As college football kicks off Week 0, fans are treated to a unique matchup featuring the FCS preseason No. 4 ranked Montana State Bobcats taking on the New Mexico Lobos, one of the FBS teams expected to struggle this season. The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 24th, with a 4:00 PM Eastern Time kickoff on FS1. This intriguing clash offers an opportunity to see whether an elite FCS program can dominate an FBS team that is undergoing a major rebuild under new head coach Bronco Mendenhall.

Where to Watch and Game Time

• Date: Saturday, August 24th
• Time: 4:00 PM Eastern Time
• Location: University Stadium, Albuquerque, New Mexico
• TV Channel: FS1

Betting Odds and Analysis

The Line
Montana State is currently favored by 11 points, which is remarkable considering they are an FCS team playing on the road against an FBS opponent. A betting spread like this indicates that sportsbooks believe Montana State is significantly better, despite the typical disparity between FCS and FBS teams. For bettors, this means that Montana State would need to win by more than 11 points to cover the spread.

The Total
The total for this game is set at 54 points, which represents the combined expected points scored by both teams. Bettors can wager on whether the actual total will be over or under this number. With Montana State’s high-powered offense and New Mexico’s defensive challenges, the over might be worth considering.

The Moneyline
The moneyline for this game has Montana State as the favorite with a payout of -455, meaning you would need to bet $455 to win $100. On the other hand, a bet on New Mexico would yield a much higher return, as they are the underdogs. This reflects the confidence that sportsbooks have in Montana State’s ability to win outright.

In-Depth Game Analysis

Team Overview

Montana State Bobcats

• Coach: Brent Vigen
• Conference: Big Sky (FCS)
• Overall 247 Talent: 58
• Power Rating: 11
• Adjusted Returning Production (Adj Ret Prod): 72

New Mexico Lobos

• Coach: Bronco Mendenhall
• Conference: Mountain West (FBS)
• Overall 247 Talent: 118
• Power Rating: 144
• Adjusted Returning Production (Adj Ret Prod): 92

Montana State, a perennial powerhouse in the FCS, enters this season with high expectations after an impressive 2023 campaign. Led by head coach Brent Vigen, the Bobcats boast a formidable offense that was among the best in the FCS last season. New Mexico, under new head coach Bronco Mendenhall, is in the midst of a rebuild after several disappointing seasons. The Lobos will look to establish a new identity and start their season on a positive note, but they face a daunting challenge against a well-oiled Montana State machine.

Offensive and Defensive Comparisons

Montana State

• Offensive Coordinator: Taylor Housewright
• Offensive Adjusted Returning Production (Off Adj Ret Prod): 106
• Average Offensive Rank (Avg Off Rank): 20
• Defensive Coordinator: Willie Mack Garza
• Defensive Adjusted Returning Production (Def Adj Ret Prod): 97
• Average Defensive Rank (Avg Def Rank): 24

New Mexico

• Offensive Coordinator: Derek Sage
• Offensive Adjusted Returning Production (Off Adj Ret Prod): 68
• Average Offensive Rank (Avg Off Rank): 106
• Defensive Coordinator: Rocky Long
• Defensive Adjusted Returning Production (Def Adj Ret Prod): 97
• Average Defensive Rank (Avg Def Rank): 42

Montana State’s offense, anchored by quarterback Tommy Mellott, is expected to be explosive and efficient, particularly in the running game. New Mexico, while fielding a defense with potential under Mendenhall’s guidance, will need to overcome significant challenges to contain the Bobcats’ attack. Offensively, the Lobos will rely on inexperienced quarterback Devon Dampier to lead the charge against a seasoned Montana State defense.

Key Points to Watch

Montana State’s Rushing Attack
Montana State was one of the best rushing teams in the FCS last season, and with nearly their entire offensive line returning, they should be able to dominate on the ground against New Mexico. The Bobcats’ ability to control the clock and sustain long drives will be crucial in this matchup.

New Mexico’s Offensive Struggles
New Mexico’s offense has been a weak point for several seasons, and with a new quarterback at the helm, they may struggle to generate consistent scoring opportunities. The Lobos will need to find creative ways to move the ball and avoid becoming one-dimensional against a stout Montana State defense.

Weather Conditions
The weather in Albuquerque is expected to be clear with mild temperatures, which should not affect gameplay. Both teams will be able to execute their game plans without any environmental disruptions.

Betting Picks and Predictions

Given the spread, total, and moneyline, this game presents several interesting betting options:

• Spread: Montana State is the clear favorite, and while the line has moved significantly, they still have the potential to cover the 11-point spread. Bettors might consider backing the Bobcats to cover, especially given New Mexico’s struggles.
• Total: With Montana State’s potent offense and New Mexico’s defensive vulnerabilities, betting the over on 54 points seems like a smart play.
• Moneyline: Montana State is the safer pick for the outright win, but the payout on the moneyline is not particularly attractive for bettors. Those looking for a higher return may want to explore other options.

Conclusion

This Week 0 clash between Montana State and New Mexico offers a fascinating look at the potential disparity between a top-tier FCS program and a struggling FBS team. Montana State enters the game as a heavy favorite, and for good reason. The Bobcats have the talent and experience to dominate this matchup, while New Mexico is still trying to find its footing under new leadership. Whether you’re a fan of FCS powerhouses or just eager to see how New Mexico starts their season, this game is one to watch.

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