New Mexico vs. Minnesota Picks and Prediction for Friday, December 26, 2025

By: Dylan Hellebrand Published 12/22/2025, 10:43 PM ET

On Friday, the New Mexico Lobos (9-3) face off against the Minnesota Gophers (7-5) in the Rate Bowl at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. This game will be aired on ESPN. Keep up to date with all the College Football action, with our College Football predictions.

New Mexico vs. Minnesota Game Information

December 26, 2025
4:30pm EST
Chase Field
ESPN
70° sunny/cloudy at start time

Minnesota Form & Recent Results

Minnesota heads into this game riding the momentum of a recent victory, though they have struggled overall, losing three of their last five matchups. In their most recent 17-7 win over Wisconsin, quarterback Drake Lindsey had an impressive performance, completing 18 of 24 passes and connecting for a touchdown. Over the course of this season, Lindsey has amassed 2,235 passing yards, making him a key player for the Golden Gophers’ offense. Running back Darius Taylor has been dependable, racking up 554 rushing yards so far. In the receiver corps, Le’Meke Brockington leads the way with 484 yards, while Javon Tracy is close behind with 439 yards, giving Lindsey solid options in the passing game. Defensively, the Golden Gophers will need to tighten up, as they've given up an average of nearly 30 points per game over their last five outings. As they prepare to face New Mexico, Minnesota will look to build on their recent win and try to shore up their defense to end their season on a positive note.

New Mexico Form & Recent Results

New Mexico comes into this game riding the momentum of a six-game winning streak. Their most recent win was a thrilling 23-17 double-overtime triumph over San Diego State, where quarterback Jack Layne played a pivotal role by completing 14 of his 25 passes and throwing a touchdown for the Lobos. Layne has been instrumental throughout the season, racking up 2,398 passing yards so far. In the ground game, Damon Bankston has been a reliable presence with 578 rushing yards, while backfield mate D.J. McKinney has chipped in with 454 yards of his own. On the receiving end, Keagan Johnson has emerged as a top target, amassing 730 receiving yards this season. Over their last five games, the Lobos have averaged 27.2 points per game. As they prepare to take on Minnesota in the Rate Bowl, New Mexico is aiming to finish the season with an impressive seven-game winning streak, providing them with plenty of confidence and momentum as they look ahead to next year.

Key Players

UNM QB Jack Layne this season: 199/302, 13 TD, 9 INT
MINN QB Drake Lindsey this season: 228/361, 16 TD, 6 INT

Betting Odds & Market Overview:

MINN -2.5; O/U 43.5

New Mexico vs. Minnesota Picks and Prediction

Minnesota stands as a tough obstacle for New Mexico’s impressive six-game winning streak, with both teams set to meet in the Rate Bowl in Phoenix. Throughout this season, New Mexico has relied heavily on their offense, coming up big when it mattered most to clinch six straight victories. As the final game of their season approaches, they’ll be hoping their offensive firepower can once again make the difference and help them finish on a high note. Final Score Prediction, Minnesota Golden Gophers win and cover the spread, 29-17. Betting on sports and on Minnesota is easy, but even easier if you use the best sportsbooks. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for New Mexico with the social sportsbooks. Getting the most out of your bets on Minnesota vs New Mexico can be done by using the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions