Source - Associated Press
In a thrilling matchup that unfolded on Friday night, Cade Keith emerged as the hero for the New Mexico Lobos, catching a crucial 25-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jack Layne during the second overtime. This pivotal play propelled New Mexico to a 23-17 victory over San Diego State, following a tense first overtime that was marked by turnovers from both teams.
With this win, the Lobos improved their record to 9-3 overall and 6-2 within the Mountain West Conference, keeping their hopes alive for their first Mountain West championship title. The stakes are high as they'll clinch the regular-season title and earn the right to host the championship game next week, provided Utah State secures a victory over Boise State later that evening.
In addition to Keith's game-winning touchdown, the Lobos showcased a balanced offensive attack. James Laubstein and D.J. McKinney contributed significantly by scoring rushing touchdowns. At the same time, Dorian Thomas proved to be a reliable receiver, leading the team with 5 catches for 31 yards. Layne’s performance included completing 14 out of 25 passes for 127 yards, a solid contribution in a game that demanded precision under pressure.
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The overtime period was particularly chaotic, starting with San Diego State taking the first possession. However, their advance was swiftly thwarted when Austin Brawley intercepted quarterback Jayden Denegal on the very first play, shifting momentum in favor of the Lobos. Despite this initial setback, New Mexico faced its own challenges just three plays later when Laubstein fumbled at the critical 3-yard line, abruptly ending the first extension of the game without a score.
In the second overtime, Layne wasted no time, immediately connecting with Keith for the decisive touchdown on the very first play. With the game hanging in the balance, the Lobos’ defense stepped up magnificently, securing two critical sacks on San Diego State’s ensuing series. This ferocious defense forced the Aztecs into a desperate fourth-and-30 situation, which they failed to convert, sealing the fate of the game.
On the other side of the field, the Aztecs put forward a commendable effort, led by running back Lucky Sutton, who amassed 110 rushing yards and found the end zone once on 22 carries. With a record of 9-3 and a 5-3 mark in conference play, San Diego State also showcased its competitiveness, but ultimately fell short in a nail-biting finish.
As both teams look to their postseason prospects, the excitement of the Mountain West landscape remains palpable, with New Mexico inching closer to a historic championship opportunity.
The overtime period was particularly chaotic, starting with San Diego State taking the first possession. However, their advance was swiftly thwarted when Austin Brawley intercepted quarterback Jayden Denegal on the very first play, shifting momentum in favor of the Lobos. Despite this initial setback, New Mexico faced its own challenges just three plays later when Laubstein fumbled at the critical 3-yard line, abruptly ending the first extension of the game without a score.
In the second overtime, Layne wasted no time, immediately connecting with Keith for the decisive touchdown on the very first play. With the game hanging in the balance, the Lobos’ defense stepped up magnificently, securing two critical sacks on San Diego State’s ensuing series. This ferocious defense forced the Aztecs into a desperate fourth-and-30 situation, which they failed to convert, sealing the fate of the game.
On the other side of the field, the Aztecs put forward a commendable effort, led by running back Lucky Sutton, who amassed 110 rushing yards and found the end zone once on 22 carries. With a record of 9-3 and a 5-3 mark in conference play, San Diego State also showcased its competitiveness, but ultimately fell short in a nail-biting finish.
As both teams look to their postseason prospects, the excitement of the Mountain West landscape remains palpable, with New Mexico inching closer to a historic championship opportunity.
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