No. 23 North Texas vs. San Diego State in New Mexico Bowl

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, the San Diego State Aztecs face the No. 23 North Texas Mean Green in the New Mexico Bowl on Saturday afternoon at University Stadium. Kickoff is set for 2:45 p.m. PT, with the game airing on ESPN. The matchup pits a high-powered North Texas offense against San Diego State's stout defense, as both teams seek to cap strong seasons on a high note.

San Diego State enters with a 9-3 record, fresh off a 23-17 loss to New Mexico in their regular-season finale. The Aztecs relied heavily on their ground game throughout the year, ranking among the nation's leaders in rushing attempts. Leading that effort is running back Lucky Sutton, who amassed 1,237 yards and 10 touchdowns, topping the Mountain West Conference in rushing. Sutton's performance will be crucial, especially with the team starting backup quarterback Bert Emanuel Jr. in place of Jayden Denegal. Denegal underwent surgery on his non-throwing shoulder on December 17 to repair an injury from the season opener, sidelining him for the bowl.

Emanuel, a junior transfer from Central Michigan, steps in for his first start with the Aztecs. He appeared in 10 games this season, often spelling Denegal during...