New Mexico
This New Mexico program has generally not been in great shape over the last decade, with their most recent trip to the Big Dance coming way back in 2014. Two head coaches later, the Lobos are finally looking like a contender again under Richard Pitino, who led this team to 22 wins last season. New Mexico looks significantly better this season, already owning 19 wins and a NET of 22.
They didn’t let an early loss to Saint Mary’s dissuade them, as the Lobos got off to a 12-1 start to the season before MWC play began. The Lobos are 2-2 against both Quad 1 and 2 opponents, getting those top wins at home over San Diego State and Utah State in the middle of January. They used a nice winning streak, including a blowout against Nevada, to put themselves in great shape in the conference, but the last few weeks haven’t been ideal.
After looking unbeatable at home, the Lobos have lost their last two home games, a tough performance against Boise State and a Quad 3 loss to UNLV last weekend. That performance certainly put a dent in their resume, but the Lobos still look like a Tournament team. They simply can’t afford to let this recent skid continue, though that won’t be easy. They’ll play at Nevada and San Diego State this week, facing two teams looking for revenge and to improve their own resumes.