New Mexico Football Loss Ends Lobos’ Winning Streak 35-28

New Mexico football loss ends Lobos’ 3-game streak as they fall 35-28 at San Jose State. Keagan Johnson posts career-high 145 receiving yards.

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The University of New Mexico Lobos saw their three-game winning streak come to a close Friday night, falling 35-28 to San Jose State in a hard-fought Mountain West opener. Despite a late fourth-quarter rally, UNM could not overcome the early deficit.

Keagan Johnson Shines with Career-High Performance

Receiver Keagan Johnson had a standout game, hauling in 11 receptions for 145 yards, tying for the 11th-most catches in a single game in UNM history. Johnson consistently provided quarterback Jack Layne with a reliable target, converting key third downs and keeping the Lobos within reach. After four games this season, Johnson has accumulated 26 receptions for 326 yards, establishing himself as a top receiving threat in the Mountain West.

Lobos Fall Behind Early

San Jose State struck fast, building a 14-0 lead in the second quarter with touchdowns on their first three drives. New Mexico responded with touchdowns from Damon Bankston (four-yard run) and Scottre Humphrey (one-yard rush), narrowing the score to 21-14. A 25-yard field goal by Luke Drzewiecki at the half brought the Lobos to 21-17, keeping the game competitive.

Third Quarter Penalties Stall Momentum

The third quarter proved costly for UNM. Two critical third-down conversions were nullified by penalties, including a holding call and a negated 21-yard catch by Shawn Miller, forcing the Lobos to punt. San Jose State capitalized with two more touchdowns, extending their lead to 35-17.

Fourth Quarter Comeback Falls Short

New Mexico mounted a strong fourth-quarter push. Layne scored on a three-yard rush and connected with Miller on a two-point conversion, reducing the deficit to 35-25. Later, Drzewiecki added a 31-yard field goal, bringing the score to 35-28 with just 3:41 remaining. However, San Jose State controlled the clock with three first downs to secure the victory.

Strong Offensive Showing Despite Loss

The Lobos finished with 420 total yards, including a career-high 344 passing yards by Layne on 28-of-40 completions. UNM outgained the Spartans in first downs (29-24) and demonstrated a balanced attack with three rushing touchdowns. Frankie Edwards III led the defense with seven tackles, keeping the game competitive.

Looking Ahead

The loss marks New Mexico’s first Mountain West defeat of the season. The Lobos now turn their attention to another road challenge against Boise State, the preseason favorite, with kickoff set for 7:45 p.m. MT on FS1 next weekend.