SILVER CITY, N.M. — UT Permian Basin defeated Western New Mexico University 66-7 at Ben Altamirano Field, with the Falcons' offense accumulating 658 total yards. The Mustangs' sole touchdown came from a rushing play in the first quarter.

Early in the first quarter, the Falcons capitalized on a 59-yard pass from Kanon Gibson to Ben Patterson, setting up a touchdown shortly after. The Mustangs struggled initially but gained momentum later in the quarter. Connor Ackerley's (Tempe, Arizona/Corona Del Sol High School) 8-yard touchdown run at the end of a 72-yard drive closed the gap to 14-7 by the end of the first quarter.

The Mustangs faced challenges in the second quarter as the Falcons' defense capitalized on turnovers. After a 60-yard touchdown pass by Gibson to Jaylon Tillman extended the visitors' lead, Ackerley's pass was intercepted by Jalani Jefferson and returned for a touchdown, increasing the deficit. Ackerley found some success connecting with Anthony Flores (Casa Grande, AZ/Casa Grande Union High School), including a 21-yard gain, but his second interception by Jamarion Ravenell halted momentum late in the period. Turnovers proved costly, and despite efforts by Diego Morales (Queen Creek, AZ/ALA Queen Creek) and Gabriel Levy (Tucson, AZ/Cienega High School) on the ground, the Mustangs concluded the first half trailing 38-7.

The Mustangs faced challenges in advancing the ball during the third quarter, with Ackerley struggling under pressure, resulting in three sacks for a total loss of 12 yards. Despite this, Jalen Murphy (Bakersfield, CA/Liberty High School) provided a spark with a notable 13-yard rush, contributing to a drive that gained momentum but ultimately lacked scoring. 

The Falcons capitalized on their opportunities, scoring twice with Camden Tyler's 39-yard touchdown run and a 31-yard touchdown pass to Patterson. The Mustangs held firm defensively in some moments, including a key sack by Colten Swanson (Chandler, AZ/Perry High School), though these efforts were not enough to prevent a 14-point period for the Falcons. The third quarter concluded with the Falcons leading 52-7.

The Mustangs faced challenges in the fourth quarter, beginning with a turnover on downs at the Falcons' 27-yard line after Ackerley's incomplete pass attempt. The Falcons then capitalized by extending their lead with a touchdown at 10:52, despite a forced fumble by Cole Lalama (Queen Creek, AZ/Queen Creek High) that was immediately recovered by the Falcons. 

The Mustangs continued to struggle offensively, hindered by penalties and incomplete passes. Eli Wehbey's (Red Bluff, CA/Shasta College) passing attempts were unsuccessful, and a false start penalty set them back further. Ultimately, the Falcons maintained control, adding another touchdown to conclude the game with a final score of 66-7.

Kanon Gibson led the offensive effort with 323 passing yards on 16-of-27 completions and three touchdown passes. Kory Harris contributed significantly on the ground, carrying the ball 17 times for 112 yards and two touchdowns. On the receiving end, Ben Patterson made a notable impact with three catches for 115 yards and one touchdown. Defensively, David Walker registered two sacks, while Will LeBlanc recovered a fumble and returned it for 23 yards.

Ackerley completed 13 of 28 passes for 104 yards while adding a rushing touchdown on 14 carries. Flores recorded four receptions for 40 yards, contributing to the team's aerial attack. On defense, Bradly Harris (Lancaster, CA/Mt Sac) led with eight tackles, providing a solid presence in the secondary. Christian Nunnally (Phoenix, AZ/Saguaro High School) and Swanson each posted a sack for the Mustangs.

The Mustangs stand at 2-7 overall and 1-6 in conference play. The Falcons hold a 7-2 record overall and are 5-2 in conference matchups.

Western N.M. will face Texas A&M - Kingsville on Saturday, Nov. 8, at 6 p.m. at Pepsi Field at Javelina Stadium in Kingsville, Texas.