New Mexico is a running team with an improved defense. UTEP also looks to be better in Sean Kugler's second season. Their entire coaching staff returned entact.


The Lobos no longer have workhorse running back Kasey Carrier, who rushed for 291 yards and four touchdowns when New Mexico beat UTEP, 42-35, in overtime last season.


I don't expect that many points to be scored in this year's heated rivalry. I'm not a fan of Miners' quarterback Jameill Showers. I'm also not high on the passing skills of Lobos' signal-caller Cole Gautsche, who completed less than 45 percent of his throws last season.


The perception is these two defenses are terrible. They were last year. But I see some improvement, coupled with inefficient passing quarterbacks and a high total. That's an under formula.