Getting To Know The Lobos: Q&A With Mountain West Connection

MinerRush: What is the state of New Mexico football heading into Bob Davie's third year at the helm?

Mountain West Connection: The Lobos now have a solid foundation when Davie inherited a program that had hit rock bottom under Locksley. In football with the 20/25 rule it is hard to build a program in two years but Davie has done a good job of recruiting players that fit his system and style of play. Even though the Lobos only won two games last year they were competitive, this year I believe the Lobos will win six games. Under Davie the offense has always carried the team but this year the defense will be able to make a few more stops a game to win the close contests that they lost a year ago.  There are high expectations this year from the community for the Lobos.

MR: How much different will the defense be under former linebackers coach and newly promoted DC Kevin Cosgrove?

MWC: The defense as a whole will be improved I think Cosgrove's experience will help the unit. Also look for them to be more aggressive this year the team has a lot of depth at the DB and they should use that to their advantage.

MR: Who should Miner fans keep on when the Lobos are on offense?

MWC: The oblivious answer would be Cole Gautsche, Crusoe Gongbay, and Carlos Wiggins but I would also keep an eye on #81 Marcus Bundy if he is able to play. Bundy is a big receiver that can stretch the Field. Also #7 Teriyon Gibson is a speedy scat back that has big play ability.

MR: Defense?

MWC: #49 Dakota Cox was a Football Writers Association of America Freshman All- American and the first freshman to lead the Lobos in tackles in 20 years.

MR: Who is UNM's bigger rival when it comes to football: NMSU or UTEP?

MWC: In the past I would have said UTEP but because the two teams no longer play every year it's hard to call it a true rivalry. I can remember when I was a child going to El Paso every other year to watch the Miner and Lobos play.  Last year was kind of nostalgic because it was a reminder of how competitive the series is and with the exception of the Mike Locksley years UNM has dominated the series with NMSU. I hope that teams will renew the series again and start playing on a constant basis.

MR: How much more will Carlos Wiggins be involved in the offense, and particularly this weekend?

MWC: Look for the Lobos to get him involved early on the offensive side he is such a weapon that they can use him various sets and positions.  Last year he only had 13 carries and 13 receptions but I would look for him to get at least 5 carries and 5 targets but I wouldn't doubt if he gets more. 

MR: Whats your overall prediction on New Mexico's upcoming season? 

MWC: I see the Lobos winning 6 games and making a return to the New Mexico Bowl.

MR: If the MWC gave you the option to pick a replacement school for basketball and football if Hawaii does leave, who would be your number one choice?

MWC: I would like to see BYU but at this point and time they content with being an independent. The next choice would be a Texas School, Houston, SMU, Rice, UTSA, and UTEP. The other schools would have an advantage over UTEP because of the television market size.

MR: Saturday prediction?

MWC: 31-24 UNM