Dick Harmon: New Mexico Bowl figures to be decided by QBs, trench play

"In many ways, this has been the most enjoyable, most fulfilling and most fun year I've had coaching," said Mendenhall.

It also might be his best coaching job in his career after impacting BYU's defense following a loss at Utah State, when he subsequently fired defensive coordinator Jaime Hill and took over his duties.

BYU comes into the New Mexico Bowl with a blend of veterans and rookies who are humbled and eager to get a victory — taking nothing for granted.

Mendenhall told the media he had a 10-win team that lost to Arizona in the 2008 bowl game, so 6-6 versus 10 wins sometimes provides a completely different approach and attitude (more hunger) and he sees that in this 2011 squad.

Prediction?

BYU 28, UTEP 14: BYU's superior play in the trenches will be the difference in consistent playmaking. That, in turn, will give BYU better field position, longer and more successful drives and a better run game. UTEP'S best chance is for turnovers and huge plays with returns on special teams, which is the Miners' strength.

e-mail: dharmon@desnews.com