New Mexico Lobos Football

The New Mexico Lobos football team, representing the University of New Mexico, has a rich history dating back to its inaugural season in 1892. Under the guidance of Athletic Director Eddie Nunez and Head Coach Danny Gonzales, who is in his third season with a record of 7–20 (.259), the Lobos epitomize the spirit of New Mexico's athletic prowess. Their home games unfold at the iconic University Stadium, a venue with a capacity of 39,224, constructed in 1960.

Competing in the Mountain West Conference, the Lobos proudly wear the colors cherry and silver. Over the years, they have clinched four conference titles and produced three Consensus All-Americans, showcasing a tradition of excellence on the football field. The team's historic journey is mirrored in their all-time record of 495–633–31 (.440) and a bowl record of 4–8–1 (.346).

Embracing rivalries with New Mexico State and Arizona, the Lobos infuse each game with a fervent competitive spirit. Their commitment to success and the vibrant cherry and silver hues define the essence of New Mexico Lobos football, leaving an indelible mark on collegiate athletics.

New Mexico Lobos Football History

The New Mexico Lobos football program, tracing its roots back to 1892, has experienced a diverse coaching lineage and a rollercoaster of successes and challenges. Early mentors like Ralph Hutchinson and Roy Johnson laid the foundation, and under Ted Shipkey, the Lobos saw notable records from 1937 to 1941. Willis Barnes led the team through the 1940s, achieving a Sun Bowl victory in 1945. Marv Levy, head coach from 1953 to 1956, embraced a defensive strategy that earned the Lobos recognition.

In the 1960s, Bill Weeks orchestrated unprecedented success with three conference championships. Rudy Feldman and Bill Mondt maintained the program's competitiveness in the following years. Notably, Joe Morrison's tenure in the early '80s showcased a stellar 10–1 season. Rocky Long, from 1998 to 2008, elevated the Lobos with three consecutive bowl appearances, including a historic 2007 New Mexico Bowl victory.

Subsequent coaches like Mike Locksley and Bob Davie faced varying degrees of challenge and success, with Davie leading the Lobos to their first bowl appearance in six years in 2015. The current era, under Danny Gonzales since 2020, holds promise for the Lobos as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of college football.

New Mexico Lobos Football Coach

Danny Gonzales took over as the head coach of the New Mexico Lobos in 2020. As a former Lobo player and Arizona State defensive coordinator, Gonzales brings a combination of local familiarity and coaching experience to the program. With a fresh perspective and a commitment to building a competitive team, Gonzales aims to navigate the challenges of college football and lead the Lobos to a new era of success. The ongoing coaching tenure reflects a strategic approach to the game and a vision for the future of New Mexico football.

New Mexico Lobos Football Stadium: University Stadium

University Stadium, formerly known as Dreamstyle Stadium from 2017 to 2020, stands as the outdoor football haven on the south campus of the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. The home turf for the New Mexico Lobos football team, it has witnessed the team's gridiron endeavors since its opening in September 1960. Boasting a seating capacity of 39,224, the stadium underwent a notable transformation in 2012 when it transitioned from a natural grass surface to FieldTurf, now named "Turner & Margaret Branch Field."

The stadium's inception in 1960 marked a shift from the previous venue, Zimmerman Field, necessitated by the university's post-World War II expansion. Constructed off the main campus, it addressed the need for a more substantial sports facility and allowed space for academic facilities. Over the years, the stadium underwent expansions, including a press box with suites in 1976 and the L.F. "Tow" Diehm Athletic Facility in 1995.

In 2017, naming rights were secured by Turner and Margaret Branch, alumni and benefactors. Subsequently, a $10 million agreement with Dreamstyle Remodeling led to a temporary rebranding, which reverted to University Stadium in 2020. Future plans include further expansions, envisioning a seating capacity surpassing 43,000 spectators and improved player facilities.

New Mexico Lobos Football Rivals

New Mexico's gridiron rivalries are steeped in history and fierce competition. Chief among them is the Rio Grande Rivalry against in-state adversary New Mexico State Aggies, dating back to January 1, 1894, predating New Mexico's statehood. Initially competitive, the series tilted in favor of the Lobos, holding a commanding 72–33–5 advantage. The annual clash, known for the Maloof Trophy until 2000, witnessed memorable encounters, including the Lobos' 55–52 triumph on September 21, 2019.

Another significant rivalry unfolds in the Arizona–New Mexico football showdown, an annual spectacle from 1938 to 1990. The stakes were high as the victor claimed possession of the Kit Carson Rifle, a Springfield Model 1866 rumored to be linked to frontier scout Kit Carson. Scores etched on the rifle's stock documented the rivalry's intensity. However, concerns about its historical implications led to its retirement before the 1997. While the teams shifted to intermittent matchups post-1990, the legacy of these rivalries endures, reflecting the passion and competition ingrained in New Mexico football.

New Mexico Lobos Football Record and Stats

Championship Conferences

The New Mexico Lobos football program boasts a storied history marked by triumphs in three distinct conferences. In 1938, under Coach Ted Shipkey, the Lobos clinched the Border Conference championship with an impressive 8–3 overall record. The Western Athletic Conference witnessed the Lobos' dominance in the early '60s, with Coach Bill Weeks securing titles in 1962 (7–2–1) and co-championing in 1964 (9–2). The program continued its success in the Mountain West Conference, contributing to a legacy of four conference championships.

Division Championships

The Lobos' prowess extends to divisional conquests, claiming the WAC - Mountain Division in 1997 under Coach Dennis Franchione, despite a challenging matchup against Colorado State. In 2016, the Mountain West - Mountain Division title eluded them, narrowly losing the tiebreaker to Wyoming.

Conference Championship Game Appearances

While the Lobos have clinched conference championships, their journey to conference championship game appearances is marked by competitive seasons. These achievements, coupled with their rich history, showcase the New Mexico Lobos' resilience and prowess on the college football stage.

New Mexico Lobos Football Roaster

New Mexico Lobos Football Schedule