2020 – New Mexico 49 vs. Fresno State 39
• Oct 20, 2018 – Fresno State 38 vs. New Mexico 7
• Oct 14, 2017 – Fresno State 38 vs. New Mexico 0