Montana State Bobcats vs. New Mexico Lobos 8/24/24 – The new college football season begins with a bang as the Bobcats from Montana State and Lobos from New Mexico gear up to face each other in a game that will hold the attention of both fans and bettors. The team won eight games last season and lost four other matches. The opponents are scheduled to meet on August 24, 2024, at University Stadium for the kick-off event; hence, avid followers have picked out their picks on best online betting sites.
Montana State Bobcats vs. New Mexico Lobos 8/24/24
| When: | Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 4:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | University Stadium |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bobcats | -8.5 (-122) | 53.5 over (-111) | -340 |  |
| Lobos | +8.5 (-110) | 53.5 under (-111) | +270 | |
| ||||
Last Saturday until Caturday😼#BobcatBuilt | #GoCatsGo pic.twitter.com/AxWCojxaWn
— Montana State Football (@MSUBobcats_FB) August 17, 2024
The current odds favor the Montana State Bobcats significantly, reflecting their stronger last season performance and better overall team statistics. The spread at -8.5 suggests oddsmakers anticipate Montana State to win by more than a touchdown, a stance supported by their defensive strengths, which could limit the Lobos’ scoring opportunities.
Tommy Mellott QB vs. Dylan Hopkins QB
Tommy Mellott had a good season last year, completing 75 of his 119 passes for 1,068 yards with a completion percentage of 63% and an impressive passer rating of 162.8. Mellott’s ability to connect on long balls and withstand pressure, evident in just 2 sacks against him, demonstrates that he is a true leader on the field.
Contrarily, Dylan Hopkins from New Mexico Lobos went 157-of-282 for 2,074 YDS with a lesser percentage of completions at 55.7% and a passer rating of just over one twenty-three point nine. However, Hopkins’ experience cannot be overlooked, even though he was sacked fifteen times under pressure and threw nine interceptions that were picked off.
In their meeting, when compared to Hopkins, who has more experience but fewer yards than Tom Mellott, who has a lower interception rate, shows the difference in performance, which means Mellott can handle pressure much better than Hopkins can. Nonetheless, Hopkins’ yardage total dwarfs New Mexico’s best running back, suggesting he could be a game-breaker for the Lobos, who can exploit Texas State’s occasional defensive lapses.
Ground and Air Assault: Bobcats’ Dynamic Offense
The Bobcats boast a robust rushing attack led by Julius Davis, who racked up 722 yards on 104 carries last season. His impressive average of 6.9 yards per carry, combined with Ty McCullouch’s receiving prowess (473 yards, 5 TDs), forms a dual threat that can dominate both the ground and air. This combination promises to challenge the Lobos’ defense, which has been vulnerable, particularly in home games.
Lobos’ Response: A Test of Resilience
New Mexico’s offensive strategy leans heavily on Dylan Hopkins’ arm but also features Andrew Henry, who gained 350 rushing yards last season. Caleb Medford, with 551 receiving yards, is another key player who will need to make significant contributions for the Lobos to keep pace. This duo’s performance is crucial, especially against a Bobcats defense that tends to tighten up in road games.
Trends
Montana State Bobcats Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Montana State’s last 6 games.
Montana State is 1-13 SU in their last 14 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Montana State’s last 5 games on the road.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Montana State’s last 6 games played in week 1.
Montana State is 1-11 SU in their last 12 games played.
New Mexico Lobos Betting Trends
New Mexico is 6-13 ATS in their last 19 games.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of New Mexico’s last 9 games.
New Mexico is 4-16 SU in their last 20 games.
The total has gone OVER in 8 of New Mexico’s last 9 games at home.
New Mexico is 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games played.
Montana State Bobcats vs. New Mexico Lobos Betting Prediction
Montana State appears to be the safer bet, primarily due to New Mexico’s defensive troubles and Montana State’s defense. This is because they are reliable defensively as opposed to the contrasting styles and strengths of each team. But there may be more scoring in this game, given the Lobos’ trend toward home game OVERs.
Those looking at NCAAF free prediction today and prop bets might want to consider Mellott for an over in passing yards or Davis for a touchdown anytime. In terms of the game total, even though Montana State has been trending UNDER, leaning towards OVER 53.5 might be worthwhile because of New Mexico’s poor defense.
Score Prediction: Montana State 31, New Mexico 24.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: August 18, 2024
Last updated: March 28, 2025