UTEP is 1-6 overall and winless in Mountain West conference play in its first season in the conference. Through three conference games, the Miners have been outscored 115-31. Head coach Scotty Walden said the team's focus is on winning this week and finishing the season strong.
UTEP travels to Fargo to face North Dakota State, which is 6-2 overall and 3-2 in conference play. The Bison are also in their first Mountain West season after moving up from the FCS. Head coach Tim Polasek said the team must keep its winning habits while competing every week in the FBS. The Bison lost 21-16 to conference leader New Mexico last week. UTEP is considered a significant underdog.
Walden said the Miners worked on protecting the quarterback, finishing drives in the red zone and limiting explosive plays on defense. Kicker Carlos Arreola has made three of eight field goal attempts this season. Starting quarterback EJ Colson is questionable for the game. If he cannot play, Raymond Moore III will make his second start in three games.