New Mexico State could manage only 135 yards - 93 of which came during a final touchdown drive in garbage time - and seven points in losing 29-7 at home to Wyoming this past Saturday. Now the Aggies go on the road to face Minnesota, a Big Ten team that ranked 36th in scoring defense last year giving up 22.8 points per game.

I don't see the Aggies having nearly enough time to straighten out their offensive line woes especially while going against a better defense.

Minnesota, though, doesn't figure to put up many points either. The Gophers are going with a true freshman at quarterback, Zack Annexstad. So don't expect the Gophers to come out throwing. They have a solid running back in senior Rodney Smith. He should get lots of carries, which will eat clock.

New Mexico State's defense was much improved last season under second-year defensive coordinator Frank Spaziani. The Aggies should be able to hold their own against Minnesota's bland offense.

Weather could play a factor, too. The forecast is for wind in the 10 mph range with a chance of thunderstorms.