Why Did New Mexico State Play 13 Games: A Journey Through Chaos and Confusion

The question of why New Mexico State played 13 games in a single season is one that has puzzled sports enthusiasts, statisticians, and casual observers alike. To unravel this mystery, we must delve into a labyrinth of scheduling quirks, unexpected events, and perhaps even a touch of cosmic irony. This article explores the myriad reasons—both logical and absurd—that could explain this peculiar phenomenon.

1. The Scheduling Anomaly

At the heart of the matter lies the scheduling anomaly. College football schedules are typically set months, if not years, in advance. However, unforeseen circumstances such as cancellations, rescheduling due to weather, or even global pandemics can disrupt the best-laid plans. New Mexico State might have found itself in a situation where it had to play an extra game to fulfill contractual obligations or to make up for a previously canceled match.

2. The Quest for Bowl Eligibility

In the world of college football, bowl eligibility is a coveted status. Teams strive to win at least six games to secure a spot in a postseason bowl game. New Mexico State, perhaps desperate to achieve this milestone, might have agreed to play an additional game in hopes of securing that elusive sixth win. This extra game could have been a last-minute addition, arranged in a bid to boost their record and improve their postseason prospects.

3. The Experimental Season

What if New Mexico State was part of an experimental season where the NCAA decided to test the limits of player endurance and team resilience? In this hypothetical scenario, the team could have been selected to play an extra game as part of a broader study on the impact of extended schedules on player performance, injury rates, and overall team dynamics. While this theory might seem far-fetched, it’s not entirely outside the realm of possibility in the ever-evolving world of college sports.

4. The Rivalry Game That Never Was

Rivalry games are a staple of college football, often carrying more weight than regular-season matchups. Perhaps New Mexico State had a longstanding rivalry game that was initially canceled but later rescheduled due to popular demand. This rescheduled game could have pushed their total number of games to 13, adding an extra layer of drama and intensity to their season.

5. The Financial Incentive

Money makes the world go round, and college football is no exception. An extra game could have been a financial boon for New Mexico State, providing additional revenue from ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and sponsorships. In an era where athletic departments are constantly seeking ways to boost their budgets, the decision to play an additional game might have been a calculated financial move.

6. The Cosmic Alignment

Sometimes, the universe has a way of aligning in the most unexpected ways. Perhaps New Mexico State’s 13-game season was the result of a cosmic alignment, where the stars, planets, and football gods conspired to create a season unlike any other. This theory, while not grounded in empirical evidence, adds a layer of mystique to the team’s journey.

7. The Administrative Oversight

In the chaotic world of college athletics, administrative oversights are not uncommon. It’s possible that a simple clerical error led to New Mexico State being scheduled for an extra game. Whether it was a miscommunication between conferences, a scheduling software glitch, or a human error, the result was a 13-game season that left everyone scratching their heads.

8. The Fan-Driven Decision

Fans are the lifeblood of college sports, and their voices can sometimes influence decisions at the highest levels. Perhaps New Mexico State’s fanbase clamored for an additional game, whether to see their team in action one more time or to witness a specific matchup. In response to this overwhelming demand, the administration might have decided to add an extra game to the schedule.

9. The Media Frenzy

In the age of 24/7 sports coverage, media attention can play a significant role in shaping a team’s schedule. A particularly compelling storyline or a high-profile player might have led to increased media interest in New Mexico State, prompting the addition of an extra game to capitalize on the buzz. This game could have been a marquee matchup designed to draw in viewers and generate headlines.

10. The Legacy of 13

Finally, there’s the number 13 itself—a number often associated with superstition and mystery. Perhaps New Mexico State’s 13-game season was a nod to this cultural phenomenon, a deliberate choice to embrace the unconventional and challenge the norms of college football scheduling. In doing so, the team might have sought to create a legacy that would be remembered for years to come.

Q: Could New Mexico State’s 13-game season be a record? A: While it’s unusual, it’s not necessarily a record. College football teams have occasionally played more than 12 games in a season, especially when factoring in bowl games or conference championships.

Q: How does playing an extra game affect player fatigue? A: An additional game can increase the physical and mental strain on players, potentially leading to higher injury rates and decreased performance in subsequent games.

Q: Are there any benefits to playing an extra game? A: Yes, an extra game can provide additional revenue, more exposure for the team, and an opportunity to improve the team’s record and postseason prospects.

Q: Could this happen again in the future? A: It’s possible, especially in a landscape where scheduling is increasingly influenced by external factors such as pandemics, financial considerations, and media demands.

Q: How do fans typically react to an extra game? A: Reactions can vary. Some fans might be thrilled at the opportunity to see their team play again, while others might be concerned about the added strain on players and the potential impact on the team’s performance.