New Mexico State Football: A History of Gridiron Success

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Football enthusiasts, gather \’round! We embark on a captivating journey through the gridiron annals of New Mexico State University. From the humble beginnings to the present day, we\’ll explore the rich history of the Aggies\’ football program, showcasing its triumphs, challenges, and the indomitable spirit that defines it. Prepare to be immersed in a century\’s worth of pigskin passion as we delve into the legendary players, coaches, and moments that have etched the Aggies\’ name in the annals of college football.

New Mexico State Football: A Resurgence in the Desert

Rebuilding the Program

Hiring Jerry Kill as Head Coach

In December 2020, New Mexico State made a bold move by hiring Jerry Kill as their new head coach. Kill, who had previously coached successful programs at Northern Illinois and Minnesota, brought with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. His arrival signaled a new era for NMSU football, one characterized by discipline, hard work, and a winning mentality.

Kill\’s first task was to reshape the culture of the program. He instituted a rigorous workout regimen, demanding that his players develop a relentless work ethic both on and off the field. He also cracked down on academic performance, ensuring that his players met the highest standards in the classroom. The result was a team that was not only physically fit but also mentally tough and academically focused.

Recruiting Talented Players

Recruiting top talent is crucial for any successful football program, and NMSU was no exception. Kill and his coaching staff scoured the country for talented players who fit their scheme and shared their vision. They identified and recruited players with exceptional athleticism, high character, and a strong desire to win. These recruits formed the foundation of a team that would soon become a force to be reckoned with in the Western Athletic Conference.

Kill\’s recruiting efforts targeted players from all over the United States, with an emphasis on signing local talent from New Mexico and surrounding states. He also sought out players from junior college and transfer programs, looking for athletes with experience and a proven track record of success. The result was a diverse and talented roster that brought together players from different backgrounds and skill sets.

Building a Strong Foundation

With a new head coach and a talented roster in place, NMSU began to build a solid foundation for future success. The team focused on developing a strong offensive line, a physical defense, and a high-powered passing attack. Kill and his staff implemented innovative play-calling and offensive schemes that maximized the strengths of their players. They also emphasized strong fundamentals and disciplined execution.

As the team improved, so too did the atmosphere at Aggie Memorial Stadium. Fans flocked to the games, eager to witness the birth of a winning program. The team\’s success on the field fostered a sense of pride and excitement throughout the university community. NMSU football became a rallying point for students, alumni, and supporters alike.

The Aggies\’ Success Story

2022 Season Highlights

**Historic Bowl Win**

The Aggies\’ historic 2022 season culminated in a thrilling 24-19 victory over Bowling Green in the New Mexico Bowl. This marked the program\’s first bowl win in over a decade and its first victory in a bowl game outside of the state of New Mexico. The victory served as a testament to the team\’s progress under first-year head coach Jerry Kill and energized the Aggie faithful.

**Conference Championship Appearance**

In addition to their bowl victory, the Aggies also made a memorable run in the Mountain West Conference Championship Game. After posting a 7-2 conference record, they earned a berth in the championship game against Boise State. Although they ultimately fell to the Broncos by a score of 32-28, the Aggies\’ appearance in the championship game was a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

**Individual Accolades**

The Aggies\’ success in 2022 was not only a team effort but also showcased the talents of several key players. Quarterback Diego Pavia emerged as one of the most dynamic players in the Mountain West Conference, passing for over 2,900 yards and 24 touchdowns. Running back Josh Tijerina also had a breakout season, rushing for over 1,000 yards and scoring 13 touchdowns. Other standouts included wide receiver Cole Moddrell, who caught 61 passes for 800 yards and eight touchdowns, and safety Bryce Jackson, who led the team in tackles and interceptions.

Key Players and Coaches

Within the heart of the New Mexico State football team lies a constellation of exceptional individuals whose talents and dedication drive the team\’s success. Among them, the spotlight shines brightest on the pivotal positions of quarterback and defensive leader.

Quarterback Diego Pavia

Diego Pavia, the fearless maestro of the offense, orchestrates the team\’s every play with an unparalleled combination of precision and improvisation. His uncanny ability to dissect defenses has led him to shatter numerous school records, including most career passing yards and touchdowns.

Breaking Records

Pavia\’s ascent to the record books has been nothing short of meteoric. During the 2023 season, he surpassed 10,000 career passing yards, a milestone that only a handful of quarterbacks in program history have reached. His record-breaking performance culminated in a historic 500-yard passing game against the Nevada Wolf Pack.

Leading the Offense

As the de facto leader of the offense, Pavia\’s impact extends far beyond his passing statistics. His unwavering composure under pressure and his innate ability to inspire confidence in his teammates have transformed the Aggies into a formidable offensive force. His improvisational skills allow him to extend plays and create scoring opportunities that would otherwise seem impossible.

Award Considerations

Pavia\’s exceptional play has not gone unnoticed. Following the 2023 season, he was recognized as one of the top players in the Independent Football Conference, earning First Team All-Conference honors. His impressive performance has also positioned him as a potential candidate for national awards.

Defensive Leader Chris Ojoh

If Diego Pavia is the pulse of the offense, Chris Ojoh is the unyielding anchor of the defense. A ferocious tackler with an insatiable appetite for opposition ball carriers, Ojoh has emerged as one of the most dominant defensive players in the Independent Football Conference.

Tackling Machine

Ojoh\’s relentless pursuit of the football has made him a tackling machine. During the 2023 season, he led the team in tackles for loss and total tackles, a testament to his exceptional instincts and physical prowess. His ability to consistently disrupt opposing offenses has earned him a reputation as a nightmare for opposing running backs.

Defensive Captain

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Ojoh serves as a vocal leader for the defense. His intense focus and unwavering determination have inspired his teammates to raise their own levels of play. As defensive captain, he sets the tone for the entire unit, instilling a culture of hard work, discipline, and relentless effort.

All-Conference Honors

Ojoh\’s contributions to the New Mexico State defense have been duly recognized by the Independent Football Conference. He has been named to the All-Conference First Team for two consecutive seasons, a reflection of his status as one of the elite defenders in the conference.

Outlook for the Future

The future of New Mexico State football looks bright, with several key factors driving sustained success.

Sustained Success

Recruiting Momentum

The Aggies have made considerable strides in recruiting, bringing in several top-tier prospects under head coach Jerry Kill. These incoming athletes possess both talent and a strong work ethic, bolstering the team\’s depth and overall competitiveness. The program\’s recent success and the positive culture fostered by Coach Kill have made New Mexico State an increasingly attractive destination for recruits.

Improved Play Calling

Offensive coordinator Zach Kittley has implemented an innovative and aggressive play-calling system that has unlocked the team\’s offensive potential. The Aggies have become known for their fearless approach and ability to adapt to various defensive schemes. Quarterback Diego Pavia has thrived under Kittley\’s guidance, showcasing his dynamic playmaking abilities and leading the offense to record-breaking performances.

Building a Dynasty

Coach Kill\’s vision for New Mexico State football extends beyond short-term success. He is committed to creating a dynasty based on a foundation of hard work, discipline, and a winning mindset. The Aggies have established a strong culture within the program, emphasizing accountability and camaraderie. By fostering a positive and competitive environment, Coach Kill aims to build a team that consistently challenges for championships and represents the university with pride.

In addition to these key factors, New Mexico State benefits from a passionate fan base and dedicated support staff. With continued investment in facilities, infrastructure, and resources, the future of Aggie football looks incredibly promising. The program is poised to sustain its success, attract top talent, and establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in the FBS.

Fan Base and Support

Aggie Pride

New Mexico State University has a deeply loyal and passionate fan base that is known for its unwavering support of the Aggies football team. The \”Aggie Pride\” spirit is evident in the team\’s passionate fans, who pack the stadium every home game and travel the country to support the team on the road.

Sellout Crowds

Aggie Memorial Stadium, the home of the New Mexico State Aggies football team, is known for its electric atmosphere. The stadium has a capacity of over 22,500 fans, and it is often sold out for home games. The crowd\’s energy and enthusiasm create an intimidating environment for opposing teams and provide a significant home-field advantage for the Aggies.

Home Field Advantage

Aggie Memorial Stadium has been a fortress for the Aggies in recent years. The Aggies have a strong home record, and they have not lost a home game since 2018. The crowd\’s energy and passion create an intimidating atmosphere for opposing teams, and the Aggies are tough to beat at home.

Community Involvement

The New Mexico State football team is an integral part of the Las Cruces community. The team participates in numerous community outreach programs, including youth football clinics, school visits, and charity events. The Aggies are also active in supporting local businesses and organizations.