Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs New Mexico St. Aggies Predictions October 1, 2026
Western Kentucky will beat New Mexico State, with a projected score of Western Kentucky 31, New Mexico State 28. Rodney Tisdale Jr.’s four-touchdown performance against Mercyhurst gives the Hilltoppers the strongest recent offensive argument. Confidence is low, however, and neither Western Kentucky +2.5 (-110) nor the total of 56.5 offers a convincing betting edge. The official recommendation is Pass.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs New Mexico St. Aggies prediction and best bet
Western Kentucky gets the forecast because its latest passing performance offers a credible route to a close road win. Tisdale completed 19 of 23 attempts for 309 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions in the Sept. 26 victory over Mercyhurst. That accuracy is the central reason to lean toward the Hilltoppers.
The betting decision is less favorable. One productive afternoon against a different opponent is a fragile foundation for pricing this game, particularly with both teams entering at 1-3. New Mexico State also brings a useful third-down passing record. Project Western Kentucky 31, New Mexico State 28, but pass on both the spread and total. There is no official wager.
Odds, game time and how to watch
Time: Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, at 7 p.m. CT.
Venue: Aggie Memorial Stadium in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Broadcast: CBS Sports Network.
Records: Both teams are 1-3 entering their Conference USA opener in the 2026 college football season. Western Kentucky leads the all-time series 2-1.
SportsJaw spread: Western Kentucky +2.5 (-110); New Mexico State -2.5 (-110).
SportsJaw moneyline: Western Kentucky +114; New Mexico State -134. Total: Over 56.5 (-110) or Under 56.5 (-110).