Western New Mexico University’s football team faced New Mexico Highlands University in the La Batalla Bowl, marking their 14th meeting since 2003. The Cowboys defeated the Mustangs 69-55, evening the rivalry at seven wins each.
The game began with a kickoff return for a touchdown by NMHU. WNMU answered with a drive that ended in an 18-yard touchdown pass from Connor Ackerley to Derrick Sailor, tying the score at 7-7. However, penalties and an interception stalled the Mustangs’ progress, and NMHU closed the first quarter ahead 28-7.
In the second quarter, NMHU extended its lead before Ackerley connected with Sailor for an 84-yard touchdown. Zay Savoie added a rushing touchdown for WNMU later in the half. Before halftime, Ackerley found Deuce Zimmerman for another score, narrowing the gap to 38-28.
The third quarter featured more offense from both teams. Ackerley threw two more touchdowns—to Anthony Flores and Jacob Helt—while Western’s defense forced a fumble recovered by Cole Lalama. Still, NMHU maintained its advantage thanks to an 80-yard run by Jeffery Jones.
Both teams combined for a record-setting 1,287 offensive yards in La Batalla Bowl history. In the fourth quarter, Ackerley led drives that tied the game twice, including a key pass to Zimmerman with just over seven minutes remaining. NMHU responded with additional scores to secure the win as WNMU’s final drive ended without points.
Ackerley finished with 529 passing yards on 34 completions out of 57 attempts and threw seven touchdowns—a modern-era school record since 2011—and recorded the second-most passing yards in a single game for WNMU. Sailor had five receptions for 159 yards and two touchdowns; Zimmerman caught nine passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns. On defense, Lalama recovered a fumble and tallied seven tackles.
For NMHU, running back Jones ran for 385 yards on 24 carries and scored four times. Quarterback Ike Udengwu passed for 135 yards and one touchdown while receiver Mason Peterson contributed both rushing and receiving yardage along with a touchdown catch. Freshman defender Awsten Turnbow led his team with eleven tackles, one interception, and a blocked kick.
The Mustangs are now even at one win and one loss this season. Their next game is against West Texas A&M at Ben Altamirano Field in Silver City during First Responders Night.
"Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram)."
