Last week, the Western New Mexico University Mustangs lost to New Mexico Highlands in a high-scoring football game, ending with a score of 69–55. Despite the defeat, the team saw several strong performances.
Quarterback Connor Ackerley completed 34 of 57 passes for 529 yards and threw seven touchdowns. Derrick Sailor had 159 receiving yards and two touchdowns, while Deuce Zimmerman added 92 yards and two scores. Jacob Helt also contributed to the passing game. The Mustangs managed long scoring drives in multiple quarters despite trailing early in the contest.
Looking ahead to their upcoming game against West Texas A&M, key areas for improvement include establishing a more effective running attack and tightening defensive play early in the game. "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." The team aims to use its passing strengths but recognizes that controlling tempo through better rushing is necessary.
The Mustangs will also focus on reducing big plays by opponents. "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."
West Texas A&M enters the matchup after a close loss to Mines by a score of 33-31. In that game, Martinez led West Texas A&M’s rushing with 147 yards on 23 carries and scored three touchdowns. Their passing offense totaled 274 yards but no touchdowns and one interception occurred during the contest. West Texas A&M was successful on all four red zone attempts but allowed their opponent several lengthy scoring drives.
The Mustangs’ next home game is scheduled for tonight at Ben Altamirano Field at 6:00 PM as part of First Responders Night.
