New Mexico Lobos vs
Arizona WildcatsPredictions & Preview

Arizona Wildcats Favored to Cover Spread by Double Digits Against Struggling New Mexico Squad in Week One Matchup

In week one of the NCAAF season, the New Mexico Lobos will be facing the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium in Tucson, Arizona. New Mexico finished tenth in the Mountain West Conference last season with a 4-8 record, while Arizona ended their 2023 season third in the Pac-12 with a 10-3 record. The last time these teams met was in 2015, with Arizona coming out victorious. Kickoff is set for 10:30 p.m. EST, with Arizona opening as the betting favorite at -30 and the current line at Arizona -31. For assistance with handicapping, consider trying our NCAAF Picks.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Lobos +2500 | Wildcats -10000
• Spread: Lobos +31 (-110) | Wildcats -31 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 58.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Arizona will win straight-up is 99%.

New Mexico vs Arizona Stats

New Mexico Lobos

The New Mexico Lobos suffered a disappointing loss to the Montana State Bobcats in their season opener, despite a strong performance from quarterback Devon Dampier. The team's defense struggled, allowing 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter. New Mexico's defense has been a weak spot, ranking among the worst in the nation for points allowed and rushing yards. Looking ahead, the Lobos face a tough challenge against Arizona and will need to improve their defensive performance to show progress this season. With a power ranking of 102, New Mexico ranks 64 in offense, 124 in defense, and are currently 0-0 for the season.

Arizona Wildcats Analysis

Heading into the upcoming season, the Arizona Wildcats are facing high expectations, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. Quarterback Noah Fifita had an impressive season last year, throwing for 2,869 yards and 25 touchdowns with a completion percentage of 72.4%. Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan also had a standout season, recording 1,402 yards and ten touchdowns. The team is under the leadership of new head coach Brent Brennan, who previously coached at San Jose State University.

Last season, Arizona's offense ranked 14th overall in the nation, averaging 34.3 points per game, largely due to their passing game led by Fifita. The defense also held its own, ranking 30th in points allowed and excelling in stopping the pass.

In terms of power rankings, the Wildcats are currently ranked 14th overall, with an offensive ranking of 18th. They have a record of 0-0 and New Mexico has a 1-2 record in their last three matchups against Arizona.

Arizona Wildcats Favored to Cover Spread by Double Digits Against Struggling New Mexico Squad

In the last five road openers as underdogs, New Mexico has failed to cover the spread with a record of 0-5, whereas Arizona has covered the spread in their last six consecutive home games. Arizona's potent offense is poised to overpower New Mexico's struggling defense, making it likely that they will score without difficulty. The key question is whether the Lobos will be able to score enough points to keep the game close and cover the spread. However, considering the strength of the Wildcats' defense, particularly in stopping the pass game, which New Mexico heavily relies on for points, it is doubtful. With the additional motivation of playing at home for their new coach and a strong start to the season, I predict that the Arizona Wildcats will cover the spread at -31.

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