PHOENIX — New Mexico is seeking a rare piece of history at Chase Field in the Rate Bowl, with a chance to accomplish something the program has achieved only once.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Nov 22, 2025; Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA; New Mexico Lobos running back Damon Bankston (1) runs the ball in the fourth quarter against the Air Force Falcons at Falcon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
The Lobos will face Minnesota in the bowl, marking their first since 2016, when they played UTSA in the Gildan New Mexico Bowl. New Mexico finished this year 9-3 under first-year coach Jason Eck.
Expectations were poor entering the season after a 5-7 finish last year. Instead, the Lobos exceeded them, ranking first nationally in total wins above preseason projections, according to the program.
A victory would give New Mexico just its second 10-win season and its first since 1982.
Nov 22, 2025; Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA; New Mexico Lobos head coach Jason Eck reacts in the fourth quarter against the Air Force Falcons at Falcon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
What was widely viewed as a rebuilding year didn’t affect the Lobos. Under Eck’s leadership, New Mexico emerged as one of the season’s surprise teams, flipping its trajectory and securing a winning record with a chance to make it historic.
The Lobos are also positioned to add another milestone. After entering the season without a victory against a Big Ten opponent, New Mexico can finish 2-1 against the conference with a win.
Nov 22, 2025; Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA; Air Force Falcons wide receiver Jonah Dawson (81) is tackled by New Mexico Lobos cornerback Jon Johnson (12) as safety Tavian Combs (7) and defensive end Brett Karhu (45) defend in the fourth quarter at Falcon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
While Chase Field is more commonly associated with baseball, the Valley could provide the stage for a moment that resonates well beyond the game itself. New Mexico’s rise this season mirrors Arizona State’s in 2024, both as programs that stumbled one year, then surged the next under a new approach.
A lot can happen in a year with 𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗘𝗙.
📈 The Lobos are ranked first nationally in total wins over preseason projections, achieved with the fewest returning players in the FBS and the second-most newcomers. – @KFordRatings
Not done yet 🎟️ https://t.co/S8QpdU7BBm… pic.twitter.com/i6oLmshgiA
— New Mexico Football (@UNMLoboFB) December 14, 2025
For the Lobos, the stakes in Phoenix are clear: a chance to close the season by etching their name deeper into the program record books.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
What does Merrill Kelly’s return mean for Ketel Marte trade plans?
