With six returning starters on defense the Lobos should be able to withstand the ground game of Montana State. Offensively, expect UNM QB Devon Dampier to continue to build on his impressive 2023 campaign.

I was leaning toward taking the points, but seeing our FCS football expert Emory Hunt in his preview also taking them has locked me in. An FBS program getting double digits at home vs. an FCS school? Granted, it's one of the best FCS programs and one of the worst FBS teams, but I do think New Mexico will be quite improved this year simply upgrading big time at head coach with Bronco Mendenhall -- who did a decent job in the transfer portal. The Lobos haven't lost to an FCS school since 2011 (nine straight wins). That streak likely ends but don't see more than a 10-point MSU victory. It's believed to be the biggest FCS spread vs. an FBS school since 2013.