New Mexico State Football: Can the Aggies contend in C-USA?
By Dante Pryor
New Mexico State football has an identity offensively.
One hallmark of a Jerry Kill-coached team is that they will be good in the trenches. That was the calling card of the Aggies last season. The offensive line was equally adept at run blocking and pass protection. Kill wants to run the football, and the Aggies did. Three of five starters return to anchor what should be another solid line for New Mexico State.
Boise State transfer Jacob Golden should start at right tackle to help pave the way for a running game that returns all four of its leading rushers from last year. Jamoni Jones and Star Thomas are 220-plus pound maulers, and Ahmonte Watkins is the slasher. Quarterback Diego Pavia might be the most dangerous runner in the backfield.
However, Pavia might not be the best quarterback on the team. Texas A&M transfer Eli Stowers was a blue-chip, top-150 prospect with tons of upside. Pavia versus Stowers is something to keep an eye on during the summer.
Four of the Aggies’ five top pass catchers return from last year, including Kordell David, who led New Mexico State in receptions last year. David can stretch the field, and a more productive passing game makes the rushing attack more dangerous.