New Mexico Lobos, Minnesota Golden Gophers Set for Desert Showdown PHOENIX (Interstat) — Two teams riding late-season momentum will clash in a non-conference postseason matchup when the New Mexico Lobos face the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Chase Field on Friday, Dec. 26, 2025. The Lobos (9-3) enter as slight favorites, installed at -1.5, despite the National Statistical game simulator projecting a 35-25 victory for Minnesota. The over/under is set at 42.5 points. New Mexico, the visiting team, has won four straight games, most recently a 23-17 home victory over San Diego State on Nov. 28. Their offense employs a potent two-quarterback system. Against the Aztecs, Jack Layne threw for 127 yards and a touchdown while James Laubstein added 70 rushing yards and a score. Running back Damon Bankston also contributed 56 yards on the ground. The Lobos’ defense has been formidable during the win streak, allowing an average of just 14.3 points per game. The Golden Gophers (7-5) capped their regular season with a 17-7 win over rival Wisconsin on Nov. 29. Their strength lies in a balanced offensive attack and a defense that held the Badgers to a single score. Quarterback Drake Lindsey was efficient, completing 18 of 24 passes for 90 yards and a touchdown against Wisconsin. The backfield duo of Darius Taylor, who rushed for 100 yards and a touchdown, and Fame Ijeboi provides a consistent ground threat. Minnesota’s season has been marked by volatility, with a 38-35 loss to Northwestern preceding the Wisconsin win and a 41-3 defeat at Iowa in late October. Their defense will face a unique challenge in containing New Mexico’s multifaceted quarterback run game. The neutral-site game in Phoenix presents an atypical setting for both programs. For New Mexico, a victory would secure the program’s first 10-win season since 2007. Minnesota seeks an eighth win to build positive momentum heading into the offseason. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. MST Friday. The game will be televised on ESPN.