Las Vegas Bowl features two standout running backs

? Oregon State running back Steven Jackson has picked up plenty of yards, publicity and respect this season.

Don’t expect that to change New Mexico’s defensive strategy in tonight’s Las Vegas Bowl.

“We come to play defense, no matter who we play, it just happens we’re playing Mr. Jackson,” New Mexico linebacker Daniel Gawronski said.

“You can tell he’s from the South, a lot of respect,” Jackson said.

The Lobos (8-4) have reason to be confident, even if they’re facing the Pac-10’s leading rusher. New Mexico’s defense ranked fourth nationally against the run this season, allowing just over 80 yards a game.

Still, the Lobos face a tall order in trying to stop Jackson, who is considering skipping his senior season and entering the NFL draft.

Jackson scored 17 touchdowns this season and rushed for 1,396 yards.

“They run a lot of screens and a lot draws to get him the ball,” New Mexico coach Rocky Long said.

But Jackson isn’t the only outstanding running back in the game.

New Mexico sophomore DonTrell Moore set single-season school records with 1,438 yards rushing, 21 touchdowns and nine games of over 100 yards rushing.

“It ain’t no secret what they’re going to do,” Oregon State linebacker Richard Seigler said. “They’re going to run.”

And, just like Jackson, Moore will have to do it against one of the best run defenses in the country.

The Beavers (7-5) ranked seventh in the nation against the run, giving up just 91 yards per game.