25 Facts About The New Mexico Bowl

The New Mexico Bowl: A Brief Overview

The New Mexico Bowl is an annual college football bowl game held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It has become a staple in the college football postseason, drawing fans from across the country. Here are some fascinating facts about this exciting event.

1. The New Mexico Bowl was first played in 2006, making it one of the newer bowl games in college football.

2. The game is held at University Stadium, which is located on the University of New Mexico campus.

3. The New Mexico Bowl is typically played in December, usually a week or two before Christmas.

4. The bowl game is part of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

Teams and Matchups

The New Mexico Bowl has featured a variety of teams over the years, often creating exciting and unpredictable matchups.

5. Teams from the Mountain West Conference and Conference USA are the primary participants in the New Mexico Bowl.

6. The first New Mexico Bowl in 2006 featured San Jose State and New Mexico, with San Jose State winning 20-12.

7. In 2011, Temple played in the New Mexico Bowl, marking their first bowl appearance since 1979.

8. The 2015 New Mexico Bowl saw a thrilling game where Arizona defeated New Mexico 45-37.

Memorable Moments

The New Mexico Bowl has had its share of unforgettable moments that have left fans talking for years.

9. In 2012, Arizona scored two touchdowns in the final 42 seconds to defeat Nevada 49-48, one of the most dramatic comebacks in bowl history.

10. The 2018 game featured a record-setting performance by Utah State, who scored 52 points against North Texas.

11. In 2019, San Diego State's defense dominated Central Michigan, holding them to just 3 points in a 48-11 victory.

Community and Economic Impact

The New Mexico Bowl is more than just a football game; it has a significant impact on the local community and economy.

12. The bowl game generates millions of dollars in economic activity for Albuquerque each year.

13. Local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, see a substantial increase in revenue during the bowl week.

14. The New Mexico Bowl partners with local charities, providing support and raising awareness for various causes.

15. The game also brings national attention to Albuquerque, showcasing the city's culture and attractions.

Broadcast and Media

The New Mexico Bowl reaches a wide audience through its television and media coverage.

16. ESPN has broadcast the New Mexico Bowl since its inception in 2006.

17. The game is available to millions of viewers across the United States and internationally.

18. Social media platforms provide real-time updates and highlights, engaging fans who can't attend in person.

Awards and Honors

Players and coaches who participate in the New Mexico Bowl have the opportunity to earn various awards and honors.

19. The New Mexico Bowl MVP award is given to the most outstanding player of the game.

20. In 2017, Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen was named MVP after leading his team to a 37-14 victory over Central Michigan.

21. The bowl also recognizes academic achievements, awarding scholarships to student-athletes who excel in the classroom.

Fun Facts

Here are some additional fun and lesser-known facts about the New Mexico Bowl.

22. The official trophy of the New Mexico Bowl features a Zia sun symbol, a nod to New Mexico's state flag.

23. The bowl game often includes a halftime show featuring local musicians and performers.

24. The New Mexico Bowl has a tradition of hosting a "Fan Fest" event, where fans can enjoy food, games, and live entertainment before the game.

25. The game has seen a variety of weather conditions, from sunny skies to snow, adding an element of unpredictability to the event.

The Final Whistle

The New Mexico Bowl offers more than just a football game. It's a celebration of college sports, community spirit, and New Mexico's rich culture. From its inception in 2006, the bowl has grown in popularity, drawing fans from across the country. The matchups often feature thrilling plays and unforgettable moments, making it a must-watch event each December. Plus, the local economy benefits from the influx of visitors, boosting businesses and creating a festive atmosphere. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just love a good community event, the New Mexico Bowl has something for everyone. So, next time December rolls around, consider tuning in or even attending in person. You won't be disappointed. The New Mexico Bowl is more than a game; it's an experience that brings people together and showcases the best of college football and New Mexican hospitality.