Felix Chavez/El Paso Times
A big aspect of New Mexico State's turnaround is with its defense.
That unit is only ranked 98th nationally, but that is a big improvement over the recent past and has led to a big improvement with the team as a whole. In a way, the defense is a microcosm of the Aggies and how they've gotten better.
"We're better in the front-seven, the down guys and the linebackers, we're playing much better there," coach Doug Martin said. "I think (defensive line coach John) Mumford was a great addition to our staff.