Five Keys to Beating New Mexico State – From the Bird’s Nest

Two streaks will be on the line Saturday night when New Mexico State plays host to the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns at Aggie Memorial Stadium in Las Cruces. Game time is set for 7pm (CST.)  Local pregame begins at 5pm.  The network joins us at 6.

The Aggies have lost seven straight.  The Cajuns have won four in a row.  If those streaks are going to continue, here are some things that would surely help the situation.

TACKLE IN SPACE--New Mexico State wants to get the ball to the outside and put the defense in a situation where they have to make one-on-one tackles in space.  Sure tackling by the DB's and linebackers when in coverage is crucial to the Cajuns' success this week.

DON'T GO TO SLEEP ON THE DEEP---New Mexico State will throw it, throw it, throw it and throw it again...short stuff.  Then they'll go up top and I'm sure will attack the Cajuns' freshmen safeties.  The kids can't get caught up in tendencies on Saturday.

TURN EM OVER---Can you imagine what kind of numbers the Aggies would be putting up if they weren't the worst in the country in turnovers?  They've given it up 26 times this year.  Cajuns DB's have had chances for three pick-sixes this season.  If you get a jump on it, don't drop the potato.  Finish the play.  That means complete the catch.

DON'T FORGET THE LONG BALL---Yes, New Mexico State is last in the nation in run defense.  The Cajuns will get plays there. But NMSU starts four freshmen in the secondary.  Pick the spots, but keep em honest by going deep.  Butler, Scott et al should be able to get some separation.

WIN THE KICKING GAME DECISIVELY---Because the Cajuns have a big advantage in that department.  Cadona should be able to flip field position.  The punter for NMSU has been very inconsistent.  The Cajuns need to take advantage of field position.  And, this might be the game where Elijah McGuire finally breaks one as a return man.  There's been nothing special about NMSU's special teams.  Make the Aggies pay.

If the Cajuns can do things it will be a happy flight home.  And Coach Mark Hudspeth can concentrate on welcoming that new baby that Tyla is expected to deliver on Monday.