The first night of festivities just concluded here in Albuquerque for the Wyoming and Fresno State football teams as they prepare for Saturday’s New Mexico Bowl.

Both teams arrived late Wednesday morning or early in the afternoon. UW brought 92 players and everyone who was supposed to be on the plane made the trip — walk-ons included.

There was a welcome dinner at the El Pinto, one of the finest Mexican resturants in Albuquerque. But before the food was served, the winner of the chili cook-off between the two teams was announced. Fresno State won 3-2 from the panel of five judges.

But that might be a good sign for UW. Fresno State won the chili cook-off against Colorado State in last year’s New Mexico Bowl and lost the game to the Rams 40-35.

Then there was a talent show with the players. UW true freshman Kenny Browder did a couple of his own raps, along with fellow true freshman Ghaali Muhammad and Alvester Alexander. Browder was impressive.

Fresno State was represented by senior receiver Marlon Moore, who read more of a poem than did a rap. He too was good.

A winner was not announced.

There seems to be more enthusiasm for UW here than Fresno State. That was the impression I got from this opening event. Fresno State coach Pat Hill looked like he would have rather been anywhere  than at this event. He was pleasant, but I think he wanted to break down film or do some game planning instead of schmoozing with people.

Some of the UW players were wearing New Mexico Bowl travel suits, hats and T-shirts. The media also received a gift package, that included a backpack/computer bag and a customized pen with the New Mexico Bowl logo.

And the announcer of the event acknowledged the birthday of UW equipment manager Michael “Mad Dog” Aaonsen, who has been with UW for nearly 30 years.

Both teams have full practice sessions today at the University of New Mexico practice fields, and there also is a team dinner/bowling event planned in the evening.

Weather is cool — in the 40s and low 50s — and there isn’t a cloud in the sky. It should be perfect football weather Saturday.

See Thursday’s paper for more New Mexico Bowl coverage, including the latest ticket sales figures for UW (which are good) and how this bowl game and UW’s last bowl appearance in 2004 are quite similar.

Myself, WTE photo editor Michael Smith and Laramie Boomerang sports reporter Ryan Lucas arrived safely in Albuquerque this morning, even though we got a little lost finding our hotel. Anyone who knows me can’t be surprised by that. I can get lost in my own room.

Both Wyoming and Fresno State are scheduled to arrive here today, and both will be at a welcome dinner at the El Pinto Restaurant at 5:30 p.m. I will let you know how that went and Michael will post some photos on this blog.

Here is a story on Fresno State junior running back Ryan Matthews. I have a feeling more honors could be coming his way.

http://www.fresnobee.com/sports/bulldogs/story/1749724.html