SILVER CITY, NM - Last week, the Western New Mexico Mustangs were in a high-scoring battle at New Mexico Highlands. WNMU dropped the game 69–55, but there were plenty of bright spots to carry forward into this week. 

Offensive Highlights

• Explosive passing attack. Quarterback Connor Ackerley (Tempe, Arizona/Corona Del Sol High School) lit up the field, completing 34 of 57 passes for 529 passing yards and seven touchdowns. That level of air assault gives opposing defenses nightmares. 

• Big-play potential. Derrick Sailor (Glendale, AZ/Copper Canyon High School) went off with 159 yards receiving and two TDs. Deuce Zimmerman (Anchorage, AK/East Anchorage High School) added 92 yards and two scores. And Jacob Helt (Chandler, AZ/Corona Del Sol High School) made his mark too. If you're going to lose a game, at least do it while throwing haymakers. 

• Fighting Spirit. Even though WNMU trailed by wide margins, especially early, there were push-backs in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarters. Drives of 85 yards, 75 yards, and another long effort showed the team's never-say-die heart.

Looking Ahead: Mustangs vs. West Texas A&M

Given what we saw last week, here's what to watch for in tonight's game:

• Exploit the passing strengths. If Ackerley can connect early and often like he did vs Highlands, that could open up everything — short passes, getting receivers in space, maybe even stretch plays.

• Need for a stronger run game. The rushing attack needs to pick up more yardage and consistency. Not just for balance, but to keep West Texas A&M off the field, control tempo, and rest the defense.

• Defense must clamp down early. Minimizing big plays will be huge. Giving up long runs or big chunk plays gives momentum away. If WNMU can tighten up in the first half, they have a shot at staying competitive throughout.

WT's Last Game: Tight Loss to Mines (33-31)

West Texas A&M narrowly dropped a 33-31 decision in Canyon, showing some strengths and some areas they'll want to tighten up. 

• Balanced rushing attack: Martinez led the ground game hard, with 147 net rushing yards on 23 carries, including 3 rushing touchdowns. 

• Passing game mixed: The Buffs passed for 274 yards, but with no passing touchdowns and one interception. 

• Big plays matter: There were some explosive moments — a 41-yard run, a 55-yard pass, etc. But Mines also made the key plays when needed. 

• Red zone execution was solid: WT was 4-for-4 in red zone scoring chances. That shows discipline and ability to finish drives under pressure.

• Penalties and long scoring drives from opponent: Mines had big, momentum swinging drives, and some WT penalties hurt in those tight moments. 
   

Kickoff's at 6:00 PM at Ben Altamirano Field. First Responders Night. If you're there, bring your voice — it could be the spark that shifts the momentum.