Independent Football Teams - 2021 New Mexico State Aggies Preview
Our New Mexico State Aggies preview 2021 observes that in essence this team did not have a season last year. They played two games in the spring, going 1-1, and none in the fall. In 2019, the Aggies were 2-10, losing their first nine games. That season, they averaged 21.7 PPG (108th) and allowed opponents 41.0 PPG (129th). The last time the Aggies went to a bowl game was 2017 when they finished 6-6 as part of the Sun Belt Conference. That year New Mexico State played Utah State in the Arizona Bowl beating them 26-20 in OT. Since going Independent, NMSU has won five games and lost 19.
New Mexico State Offense
With the departure of two-year starting QB Josh Adkins to UTSA via the transfer portal, the Aggies need a new signal caller. That will be junior college transfer Jonah Johnson. He’s a solid passer who can extend plays outside the pocket. The dual threat will have a wealth of receivers to toss to, including Missouri transfer Dominic Gicinto, Robert Downs III, Terrell Warner, and Andre Bodison. All have experience.
Freshman RB Juwaun Price is a thrilling speedster, while O’Maury Samuels is a tough to stop power rusher. They provide New Mexico State with a solid one-two punch. The O-line is perhaps the best unit on this team. Included are three-year starter Sage Doxtater at left tackle and Mississippi transfer Eli Johnson in the center.
New Mexico State Aggies Preview 2021 - Defense
The defense is worrisome. In 2019, they could not stop the run. In the spring, DE Donovan King looked impressive. He could be a force this season. Freshman Lama Lavea starts at NT and sophomore Justin Segura at DT.
The linebacking group is thin. MLB Trevor Brohard is the most experienced player on the linebacking unit. He’s played in 13 games with just one start. Amongst the secondary, there’s not one interception. Daemahni Williams and Xavier Hinkle start at the corners. Look for Devlin Kirkland and Caleb Mills to occupy the safety spots.
Specialists
Our New Mexico State Aggies preview 2021 observes that Ethan Albertson has solid kicking and punting chops. There is a good chance that the sophomore will handle all such chores, Price, who possesses explosive speed, will handle punt and kick returns. He’s capable of breaking one for a TD at any time.
New Mexico State Aggies Preview 2021 - Projection
Our New Mexico State Aggies preview 2021 finds that this team will likely lose many more games than they win. And that’s even though the Aggies have a relatively easy schedule. Still, it’s no cakewalk. NMSU plays Alabama, Kentucky, San Jose State, and Nevada. Considering the quality and depth of this team, we expect one or two wins for the Aggies in 2021.
Independent Football Teams - New Mexico State Aggies 2021 - Predictions:
Record: 1-11
No Bowl Berth