New Mexico Lobos - NCAA Football Odds, Lines & Betting

Things aren’t turned completely in the right direction but they are getting much closer in Lobo Land. New Mexico finished 2006 one game under .500 at 6-7, including a 4-4 split in conference action. Fifth in MWC a year ago, 19 starters are back with sights set on a winning record - eight from the offense and 10 on defense. Junior quarterback Donovan Porterie made five starts last season and is set to take the helm as the fulltime pivot.

In his time under center, he threw for 967 yards and six touchdowns (and was picked off just twice in eight games). Along with their signal-caller, leading running back Rodney Ferguson (1,234 yards), top receiver Travis Brown (867 yards) and senior wideout Marcus Smith return for the Lobos. The pair combined for 13 scores, nine alone coming from Smith. Three of the New Mexico starting offensive lineman were unable to compete in spring ball, and that might affect both the status and depth come the fall schedule. The offense struggled in ’06, ranking 74th in scoring at 21.8 PPG. Throwing for only 205 yards through the air, the Lobos have much to improve upon this fall, but if Porterie can be their guy, then things should improve.

The defense was worse, ranking 84th in yards allowed at 361.8. This unit also surrendered 24.3 PPG and must replace top tackler safety Quincy Black. Defensive end Tyler Donaldson and cornerback DeAndre Wright will anchor this unit in 2007. Donaldson led the Lobos last season with five sacks, while Wright was the leader in interceptions with four. Also check out Ian Clark, who moved from corner to safety to try and make up for the loss of their top defender, Black. Expect another mid-MWC finish for Los Lobos if the defense can hold the fort better than it did in 2006.

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