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At the Sept. 21 press conference, New Mexico State's coach said the offensive line's blocking fits at Hawaii were better than in the first two games, although missed opportunities remained. He described progress from the five linemen playing together, not a change in the starting unit.

New Mexico State plans to vary its offensive alignments against New Mexico's stout run defense while establishing a downhill run game and attacking downfield. The coach warned against letting defenders sit in the box; this was a preparation plan, not an announced new formation or personnel package.

Ahead of New Mexico, the coach identified back-end tackling and poor defensive starts as problems to correct, specifically emphasizing the opening possessions of both halves. Against scrambling quarterbacks, he wants pass rushers to maintain leverage and rush lanes rather than allow escapes outside.

New Mexico State's coach said Saturday begins a stretch of three games in 12 days. He viewed the preceding bye as helpful recovery time after long trips to Tallahassee and Hawaii, with another game coming the following Thursday.