New Mexico State vs Sam Houston Picks and Prediction – 9/21/2024

The New Mexico State Aggies (1-2) take on the Sam Houston Bearkats (2-1) in a C-USA matchup. The Aggies are coming off a tough 48-0 loss to Fresno State, while Sam Houston won 31-13 against Hawaii in its most recent game. Both teams look to improve on early-season performances. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

New Mexico State’s offense has struggled to find consistency, averaging just 21 points per game. Quarterback Parker Awad has thrown for 243 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Running back Seth McGowan has 210 rushing yards and two touchdowns, but the Aggies' offensive output hasn’t been enough to carry them through tough matchups. The receiving corps has been quiet, with Monte Watkins leading the team with just two receptions for 69 yards. 

On the defensive side, the Aggies have allowed 31 points per game, highlighted by an inability to stop Fresno State in the last outing. New Mexico State has struggled to contain both the run and pass, which is concerning heading into a matchup against a more balanced Sam Houston team. 

Sam Houston’s offense has been led by quarterback Hunter Watson, who has thrown for 476 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. Running back Jay Ducker has been efficient with 171 rushing yards on 7.4 yards per carry, while wide receiver Qua’Vez Humphreys leads the team with 234 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The Bearkats have averaged 35.7 points per game and have proven to be efficient offensively.

Defensively, Sam Houston has been solid, allowing only 24 points per game. They stifled Hawaii in the lastest matchup, and the ability to control both the run and pass will be a key advantage against a struggling New Mexico State team. The Bearkats' defensive unit has been balanced, and with no glaring weaknesses, they’ll likely have the upper hand defensively in this matchup.

The Bearkats have shown more balance and efficiency on both sides of the ball, while New Mexico State has struggled to find consistency. Expect Sam Houston’s offense to exploit the Aggies' defense and pull away with a decisive win. Final Score Prediction: Sam Houston wins and covers 34-14.