New Mexico heads to Reno with a top‑10 scoring defense and a nation‑leading take‑away streak, but can the Lobos break a 16‑win two‑season record against Nevada?
Key points
- New Mexico’s defense is among the nation’s best at limiting points and yards, with the fewest yards allowed per game (258.1) since 1964.
- The Lobos’ consistent ability to generate takeaways could be a decisive factor against Nevada’s offense.
- Breaking the 0‑4‑1 record in Reno would mark a historic turnaround for the program.
The Lobos arrive in Reno on Friday night at 7:02 p.m. Mountain Time with a scoring defense that ranks ninth in the FBS, allowing just 11.9 points per game, according to the latest metrics released by the program.
Tight end Cade Kieth stands out on offense, becoming one of only five FBS tight ends who leads his team in both receptions (20) and receiving yards (265), joining peers at Memphis, Wyoming, Louisiana Tech and Eastern Michigan.
Defensive Strengths
New Mexico’s ground game mirrors Nevada’s, as both squads feature two running backs who have each amassed at least 485 rushing yards this season, a distinction held by only six teams nationwide.
A remarkable defensive trend continues: the Lobos have recorded at least two takeaways in each of their eight consecutive games, the only program in the country to do so this year.
Offensive Leaders
Historically, the matchup carries weight. UNM has not won a game in Reno since 1942, when the teams tied 0‑0, and the Lobos sit at 0‑4‑1 all‑time in Nevada. The program also seeks to surpass its own two‑season win total, currently at 16, a record set over the past two years.
Special teams boast a nation‑leading streak of 168 games without allowing a kickoff‑return touchdown, a run the Lobos inherited after Kansas State’s streak ended last week.
Reader questions
What is New Mexico’s ranking in scoring defense this season?
The Lobos rank ninth in the FBS, allowing an average of 11.9 points per game.
How many consecutive games has New Mexico recorded at least two takeaways?
Eight straight games, the only team in the nation with multiple takeaways each game this season.
When was the last time New Mexico earned a tie against Nevada?
The teams tied 0‑0 in Reno in 1942, the only tie in the series.
Source: golobos.com
