It has been 250 days since Central Michigan’s football team has taken the turf in search of victory. After many months of preparation and anticipation, the Chippewas go to battle again against New Mexico on Saturday at 10 p.m.

The long offseason has created a shift in perspective across the board for CMU, with the program looking inward at how they wish to mentally approach each game this season.

Beginning with the showdown against the Lobos, each maroon and gold helmet worn by Central Michigan will bear the words and symbols of the Seven Grandfather Teachings of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, written in both English and the Anishinaabemowin languages.

These teachings, which emphasize the traits of respect, wisdom, love, bravery, honesty, truth and humility, reflect the mission CMU hopes to pursue in 2026.

“There are so many of the teachings that parallel exactly what we’re trying to do,” head coach Matt Drinkall said. “It’s a great education piece that ties the school together with the community and the Tribe … and we’re excited for everybody to learn more about it all year.”

After donning these updated helmets proudly representing the program’s vision in 2026, CMU can turn its focus to what awaits on the field.

Meet the opponent

New Mexico is in the hunt to maintain its momentum after a 9-4 campaign last season, with the program moving into the second year of head coach Jason Eck’s tenure in Albuquerque.

The Lobos allowed 342 yards per game in 2025 and boasted the strongest run defense in the Mountain West Conference, only giving up 112.8 rushing yards per game. Linebacker Jaxton Eck remains the cornerstone of the unit after winning the conference’s co-Defensive Player of the Year award.

With 63% of the roster’s total production returning this year, ranking 21st in the nation in continuity, New Mexico is well-positioned to compete for the MWC title. However, the team has been forced to shift gears following a season-ending injury to quarterback Jack Layne's elbow.

Throughout the season opener, New Mexico plans to rotate between two or three quarterbacks to determine its solution under center for 2026. Senior James Laubstein, junior transfer Luke Moga and sophomore Toa Fa'avae are expected to split the snaps for the Lobos.

“[New Mexico] is going to be ready to roll,” Drinkall said. “They always have really dynamic ways to alter their game plans to play to their strengths.”

Keys to victory

New Mexico’s defense has the potential to shut down the Chippewas quickly, especially with the level of physicality up front. Central Michigan must opt for a stronger passing attack and utilize the option play to make noise offensively.

Quarterback Angel Flores has taken over the starting job for CMU, but the team will continue to run a multiple quarterback system with junior Jadyn Glasser as the secondary option.

“It’s really cool to go out there back to the West Coast and pretty close to home,” Flores, an Arizona native, said. “I’ve built a lot of really close connections with my teammates, and I’m excited to go out there and go to war with them.”

Defensively, the Chippewas have an early opportunity to prove themselves against a team suddenly searching to replace their injured quarterback. With so many new faces wearing maroon and gold, the defense can jump out to a hot start if it meshes quickly.

“It’s like a line change in hockey,” Drinkall said. “There’s a million new guys, and we really think our depth is going to be a huge advantage during the course of the year.”

Additionally, the Lobos suffered 23 turnovers in 2025, while CMU forced 21 turnovers on the year, which could serve as an advantage for the team from Mount Pleasant if the team maintains that level of play.

If Central Michigan can keep New Mexico’s offense off the field while developing their abilities on offense, a statement win on the road in Saturday night's game could very well be in play.

Central Michigan University (0-0) vs. University of New Mexico (0-0)

Time: 10:00 p.m.

Date: Saturday, Sep. 5

Stadium: University Stadium

Location: Albuquerque, N.M.

TV: FS1