Aztecs on the Brink: Championship Hopes and NFL Talent Collide in New Mexico Showdown
A victory for San Diego State on Friday afternoon at New Mexico will secure the Aztecs the Mountain West regular-season title and the right to host the conference championship game on December 5 at Snapdragon Stadium. Beyond the championship implications, the 46th meeting between SDSU and the Lobos offers a prime opportunity to scout several potential NFL prospects.
San Diego State’s Path to the Title
The stakes are clear for the Aztecs. A win against New Mexico guarantees them the top spot in the Mountain West and home-field advantage for the championship game. This represents a significant opportunity for the program to build on its recent success and potentially earn a bowl game berth.
NFL Draft Prospects: A Deep Dive
This Friday’s contest isn’t just about team accolades; it’s a showcase for individual talent vying for attention from NFL scouts. Here’s a closer look at four players who could hear their names called in the upcoming draft:
Bryce Phillips, Cornerback, San Diego State
The Aztecs’ secondary is quickly becoming a hotbed for professional talent, and Bryce Phillips is a key component. After transferring from Tennessee State last year, the senior has thrived opposite Chris Johnson, demonstrating the versatility to play multiple positions. At 6-feet and 195 pounds, Phillips possesses the size and physicality to excel as a nickelback or even a safety at the next level. According to Pro Football Focus, he’s tied for sixth among cornerbacks with at least 500 snaps this season in run defense (86.2) and 15th in tackling (84.7). Adding to his pedigree, Phillips is the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons cornerback Clark Phillips III.
Joseph Borjon, Offensive Tackle, San Diego State
Joseph Borjon’s journey to potential NFL stardom is a testament to resilience. After missing most of last season due to a torn ACL, the senior right tackle has rebounded impressively. Boasting prototypical size at 6-8 and 338 pounds, coupled with strong arms and smooth footwork, Borjon has proven capable of holding his own against opposing pass rushers. His athletic background is unique, having initially outgrown baseball before returning to football as a high school junior. Scouts see significant developmental upside in the veteran lineman.
Keyshawn James-Newby, Edge Rusher, New Mexico
New Mexico’s Keyshawn James-Newby represents a compelling underdog story. His path to the FBS level was unconventional, beginning at Montana Tech (NAIA) before a standout season at Idaho. Last year, he recorded two sacks and a forced fumble against No. 3 Oregon and three sacks and a forced fumble against Wyoming. He’s continued to impress at the FBS level, amassing 44 tackles, seven sacks, five passes defensed, and a forced fumble for the Lobos this season. Pro Football Focus currently ranks him as the 17th-best edge rusher in total defense (84.2) and tied for 11th in pass rush (91.1) among players with at least 400 snaps, putting him in the company of players like Texas A&M’s Cashius Howell.
Jaxton Eck, Linebacker, New Mexico
Following in his father’s footsteps, Jaxton Eck joined head coach Jason Eck at New Mexico after a stellar career at Idaho. The junior linebacker has quickly become a defensive force, leading the Lobos with 115 tackles this season – a total that ranks 10th nationally and second in the Mountain West. Standing at 6-1 and 224 pounds, Eck displays elite instincts and relentless pursuit against the run. Pro Football Focus grades him as the 14th-best linebacker in run defense (88.3) among those with at least 400 snaps.
Friday’s game promises to be a thrilling contest with significant implications for both teams, and a valuable opportunity for NFL scouts to evaluate the next generation of football talent.
