New Mexico State Aggies O:6 D:6
Last season was a humiliating nightmare for new head coach Hal Mumme and the New Mexico State Aggies coaching staff. The numbers don't lie: 0-12 on the season, and a defense that was so weak it finished 116th in the country, bad enough for last place.
On the other hand, the offense broke three school passing records and ranked second in the Western Athletic Conference with 266 passing yards per game. That was offset by the fact the offense also managed 22 interceptions, 78 yards per game rushing, and allowed four sacks a game.
Bet on the New Mexico State Aggies to win the 2006 WAC Championship Title here.
This year the offense receives a boost with quarterback Chase Holbrook and wide receiver Akieem Jolla (Miami transfer) coming in. They'll at least get another two touchdowns per game, so look to the Aggies doubling their offensive output. Head coach Hal Mumme's spread offenses always improve in their second year, so things already look much better.
Defensively, six are returning. Look for the defense to play with extra incentive: a player was shot and killed last season, and they'll no doubt play for his memory. There's increased speed to allow defensive coordinator Woody Widenhofer to implement his defensive playbook. Improvement on defense should happen.
The Aggies could take a step up this season, gaining confidence with some soft games early, and playing tough against the Western Athletic Conference's elite. But the reality is bowling and championships are still a ways away.
