The New Mexico Lobos football team has secured an unexpected invitation to the Rate Bowl, set to take place on December 26, 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona. This announcement came after a phone call from Erik Moses, executive director of the Rate Bowl, to athletic director Fernando Lovo. The Lobos, boasting a strong record of 9-3 and a six-game winning streak, will face off against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, who finished the season with a 7-5 record.
The invitation to the Rate Bowl marks a significant moment for the Lobos, as it will be their first bowl appearance in nine years. Head coach Jason Eck delivered the news to his players during their team banquet, shifting expectations from the anticipated Isleta New Mexico Bowl to this high-profile matchup. The game will be held at the Chase Field, home to Major League Baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks, rather than on the Lobos’ home turf in Albuquerque.
Context and Implications of the Matchup
Initially, the Lobos seemed destined for the New Mexico Bowl. Their four most recent postseason appearances have all taken place at home. However, with both Kansas State and Iowa State opting out of bowl eligibility, the Rate Bowl sought a replacement team. “It doesn’t hurt that they’re a neighboring state,” Moses noted, emphasizing that local fans could drive to the game, which is particularly advantageous during the holiday season.
The Rate Bowl has traditionally matched the No. 6 option from the Big Ten with the No. 5 pick from the Big 12 Conference. With the unexpected vacancies, New Mexico’s invitation provides a fresh opportunity to compete against a quality opponent from a Power Five conference. “Playing a quality opponent from the Big Ten is a motivational point,” Eck stated, highlighting the challenge ahead.
This season, the Lobos have emerged as one of college football’s positive stories, exceeding preseason expectations and leading the nation in attendance growth. They are one of seven teams from the Mountain West Conference to reach postseason play. Other Mountain West teams include Boise State, Fresno State, and Hawaii, among others.
Challenges Ahead for the Lobos
While the matchup is exciting, it also presents challenges. The transfer portal has become a prevalent issue during bowl season, with players opting out for various reasons. Eck confirmed that three players from his roster have already chosen to leave: linebacker Randolph Kpai, offensive lineman Trace Edmundson, and offensive lineman Jordan Mora. Kpai is entering the transfer portal, while Edmundson is quitting football. “I’m hoping we don’t lose any of our starters opting out,” Eck expressed, emphasizing the importance of this game for player development.
As the Lobos prepare for their encounter with Minnesota, they will need to focus on maintaining their momentum. The Golden Gophers present a formidable opponent, having finished tied for seventh in the Big Ten. Their season included impressive home victories, although they struggled away from home. Minnesota coach P.J. Fleck acknowledged the Lobos’ recent success and the challenges that come with turning a program around quickly, stating, “It kind of draws my attention. It’s really hard to do and takes a really strong culture.”
As anticipation builds for this exciting bowl matchup, the Lobos aim to showcase their improved program against a respected team like Minnesota, while fans hope to see their team make a strong statement on a national stage.
