Photo Courtesy of EA Sports
How to watch New Mexico Lobos at UCLA Bruins
New Mexico vs UCLA: Friday Night Showdown
- Game: New Mexico Lobos vs UCLA Bruins
- Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
- Location: Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA
- TV: ESPN/ESPN+
- Odds/Point Spread: Bruins (-16.5)
- Total/Over-Under: 54
- The Rose Bowl will host the game where the UCLA Bruins (0-2) try to beat the New Mexico Lobos (1-1) on Friday, September 12, 2025. New Mexico starts as a 16.5-point underdog according to oddsmakers. The betting total is set at 54.
Stats to Know
- UCLA is averaging only 16.5 points per game, which is 11.5 points below what New Mexico’s defense has been allowing (28.0).
- The Lobos’ defense has allowed 419.0 yards per game, nearly 100 yards more than the 324.0 yards per game UCLA’s offense has produced so far.
- New Mexico averages 24.5 points per game, about 12 less than the 36.5 points the Bruins have been allowing.
- The Lobos are averaging 102.5 rushing yards per game, challenging a UCLA defense that has struggled to get off the field.
Lobos Travel to Pasadena
The New Mexico Lobos (1–1) will face the UCLA Bruins (0–2) at the Rose Bowl on Friday Night Football, September 12, 2025.
Kickoff is at 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET) as Jason Eck’s Lobos look to keep their momentum, while first-year head coach DeShaun Foster and the Bruins try to avoid a tough 0–3 start.
Odds makers have listed the Bruins as 15.5-point favorites
and set the over/under at 53.5, clearly seeing this as a chance for UCLA to bounce back, while New Mexico’s first two games show they won’t be intimidated by Power Five teams, as they took a strong Michigan team down to the wire in the season opener, followed by a home win over Idaho State last week.
UCLA faces a tough season, while the Lobos improve each week—this promises to be an exciting college football game.
A Tale of Two Beginnings
New Mexico began the season at Michigan, and despite losing 34–17, both fans and pundits expected it to be even worse result.
In fact, New Mexico was a 34.5-point underdog before kickoff, making it a very challenging place to play, and they fought hard in the Big House.
A week later, UNM showed resilience late in the game to beat Idaho State 32–22 in Eck’s first home game at University Stadium.
After one month into the season, progress is clear: improved quarterback play, better execution, and players starting to embrace the new team identity.
UCLA, meanwhile, has had a difficult start. After losing to Utah (43-10) and Fresno State (30-23), with mistakes that caused turnovers, unnecessary penalties, and a defense that allows too many third-down conversions, UCLA is working to improve its ball movement.
The Bruins are averaging 3 turnovers per game and roughly 79.5 penalty yards, leading to some of the worst stats in the country.
The UCLA Bruins are ranked 117th nationally in scoring, averaging 16.5 points per game. They’re improving on offense and gaining 324.0 yards per game, which places them 103rd in Division I.
They are averaging 195.5 passing yards per game (92nd) and 128.5 rushing yards per game. The Bruins have committed 17 penalties for 159 yards (21st most), thrown 2 interceptions, fumbled once, and accumulated 41 first downs.
On the defensive side of the ball, they’ve given up 434 rushing yards (217.0 rushing yards per game) and 5 rushing TDs, along with 204.5 passing yards and 5 passing TDs allowed (ranked 76th in the country).
They have yet to force a turnover in 133 plays against them (ranked 86th). The Bruins are giving up 36.5 points per game, which is 123rd in the nation.
For UCLA and first-year head coach DeShaun Foster, this game feels more like a must-win than a practice run.
UCLA entered the 2025 season with a lot of optimism, especially after adding transfer quarterback Nico Iamaleava, a move that drew attention nationwide in college football. UCLA entered the 2025 season with a lot of optimism, especially after adding Transfer quarterback Nico Iamaleava, a move that drew attention nationwide. College football.
Photo Courtesy Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Second-year head coach DeShaun Foster seemed to be guiding the Bruins upward after several key wins in his debut season, and expectations in Westwood grew accordingly.
But two straight losses to start the year — including a surprising home defeat to UNLV — have changed the situation. Instead of aiming for the top of the Big Ten, UCLA now struggles to stay above water, eager to avoid an 0–3 start.
For the Bruins, Friday’s game against New Mexico is no longer just a warm-up; it’s a must-win. For the Lobos, it’s an opportunity — a moment under the Rose Bowl lights that could trigger an upset and put Jason Eck’s team on the national radar.
According to CBS Sports, Foster’s job security is definitely under review after the 0–2 start, with analysts suggesting that a coaching change is now very likely.
Meanwhile, The Los Angeles Times’ sharp critique highlights the increasing pressure.
One reader directly criticized Foster, suggesting that his tenure is hanging by a thread—“a placeholder,” they wrote, in a rare overt jab at a beloved alum.
It’s more than just a difficult couple of weeks. A loss to New Mexico wouldn’t be simply another defeat—it could end Foster’s time in Westwood before it even gets started develop.
This sets up an intriguing college football game between a coach under pressure and another with a history of unexpectedly successful teams.
Last year, Idaho nearly defeated #3-ranked Oregon at home before losing; the same coach and quarterback are now with the Lobos.
The Lobos have accumulated 638 yards this season with 2 passing and 4 rushing touchdowns, but also 4 turnovers. They’ve earned 41 first downs while averaging 133.0 rushing yards per game, ranking 94th nationwide, and scoring 24.5 points per game.
Defensively, New Mexico has surrendered 419.0 yards per game (109th in FBS), including 258.0 passing yards at a 70% completion rate.
They’ve allowed 2 passing and 4 rushing scores, giving up 161.0 rushing yards per game at 5.1 yards per carry. Opponents are scoring an average of 28.0 points per game against them, ranking the Lobos 105th..
Photo Courtesy of msn.com
Player Spotlights
New Mexico Lobos (2025-26)
Jack Layne, QB – transferred from Idaho and a key part of Eck’s offense. How well he manages pressure will determine the speed of UNM’s offense.
Scottre humphrey, RB – A tough, physical running back who sets the tone for the ground game and will be vital in keeping the Lobo offense balanced.
Dorian Thomas, TE – A dependable target and blocker, providing Layne with a consistent option in the middle of the field.
Keyshawn James-Newby, DE – a pass rusher who had ten sacks just a few months ago, was part of the game plan against UCLA’s front. PFF has him graded 84.4—Keyshawn James–Newby, New Mexico
Jaxton Eck, LB – the coach’s son, is the core of the defense, leading with his tackling and leadership.
Tavian Combs, another leader at the safety spot for the Lobos, with 11 total tackles and 7 solo.
David Murphy: 3 Tackles for Loss / 1 interception / 1 PD
Brett Karhu: 3 Tackles for Loss / 1 TFL / 1 SACK
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
UCLA Bruin (2025)
Nico Iamaleava, QB – Tennessee transfer with great potential, is still working to find his rhythm within this system.
Anthony Woods, RB – Fast running back capable of changing the game with a single move.
Rico Flores Jr., WR – Former Notre Dame wide receiver who offers a bigger target and playmaking ability to UCLA’s passing game.
Madden Iamaleava, QB—Nico’s younger brother, provides depth and reassurance to the quarterback room.
Jaivian Thomas: 12 CAR / 60 YDS / 30 YPG / 0 TD / 2 REC / 19 YDS / 19 YPG / 0 TD
Photo Courtesy Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Matchups to watch
UNM Offensive Line vs UCLA Pass Rush
Layne has faced pressure in both games this season. If the Lobos’ starting five can handle that pressure, there could be opportunities against UCLA’s secondary. Red Zone Execution.
The Bruins have been perfect in the red zone so far, while New Mexico is improving. The team that finishes drives first will hold the momentum advantage.
Discipline versus Mistakes
UNM is ranked among the best in the nation for reducing penalties, while UCLA is ranked among the worst. That extra discipline on straight-line plays could create a chance to shift the field position, similar to how momentum works.
Turnover Battle
The Bruins’ ball security has been inconsistent, while UNM has gained some key takeaways. Just one or two turnovers can swing the momentum of the game.
By the Numbers
Yards per Game (Penalties): UNM – 9.0 | UCLA – 79.5
Red Zone Defense: UNM scores on 87.5% of trips | UCLA offense is 100% in the red zone.
Time of Possession: UNM – 31:16 | UCLA – 26:59
Conference Standings: UNM leads the Mountain West with a 1-1 record, while UCLA is looking for its first Big Ten win (0-2).
UCLA leads the all-time series and defeated the Lobos 27-13 in their last encounter (2002). They won’t be relying on that come Friday night.
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
Final Take
On paper, UCLA has more raw talent on the roster. But, after two weeks of statistics and discipline, they look like two completely different teams. UCLA tends to beat itself with mistakes and penalties, while UNM has quietly grown and earned its grit this season under Jason Eck.
Suppose the Lobos can protect Jack Layne, find a way to get Scottre Humphrey touches, and stay clean in the turnover department.
In that case, they become vulnerable to an upset. UCLA has more depth and stars, but the longer New Mexico can keep it close, the more pressure it puts on the home team.
The stage is set—a desperate Power Five team facing a rising Mountain West squad trying to prove itself.
I wouldn’t be surprised if the Lobos are within striking distance in the fourth quarter, with a little Rose Bowl shock before the night is over.
Keys to Victory
New Mexico Lobos
Keep Jack Layne upright – clean pockets help him throw the ball down the field.
Set the tempo and monitor the clock with Scottre Humphrey.
Generate turnovers, and the UCLA offense will produce enough points.
No mistakes, such as punctuality problems or penalties, that could harm your motivation or disrupt the flow.
UCLA Bruins
Involve Anthony Wood early to avoid pressuring Nico Iamaleava too soon.
Use a more cautious defense on third down to force a turnover.
Play smart; expect many penalties and turnovers, so be careful not to give away yours.
Wear the Lobos down in the final stages with impressive athleticism and depth.
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
Prediction:
I truly believe that this matchup is much tighter than the 14-point spread would suggest. UCLA has been the main reason for self-sabotage over the past two games, and their turnovers have largely defined these games.
The Bruins are tied for No. 115 in scoring offense as they score just 16.5 points per game. They also rank 120th in scoring defense giving up 36.5 points per game.
New Mexico is a well-coached team that is the least-penalized team in the FBS and that is a tremendous credit to their discipline and preparation in terms of baseball practice and we have seen really positive flashes and potential over the course of the season.
They have a very smart, instinctive quarterback who protects the football and is good at managing the game. Their notched running backs can explode a play when they reach the second level.
Overall, this game is much more competitive than the 14 points would suggest. UCLA’s ineptitude to play the game correctly and New Mexico’s discipline/ opportunistic style of play has an opportunity to catch a few people by surprise in this matchup.
UNM Lobos 25
UCLA 20
