The Western New Mexico Mustangs football team is set to face Central Washington University in a Lone Star Conference matchup tonight at Ben Altamirano Stadium. The Mustangs, currently holding a 1-3 overall record and 0-2 in conference play, are looking to end their losing streak as they meet the Wildcats for the seventh time since 2003.
Tonight’s game is also Grant County Youth Sports Night, with free entry offered to children wearing their Grant County sports jerseys.
Western New Mexico’s offense has been led by quarterback Connor Ackerley, who leads NCAA Division II with 1,382 passing yards and has thrown 16 touchdowns against just two interceptions through four games. His primary target has been Deuce Zimmerman, who has accumulated 439 receiving yards and six touchdowns this season. Additional contributors include Anthony Flores (265 yards, three touchdowns), Davey Morales (203 yards, two touchdowns), and Jacob Helt (65 yards, two touchdowns in three games).
Central Washington enters the contest with a 2-1 record overall and a 1-0 mark in conference play. Quarterback Kennedy McGill has thrown for 483 yards and seven touchdowns while rushing for an additional 236 yards. The Wildcats average 274 rushing yards per game, with Justice Taylor and Beau Phillips combining for nearly 300 rushing yards between them so far this season. Wide receiver Mason Juergens stands out with an average of 51 yards per catch after recording a total of 153 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
Defensively, Central Washington has allowed an average of just over 20 points per game and recorded nine sacks along with five interceptions in three games. Western New Mexico will look to defensive players such as Clayton Zenter—who has one interception and one fumble recovery—and Diego Diaz, who leads the team with twenty tackles and a forced fumble.
The matchup features contrasting styles: Western New Mexico relies on its high-tempo passing attack while Central Washington emphasizes a run-heavy approach designed to control possession.
Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday at 6:00 p.m., as the Mustangs aim for their first Lone Star Conference win of the season and their first-ever victory against Central Washington University.
For more information about Mustang Athletics or to purchase tickets, visit www.wnmumustangs.com or wnmu.edu.
