Colorado School of Mines closes its season Saturday against New Mexico Highlands, with Senior Day honoring 32 players before kickoff. The Orediggers are looking to rebound from a loss that ended their six-game winning streak, while Highlands arrives after a high-scoring win and brings a productive offense—but a defense that has struggled.

By the Numbers
  • Mines: 6-3-1 overall and 6-2 in RMAC play; Highlands: 4-6 and 2-6.
  • Kickoff is scheduled for 12:05 p.m. Saturday at Marv Kay Stadium in Golden.
  • Mines has won 12 straight meetings with Highlands; the all-time series stands at 32-26-2.
  • Highlands averages 33.1 points per game and allows 44.8; Mines gives up 100.7 rushing yards per game.
  • Senior Day will recognize 32 Mines players.
Yes, But

Mines has the stronger record and a long winning streak in the series, but it is coming off a 41-20 loss in which Western Colorado pulled away after halftime. Highlands has been giving up plenty of points, yet its offense scored 42 in last week’s win and could test the Orediggers.

State of Play
  • Mines remains No. 14 in Super Region IV’s NPI rankings and received a vote in the AFCA poll for the fifth consecutive week.
  • The game streams on the pay-per-view RMAC Network and will not air on TV.
  • Saturday’s forecast calls for a high of 49 degrees, cloudy skies and a 20% chance of an afternoon shower.
What’s Next

Saturday’s game is the season finale for both teams. Mines will aim to finish at home with a win and honor its seniors; the preview does not specify what postseason implications, if any, remain.

Bottom Line

Mines has the historical edge and the more reliable defense, but it will need a sharper second-half performance to close the season on a high note against a Highlands offense capable of putting points on the board.