Lobos Overview

Fast facts

League: NCAA Football

Head Coach: Danny Gonzales

Team Mascot: Lobo

Year Opened: 1960

Capacity: 39224

City / State: Albuquerque / New Mexico

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Rio Grande Rivalry

Rival Team: New Mexico State Aggies

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 lead and have won the last four meetings between these instate rivals.

Kit Carson Rifle

Rival Team: Arizona Wildcats

The rivalry between the Arizona Wildcats and New Mexico Lobos dates all the way back to 1908. From 1938 to 1990 the two schools played for the Kit Carson Rifle. However, the trophy was retired due to concerns about the history of violence against Native Americans. Arizona holds a 43-20-3 lead in the rivalry, which has been dormant since 2008.

Lobos Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Tailgating is a big part of the gameday experience at New Mexico and as a result, fans will get to the stadium six hours before kickoff. Once you arrive at the stadium, you’ll see a sea of people dressed in red and black ready to get wild before watching the Lobos take the field.

The student tailgates feature some intense partying meaning if you’re coming to the game you should come prepared to let loose. At the New Mexico student tailgate, you’ll find a broad range of alcohol to be consumed and a wide variety of drinking activities to take part in including beer bongs and lines of shots. You may even see a kiddy pool filled with beer, so come prepared to get wild when attending a Lobos tailgate.

There is also plenty of school spirit at a Lobos tailgate as The Prowl takes places two and a half hours before kickoff. The Prowl gets everyone in the gameday spirit by providing fans the chance to see the team before they enter the stadium as they walk through the Howl Zone.

You’ll have a blast tailgating at New Mexico as you prepare for the Lobos to take down the opposition.

Traditions

Lobo Tailgate and Tents

If you’re looking to set up a massive tailgate party then the University of New Mexico has got you covered. This service allows you to rent anything you could possible need to set up an excellent tailgate party for your large group.

Howl Zone

Located on the north side of the stadium The Howl Zone is a free tailgate experience that offers fun for the whole family. Here you’ll find jumpers, balloon animals, food vendors, the Lobo Tailgate Show, and much more.

The Prowl

The Prowl is your chance to wish the team luck before they enter the stadium. Take a quick break from partying to stop by The Prowl prior to entering the stadium.

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Red Rally

On the Thursday before the Rio Grande Rivalry, there is a huge bonfire where an effigy of the New Mexico State mascot is burned. Join in on this fun tradition if you want to witness Lobo pride at its fullest.

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Where to tailgate

Lobos Stadium Guide

In Game

Located at 5,100 feet above sea level, University Stadium is one of the highest venues in the nation. There is even a warning as opposing teams enter the football field that warns them of acute altitude sickness, which is a nice way to intimidate the opposition as they take the field. It’s not every day you can say that you attended a football game at almost a mile above sea level.

You’ll also find that University Stadium provides a beautiful scenic view of the Sandia Mountains to those sitting on the east side of the stadium. The gorgeous view is worth the price of admission alone and makes you feel like you’re taking in a one of a kind spectacle.

The fans at New Mexico also provide an excellent atmosphere, as the Red Menace are some of the most die-hard fans in all of the college football. While basketball may be the sports New Mexico is best known for the Lobos faithful still show plenty of pride when it comes to cheering on their Lobos football team.

The beauty of the Sandia Mountains and the Red Menace create an outstanding game day experience that any college football fan would love.

Things to check out

Tow Diehm Tower

The tower is home to the University of New Mexico athletic facility and is part of University Stadium. Stop by before the game to see where the Lobos prepare for game day and to get into the New Mexico spirit.

Field Level Suites and End Zone Club

The End Zone Club provides a perfect place to take in a New Mexico football game. The club features a buffet and full bar as well as padded seats so that you can take in the game in luxury and comfort. It even offers an outdoor balcony giving you a unique indoor and outdoor game day experience.

Red Menace

Known as the Red Menace, the student section is located in the north end zone and creates a hostile environment each game. These are the most die hard fans in the stadium, so if you’re looking to cheer hard for Lobos then join the Red Menace.

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Lobo Leap

Lobo players mimic the Lambeau Leap by a leaping into the Red Menace after they score. This great tradition gets the crowd pumped and is an excellent way for the players to show their appreciation for the fans.

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Spirit Marching Band

The Spirit Marching Band puts on a great halftime show and pumps up the crowd throughout the game. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for the Spirit Marching Band when attending a Lobos football game.

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Fight Songs

  1. Hail, New Mexico

    Hail to thee, New Mexico,
    Thy loyal sons are we.  Marching down the field we go,
    Fighting for thee. RAH! RAH! RAH! Now we pledge our faith to thee,
    Never shall we fail. Fighting ever, yielding never.
    HAIL! HAIL! HAIL!
    Repeat

  2. Lobo Fanfare

Lobos Bars & Restaurants

  1. Saggios

    Saggios

    Choose from gourmet pizzas big and flavorful calzones, tasty sandwiches, salads, pasta and desserts. Beer and wine is served and if you have a craving for something sweet, try a piece of cheesecake.

    107 Cornell Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-5454

    Bar website

    italian - pizza - sportsbar - $$

  2. Nob Hill

    Nob Hill fries

    NHBG is a vibrant and cozy neighborhood restaurant without the typical neighborhood food, known for its award-winning burgers. However, that is just the beginning of our story.

    3128 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-266-4455

    Bar website

    american - $$

  3. Zacatecas

    Zacatecas drink

    Zacatecas is an authentic Mexican taqueria in the heart of Nob Hill.

    3423 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-8226

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  4. Zinc Wine Bar & Bistro

    Zinc Wine Bar and Bistro

    Zinc offers a formal yet relaxed atmosphere where diners can enjoy a quick bite with a glass of wine or settle in for a truly exquisite dining experience.

    3009 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-254-9462 (ZINC)

    Bar website

    american - $$

  5. Monte Vista

    Monte Vista tacos

    Located in the historic Nob Hill neighborhood, the Monte Vista Fire Station is more than just a restaurant but rather your place for food, fun and spirits.

    3201 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-2424

    Bar website

    american - $$

  6. Flying Star Cafe

    Flying Star Cafe

    We’re the place for handmade bakery desserts, fresh roasted coffee, and homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner all day long.

    3416 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-1128

    Bar website

    american - $$

  7. Two Fools

    Two Fools

    Two Fools Tavern is an unrelenting dream finally realized by folks who had a desire to bring a real Irish pub and eating establishment to Albuquerque, New Mexico.

    3211 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-265-7447

    Bar website

    european - $$

  8. Village Inn

    Village Inn breakfast

    Enjoy great-tasting food and extra-friendly service in a clean and comfortable family environment.

    2340 Yale Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-243-5476

    Bar website

    american - $$

  9. Frontier Restaurant

    Frontier Restaurant

    Serves great breakfasts, burritos, burgers, roasted green chile, homemade flour tortillas, fresh squeezed orange juice, and the famous Frontier Sweet Roll.

    2400 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-266-0550

    Bar website

    american - mexican - $

  10. Dion’s

    Dions

    ​At Dion’s we provide great food and a place for people to relax and connect with family and friends. We create ease, simplicity, and connection amidst the hustle and bustle of busy lives.

    11000 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123, USA

    505-296-0771

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  11. The Quarters BBQ

    The Quarters BBQ

    From BBQ ribs to mac n' cheese, we have something to satisfy any craving.

    801 Yale Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-843-6949 / 843-7505

    Bar website

    bbq - $$

  12. Scalo Northern Italian Grill

    Scalo Northern Italian Grill

    Amazing food and drinks, with great atmosphere and excellent service!

    3500 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-8781 / 505-265-7850

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  13. Carraro’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant

    Carraros Pizza Italian Restaurant

    Casual dining with a lively night life.

    108 Vassar Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-268-2300

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  14. P’tit Louis Bistro

    P’tit Louis Bistro

    P'tit Louis Bistro transports you back to the center of Paris, France, in the 1920's, where French Cuisine is expertly prepared for your pleasure.

    4940 Corrales Rd STE 400, Corrales, NM 87004, USA

    505-314-1110

    Bar website

    european - $$

  15. Brickyard Pizza

    Brickyard Pizza

    Great pizza, cool beers and spirits!

    2216 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-262-2216

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  16. Golden Pride BBQ

    Golden Pride BBQ

    Golden Pride carries the Frontier's famous Sweet Rolls, Tortillas, Green Chile Stew & Posolé

    1830 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-242-2181

    Bar website

    bbq - $

  17. El Patio De Albuquerque

    El Patio De Albuquerque_

    El Patio de Albuquerque Restaurant has been serving the finest traditional northern New Mexican cooking since 1977.

    142 Harvard Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-268-4245

    Bar website

    mexican - $$