The University of Wyoming Cowboys football team will have their first game of the season against the New Mexico State Aggie in Las Cruces, New Mexico on August 25. The Branding Iron was able to talk with Adan Contreras, the Sports Editor of Kokopelli, a student ran publication at New Mexico State University, and were able to learn more about New Mexico State’s football team.
Branding Iron: “What is the history of the football program and how has New Mexico State been doing in recent years?”
Contreras: “New Mexico State is a small school and for the past few years we have been a part of the Sun Belt Conference. This year will be our first year as an independent team. Last year was the first year we went to a bowl game in 57 years ending the longest drought in NCAA history.”
Branding Iron: “What is the atmosphere around the program now?”
Contreras: “The atmosphere is picking up here in Las Cruses. The community is rallying around the team here especially coming off of the bowl victory. Coach Martin (New Mexico State football Head Coach) is definitely optimistic that the crowd will pick up even more this year.”
Branding Iron: “Who are some of the top returning offensive players returning this year?”
Contreras: “The main guy to watch out for this year would be Jason Huntley, the running back. Last year he was the backup, but he had 70 carries and about 500 yards for two touchdowns. In the Arizona Bowl against Utah State he also returned a kick 100 yards for a touchdown. He will probably be returning kicks and punts this year for New Mexico State. He will be exciting to watch this year. Also, wide receiver Anthony Muse will be a key target for quarterback Matt Romero this season. Also, I would watch out for Royce Caldwell in the backfield. He missed last season because of academic issues but he is back this year and should provide a spark from the backfield as well.”
Branding Iron: “On the defensive side of the ball who are some of the top guys returning there?”
Contreras: “On the defensive side of the ball we have strong safety Shamad Lomax is a guy to look out for and so is strong side linebacker Terril Hanks. Those are two guys I would say Coach Martin will be relying on to captain the defensive side of the ball. Our front four are a little bit young but the backers and secondary should be solid.”
Branding Iron: Overall what are your thoughts of this upcoming game?
Contreras: “I know Coach Martin is definitely worried about Wyoming’s defense. They (Wyoming) is a very tough defense. With a new quarterback (for New Mexico State) Coach Martin knows there could be some struggles early with the offense. He is really going to be relying on the defensive side of the ball to keep them in the game especially since Wyoming is trying to replace Josh Allen.”
