LAS CRUCES — New Mexico State University will host Conference USA leader Jacksonville State at Aggie Memorial Stadium Wednesday at 6 p.m. Mountain time. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN2, giving local fans a chance to see the Aggies’ resurgence on a big stage.
Offensive firepower centered on James Jones
Running back James Jones has become the engine of the Aggies’ offense. He leads the conference with 777 rushing yards through seven games and ranks 10th nationally, averaging 111 yards per contest. Jones recorded a career‑high 178 yards against Sam Houston, and his 6.5 yards per carry rank second among CUSA rushers.
The Aggies now average 151.4 rushing yards per game, the second‑highest total in the league, a dramatic jump from last season when they finished last nationally in rushing offense. Quarterback Adam Damante also contributed, throwing two touchdown passes to wide receiver AJ Williams III in the recent win over Sam Houston.
Defense excels against the run
New Mexico State’s defense has been a cornerstone of its recent success. The Aggies allow just 51.3 rushing yards per game in conference play, the lowest average among FBS teams facing league opponents. Overall, they give up only 109.1 rushing yards per game, ranking 30th nationally.
Defensive end Gabe Peterson leads Conference USA with 5.5 sacks, and the unit has recorded multiple sacks in four straight games. Jacksonville State, however, averages only one sack per game, setting up a compelling battle at the line of scrimmage.
Turnover advantage and scoring efficiency
The Aggies have forced a turnover in 22 of their past 23 games, including interceptions and forced fumbles that have directly led to scoring drives. Safety Josiah Charles intercepted a pass against Sam Houston and set up a Jones touchdown, while a fumble recovery by Kaian Roberts‑Day resulted in another short‑field score.
New Mexico State’s offense has demonstrated the ability to score quickly; three of its five‑point drives against Sam Houston lasted no more than two plays and 45 seconds. The team also ranks among the nation’s leaders in defensive touchdowns.
Implications for the conference race
Coming into the matchup, the Aggies sit at 3‑4 overall and 2‑1 in CUSA, while Jacksonville State is unbeaten in league play at 5‑2 overall and 3‑0 in conference. A victory would tighten the Aggies’ hold on the second spot in the standings and keep the team on pace for a strong finish to the season.
After Wednesday’s game, New Mexico State will have a week off before returning to face Liberty on Nov. 7.
Game day details
Fans can listen locally on 99.5 FM KXPZ with play‑by‑play by MJ Newsom and analysis by Cory Lucas. Spanish‑language coverage will be available on 96.7 FM La Equis. After the final whistle, a fleet of illuminated drones will perform a post‑game sky show featuring the Aggies’ logos and messages.
Original reporting: Organ Mountain News (Las Cruces / Doña Ana County) — read the source article.
