SILVER CITY, N.M. — Western New Mexico University (2-9) fell to Midwestern State University (3-8) in a 70-23 defeat at Ben Altamirano Field. The Mustangs' offensive highlight included three passing touchdowns, but the opposition had a big game with 515 passing yards and eight touchdowns through the air.

Western New Mexico began play by receiving the opening kickoff, but their initial drive stalled after Zay Savoie (Apache Junction, AZ/Red Mountain High School) rushed for 6 yards over two carries and an incomplete pass by Connor Ackerley (Tempe, Arizona/Corona Del Sol High School). A 12-yard completion to Jalen Murphy (Bakersfield, CA/Liberty High School) gave the Mustangs a first down, but the drive ended with a sack and a subsequent punt. The Mustangs' next possession showcased a series of completions by Ackerley, including a 27-yard pass to Savoie, advancing them into the red zone. However, a missed 29-yard field goal attempt by Talan Tinsley (Queen Creek, AZ/Queen Creek High School) left them scoreless.

Midwestern St. capitalized on their opportunities, scoring a touchdown and converting two field goals, ending the first quarter with a 13-0 lead over the hosts. Despite several successful plays, Western New Mexico was unable to convert their progress into points by the close of the first quarter.

WNMU struggled in the second quarter as Midwestern St. built a significant lead. Despite a promising start with Ackerley's 3-yard rush for a first down, a sack and penalties stalled their progress. Midwestern St. capitalized with three touchdowns, including a 75-yard rush by Reginald Williams at 5:17. Eli Wehbey's (Red Bluff, CA/Shasta College) 16-yard touchdown pass to Gavin Placencio (Silver City, NM/Cobre High School) at 1:51 finally put Western N.M. on the scoreboard, though Midwestern St. responded with yet another touchdown just 13 seconds later. The period ended with Midwestern St. leading 41-7, a margin that would stand as the final score.

WNMU faced a setback early in the third quarter when Wehbey's pass was intercepted by Carson Roper, leading to a quick touchdown drive by Midwestern St., extending their lead. Despite the turnover, the Mustangs responded with a long drive, culminating in a 42-yard touchdown pass from Wehbey to Anthony Flores (Casa Grande, AZ/Casa Grande Union High School) with just over two minutes remaining. This score narrowed the gap, but the period ended with Midwestern St. maintaining a 51-14 lead, which was also the final score of the game.

The Mustangs began the fourth quarter with a defensive stand, as Deven Dyer (Albuquerque, NM/New Mexico State Univ) pressured the quarterback, leading to an incomplete pass. Despite Midwestern St.'s early touchdown, Western New Mexico responded with a determined drive. Wehbey connected with Flores for a 9-yard gain, and later orchestrated a 52-yard touchdown pass to Davey Morales (Queen Creek, AZ/Queen Creek High), narrowing the gap to 58-23 after Tinsley added the extra point.

Midway through the period, WNMU's defense forced a safety, adding two more points. However, Midwestern St. continued to capitalize on their offensive opportunities, extending their lead with another touchdown. In the closing minutes, Western New Mexico's efforts fell short on a fourth-down play, resulting in a turnover. The game concluded with Midwestern St. securing a 70-23 victory.

Wehbey completed 21 of 34 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his effectiveness in the air. Morales recorded six receptions for 131 yards and added a touchdown, making a significant impact in the passing game. Flores contributed four catches for 67 yards, including a touchdown, helping to boost the team's offensive efforts. Defensively, Bradly Harris (Lancaster, CA/Mt Sac) led with eight total tackles, anchoring the team's defensive performance.

Quarterback Sean Jastrab excelled with 356 passing yards, completing 21 of 31 attempts and throwing four touchdowns without an interception. Wide receiver Cedonyae Lott made a significant impact with 284 receiving yards on 11 catches and scored four touchdowns. Freshman running back Williams contributed on the ground with 110 rushing yards on 13 attempts and added a touchdown. Case Peacock also stood out in the receiving corps, recording 109 yards and two touchdowns on six receptions. On defense, Darrell Tripline Jr. led with eight tackles and a sack.

WNMU stands at 2-9 overall and holds a conference record of 1-8. Midwestern St. is 3-8 overall with a conference record of 3-6.