The rivalry between New Mexico and New Mexico State began in 1894 and predated New Mexico becoming a US state. The Lobos have gotten the better of the Aggies over the years holding a 70-31-5 all-time series, but the Aggies will look to draw closer when these two instate rivals meet next.
UTEP and New Mexico State are both located along Interstate 10, which connects El Paso to Las Cruces. The proximity of these two universities has led to the establishment of a fierce rivalry on the gridiron that dates back 101 years to 1914 when the Aggies shutout UTEP 19-0. There are lots of fans of both teams at the games when these rivals meet, so make sure to attend the Battle of I-10 to witness one of the best games of the year.
Aggies Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
The parking lots surrounding Aggie Memorial Stadium turn into a sea of crimson and white as fans from all over the state come out to support their Aggies. The diehards show up bright and early to set up their tailgates in preparation for cheering on the Aggies and do so week in and week out regardless of whether the Aggies win or lose.
When attending an Aggies tailgate, you’ll find many tailgaters at New Mexico State like to put their cooking skills on display. Some fan favorites include brats, discos, chili, and carnitas. There is a unique southwestern flair to the food found here at New Mexico State so come prepared to enjoy some delicious regional fare.
The most important aspect of tailgating for Aggies fans is getting together with friends and family to enjoy a beautiful day chalked full of football action. There is a great deal of camaraderie between Aggies fans, so you’ll have no problem fitting right in as long as you are wearing Aggies gear or at the very least crimson and white.
Throw back a few brews and join in on the friendly experience that is tailgating before an Aggies game to get the most out of your visit to Las Cruces.
The Giant A on the mountains overlooking the stadium is quite the sight to behold and lets you know exactly who you are going to be seeing on the field. You’ll be able to see this giant landmark from many locations throughout the stadium, so make sure to take it in when attending an Aggies game.
The student tailgate area offers you the perfect chance to drink a few brews, grill some burgers, and play tailgate games with fellow students. This grassy area located in lot 34 is a great place for students to tailgate before the game, so make sure to check it out when attending an Aggies game.
The PastureThe student tailgate area offers you the perfect chance to drink a few brews, grill some burgers, and play tailgate games with fellow students. This grassy area located in lot 34 is a great place for students to tailgate before the game, so make sure to check it out when attending an Aggies game.
Lots 29, 30, and 105If you’re looking to tailgate, but don’t have a parking pass then Lots 29, 30, and 105 are the place for you. New Mexico State provides both public tailgate lots as well as pass controlled lots, so whether you’re a season ticket holder with a parking pass or just attending one game you’ll have no problem setting up a tailgate of your own. You’ll have an excellent time tailgating in the parking lots with fellow Aggies fans before watching a thrilling New Mexico State football game.
Aggies Stadium Guide
In Game
Despite their struggles on the field New Mexico State still manages to produce a top notch football game experience that any big time college football fan would relish the opportunity to take part in. You’ll find plenty of traditions on display when attending an Aggies game making a trip to Las Cruces well worth your time.
Whether it’s the Giant A overlooking the stands, Keystone leading the team onto the field, or the loud ringing of cowbells you’ll know that you’re taking in a Division I college football game based on the strong sense of tradition that surrounds you in Aggie Memorial Stadium. Right from the get go you’ll know you’re experiencing something special when the entire stadium erupts into cheers and applause when Keystone leads the team out onto the field. From there on things only get better, as you’ll take part in several time-honored Aggies traditions as the game goes along.
Aggie Memorial Stadium may look like a nondescript bowl from overhead, however, inside the stadium, you’ll find that there are plenty of subtle touches that give it a unique feel and let fans know exactly where they are when attending an Aggies game. The rock garden in the north end zone features several types of desert vegetation and gives the stadium a uniquely southwestern feel, while the retired numbers on the skyboxes pay tribute to some of the greatest players in Aggies history giving the stadium a unique flare.
Finally, the fans at Aggies games are among some of the most diehards around. Struggles on the field mean that at times the stadium isn’t quite as packed as other venues. However, when a major rival comes to town you’ll find a sea of crimson and white filling the stand of Aggie Memorial Stadium. No matter who the opposition is though the fans in attendance will cheer hard for the Aggies, as they root them onto victory.
You’ll have an outstanding time taking in a game at Aggie Memorial Stadium where you’ll find a ton of tradition and great fans who love football and their Aggies.
The Giant A on the mountains overlooking the stadium is quite the sight to behold and lets you know exactly who you are going to be seeing on the field. You’ll be able to see this giant landmark from many locations throughout the stadium, so make sure to take it in when attending an Aggies game.
The rock garden in the north end zone features several types of desert vegetation and gives the stadium a uniquely southwestern feel. Stop by and check it out during the game.
Not only is the Fulton Center Skybox home to the most luxurious seats in Aggie Memorial Stadium, but it also showcases the pride and tradition of Aggies athletics. On the outside of the skybox, you’ll be able to see the retired numbers of former Aggies greats, which showcases the strong football tradition that New Mexico State has to offer.
Located outside of the north end zone there is a banner that displays the school's fight song. This banner serves as the perfect way to remind Aggies fans of the words to the fight song while also providing the words to the song for first-time fans trying to get in on the rich tradition of Aggies football.
Every game you’ll be able to spot Keystone leading the team onto the field as the crowd erupts into an uproarious cheer. The horse then proceeds to run around the stadium before kickoff to pump up the crowd and get everyone worked up into a frenzy. The atmosphere created by Keystone is electric so make sure to get to your seat early as you wouldn’t want to miss this time-honored tradition.
After every Aggies kickoff Striking the Wonder Dog runs onto the field and retrieves the tee. This tradition is a fan favorite and something you’ll surely love to see as well when attending an Aggies game.
When attending an Aggies game make sure to stop by the team store and grab yourself a cowbell. During critical third down plays Aggies fans ring cowbells to create noise and provide their team with an incredible home field advantage.
Pistol Pete is the official cowboy mascot of New Mexico State and can be seen at all Aggies home games. He is portrayed by a student dressed in cowboy attire and roams the sideline entertaining fans of all ages throughout the game.
The Pride of New Mexico put on an excellent display at Aggies football games. The marching band performs both before and during the games and plays a key role in creating the superb atmosphere you’ll find at a New Mexico State football game.
Aggies, Oh Aggies! The hills send back the cry, We’re here to do or die! Aggies, Oh Aggies! We’ll win this game or know the reason why! And when we win this game, We’ll buy a keg of booze, And we’ll drink it to the Aggies ‘till we wobble in our shoes! (CHANT) A—G—G—I—E—S–! AGGIES! AGGIES! GO AGGIES! (Repeat First Verse)
Enjoy the area's BEST Aggie-themed sports bar in Las Cruces! The Game Sports Bar & Grill is only minutes from NMSU. Featuring great patio seating & awesome food specials, plus 42 ice cold beers on tap!
Everything from cooked to order pastas, pizzas and sandwiches, to homemade soups, seafood and juicy steaks. And don’t forget about the famous homemade bread that will have you addicted in one bite.
Watch video
