New Mexico State football: Insights on Aggies Massive Search for QB, Look to Rally For Bowl Eligibility

It’s a new week for New Mexico State, but they’re still grappling with the same quarterback dilemma.

The Aggies (2-6, 1-4 in Conference USA) are still searching for a starting quarterback as they prepare for their ninth game against Western Kentucky (6-2, 4-0 CUSA) at 4 p.m. Saturday at home. This season, NM State has utilized four quarterbacks, starting three of them, with senior Brandon Nunez as the most recent starter in a 34-13 defeat against Florida International on Oct. 29.

Once again, Aggies coach Tony Sanchez must make a decision on who will take the first snap. Both Nunez and junior Santino Marucci have received first-team practice reps since playing FIU, and Sanchez indicates that either could start.

“It’s currently an ‘or’ on the depth chart,” Sanchez stated. “Both players are getting reps with the starters. Don’t be surprised if you see both of them in the game.”

Sanchez emphasizes the need for a balanced offense to overcome the Hilltoppers, a key element that was lacking against the Panthers, where NM State recorded just 30 passing yards compared to 218 rushing yards and saw Nunez post only 12 passing yards—the lowest for an NM State starter since 2009.

Despite last week’s challenges, Sanchez remains optimistic about Nunez. He acknowledged that Nunez made some strides while also noting his difficulties in the passing game.

“He did a good job at certain moments, but he struggled to complete passes last game,” Sanchez remarked. “Overall, his performance might be viewed through a critical lens, especially since we relied heavily on the run. He did manage to gain some key yards on the ground. His presence does alter how opponents defend us, but we missed some passing opportunities.”

Whoever Sanchez selects as the starter, he hopes to see marked improvement in the passing game.

“We need to be more intentional than we were last time,” Sanchez said. “It won’t be enough to just try to run the ball against them. Their defense is solid, so we’ll need to be able to pass effectively to secure a victory.”

Aggies Looking to Rally
One of NM State’s initial goals this season was to qualify for a bowl game, and they have no margin for error to achieve that aim.

To reach bowl eligibility, the Aggies must win their final four games, starting with their homecoming contest against WKU. They will also face Middle Tennessee and UTEP, both of which have struggled this season, but they must contend with tough matchups against CUSA co-leader Western Kentucky and No. 11 Texas A&M, who ranks No. 10 in the Associated Press poll.

Though NM State is expected to be the underdog in most of these matchups, junior running back Mike Washington remains determined.

“It’s about having the right mindset every day, regardless of our record,” Washington said. “Not everyone remembers September, but October and November stand out. November is our month to finish strong.”

The Hilltoppers are currently listed as 20-point favorites over the Aggies, according to ESPN Bet.

Fahina Finding His Place with the Aggies
One of NM State’s standout defensive players has been Naki Fahina.

The senior defensive tackle, a transfer from UNLV, holds the highest grade among Aggies defenders on Pro Football Focus with a score of 73.0, along with five pressures from the interior position this season. Fahina’s commitment to the Aggies was influenced by his previous relationship with Sanchez, who was his coach at UNLV during the latter’s final season in 2019.

Fahina admitted to feeling “nervous” during his time in the transfer portal but is pleased with his decision to join the team in Las Cruces.

“I was uncertain about my next steps until Coach Sanchez reached out, and it just clicked,” Fahina shared. “It feels like everything has come full circle. He’s the same passionate coach I met before, and his love for football was a major factor in my decision to play here.

“I’ve connected with teammates across all positions, from receivers to running backs, which has helped me feel at home in Las Cruces—a truly beautiful place to be.”