The New Mexico Lobos football team has received an unexpected invitation to the Rate Bowl, where they will face the Minnesota Golden Gophers on December 26, 2023. This opportunity arose when Erik Moses, executive director of the Rate Bowl, reached out to Lobos athletic director Fernando Lovo just hours before the announcement. New Mexico, boasting a record of 9-3 and a six-game winning streak, will play at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix, a venue traditionally home to baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks.
Coach Jason Eck shared the news with his players during a team banquet, marking the Lobos’ first bowl appearance in nine years. The team had initially anticipated competing in the Isleta New Mexico Bowl, which typically takes place on their home field in Albuquerque. The decision to accept the Rate Bowl invitation came as a surprise, especially since the Lobos were considered a lock for the New Mexico Bowl.
“Playing a quality opponent from the Big Ten is a motivational point,” Eck stated. “We split against the Big Ten schools this year, losing at Michigan and winning at UCLA. We want to put our best foot forward, but it’s going to be a huge challenge.” Minnesota, which finished the season with a 7-5 record, has had an unusual year, achieving a perfect home record while struggling on the road.
The Rate Bowl typically matches the No. 6 option out of the Big Ten with the No. 5 pick from the Big 12. However, with both Kansas State and Iowa State opting out of bowl eligibility, Moses sought a more willing opponent. The proximity of New Mexico to Arizona was an added advantage, as it allows for greater fan attendance, particularly during the holiday season. “If people can get in their cars and drive to a game to follow their team, that’s something we care very much about,” Moses noted.
The Lobos have exceeded expectations this season, leading the nation in year-over-year attendance growth. They are one of seven teams from the Mountain West Conference to reach the postseason, alongside Boise State, Fresno State, Hawaii, UNLV, and Utah State. Eck expressed gratitude for the unexpected opportunity and acknowledged the role of the conference office in facilitating the invitation.
Both teams face challenges common in bowl season, including players entering the transfer portal or opting out of the game. Eck mentioned that three Lobos have already opted out: linebacker Randolph Kpai, who is entering the transfer portal, and offensive linemen Trace Edmundson and Jordan Mora, who are leaving the sport and transferring, respectively. “I’m hoping we don’t lose any of our starters opting out,” Eck said. “This game adds a lot of value for our players, especially those looking to go pro or transfer.”
As the Lobos prepare for their matchup with Minnesota, they enter the game with momentum and the determination to showcase their abilities against a formidable opponent. The challenge of competing against a Big Ten team adds a layer of excitement and motivation for the players, who are eager to represent their program on a national stage.
