Spring Roundup: University Of New Mexico Football

The one main question coming into spring was whether running back Rodney Ferguson, who was unable to play in the bowl game (academically ineligible) would be on the team.  Ferguson is practicing this spring and is on the depth chart, so it looks like he is on his way back to the team for his Senior season.  The Lobos return the core of their offense with six starters, but they lose their entire offensive line and their top two receivers. On defense the Lobos also return six starters. 

2008 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
DATE	OPPONENT
8-30-08	TCU
9-6-08	TEXAS A&M
9-13-08	ARIZONA
9-20-08	at Tulsa
9-27-08	at New Mexico State
10-4-08	WYOMING
10-11-08	at Brigham Young
10-18-08	SAN DIEGO STATE
10-23-08	at Air Force (Thur.)
11-1-08	UTAH
11-8-08	at UNLV
11-15-08	at Colorado State

With skill players like Donovan Porterie, who is emerging as one of the top QB’s in the league, and also running back Rodney Ferguson, the Lobos have a solid offensive core.  The Lobos need to find new go-to WR’s to replace last year's duo.  New Mexico does have six Junior College transfers enrolled and practicing in spring ball. The JC players include:

Ben Contreras* OL 300 Pleasanton, Calif. (City College of San Francisco)

Karlin Givens* OL 295 Ridgeland, Miss. (Holmes CC)

Tray Hardaway LB 215 Olive Branch, Miss. (Copiah-Lincoln CC)

Maurice Mears OL 295 Miami, Fla. (Rock Valley College)

Joshua Taufalele* OL 320 San Jose, Calif. (Foothill College)

Bryant Williams* WR 180 Edina, Minn. (Coffeyville CC)

The transfer class is heavy on offensive lineman because the Lobos returned only one offensive lineman. Having those players in camp early will definitely help New Mexico get their line together. 

The main objectives for the Lobos are solidifying their offensive line, finding some new targets for Porterie, and establishing depth at the defensive side of the ball.

The Cherry-Silver Game will be held at Ivan Head Stadium at Santa Fe (N.M.) High School on Saturday April 26th at 1pm.

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