UNM FOOTBALL
Fired up: New Mexico dominates Central Michigan for season-opening win
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New Mexico had no trouble stopping Central Michigan.
Central Michigan had plenty of trouble stopping New Mexico.
Not much more needs to be said.
Behind a dominant defensive performance, UNM smashed Central Michigan 38-7 Saturday night to open its second season under coach Jason Eck with a win at University Stadium.
Sophomore Toa Fa鈥檃vae and junior Luke Moga split reps in UNM鈥檚 multi-quarterback system, combining to complete 17 of 25 passes for 159 yards and one touchdown. James Laubstein also saw time in short yardage situations, rushing for 18 yards and two touchdowns.
The Lobos (1-0) outgained the Chippewas 364-109.
Key stat: UNM held Central Michigan to a paltry 30 passing yards.
Turning point: Running back Scottre Humphrey鈥檚 7-yard rushing touchdown with 7:18 left in the first quarter. UNM scored on its next three drives to take a 20-point halftime lead and put the game well out of reach for an overmatched Central Michigan offense.
Lobo up: Safety Drew Speech sacked Central Michigan quarterback Angel Flores on the visiting team's opening drive, forcing the first of four straight three-and-outs for the Chippewas. Central Michigan did not pick up a first down until the final minute of the second quarter.
Lobo down: There were few real negatives for UNM on Saturday night. But wide receiver Massiah Mingo (two catches for 26 yards), tight end Tripp Walsh (one catch for five yards) and right guard Jaymar Tasi all missed the second half with injuries.
Add-ons: UNM reported 24,126 fans in attendance at University Stadium 鈥� The Lobos have now won eight straight games at home, a streak dating back to 2024 鈥�
Next up: UNM hosts Mercyhurst (0-2) next Saturday at 2 p.m. in University Stadium. The game will be broadcast on MW+, the Mountain West鈥檚 subscription-based streaming service.
Sean Reider covers college football and other sports for the Journal. You can reach him at sreider@abqjournal.com or via X at .
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