New Mexico State Aggies Shut Out at Huntington Bank Stadium by Minnesota Golden Gophers in Season Opener
In the season opener at Huntington Bank Stadium, the New Mexico State Aggies faced a tough game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The Aggies, with a record of 7-6, were unable to score against the Golden Gophers who finished with a dominant 38-0 victory and improved their record to 9-4.
The New Mexico State Aggies struggled offensively throughout the game. With only six first downs compared to their opponent's more robust performance, they found it challenging to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities. The passing game was particularly stifling for the Aggies as they completed just four out of twelve attempts for a mere 53 yards and suffered an interception without any touchdowns. Their rushing efforts did not fare much better; on twenty-one attempts, they managed only 38 yards with an average of less than two yards per carry.
Special teams did not provide much relief either; although none of their punts were blocked or returned for touchdowns, they punted six times for an average of forty-one yards each but failed to pin the Golden Gophers inside their own twenty-yard line even once. Penalties also hindered progress as five infractions cost them thirty-five yards.
On defense, despite making fifty-five tackles and assisting on twenty-six others for a combined total of eighty-one defensive plays, the Aggies could not register any sacks or turnovers which might have shifted momentum in their favor.
The Minnesota Golden Gophers capitalized on these struggles by maintaining control throughout all four quarters. They scored seven points in the first quarter followed by seventeen in the second and fourteen in third while keeping a clean sheet in fourth quarter play.
Looking ahead after this challenging start to their season, fans can mark their calendars for when New Mexico State will take on UTEP Miners at Sun Bowl Stadium located in El Paso Texas. This upcoming game is scheduled for September 11th at 8:00 PM Central Time and will be broadcasted on ESPN+. Fans are encouraged to tune into ESPN+ where they can follow along as New Mexico State looks forward towards bouncing back from this opening defeat.