In an exhilarating homecoming night game at Jackson Field, the Sul Ross State Lobos celebrated a significant milestone by clinching their first Lone Star Conference victory and overcoming a Division II opponent, the Western New Mexico Mustangs, with a final score of 34-20. This victory also marked their first win over the Mustangs since 1987, ending a long-standing series of defeats.
The game commenced with the Lobos attempting an audacious fake field goal pass that unfortunately went incomplete. Western New Mexico capitalized on this with a 61-yard drive culminating in a 23-yard field goal by Zach Gordon. The Mustangs continued their early dominance with a touchdown shortly afterward, leaving Sul Ross State trailing.
However, the Lobos’ fortunes began to change late in the first half. Jordan Morales ignited the comeback with a five-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap before halftime. The momentum firmly shifted in the third quarter when Andrew Martinez connected with Vicente Luevano for a historic four-yard touchdown, marking Luevano’s record-setting moment as the all-time leader in receiving touchdowns for Sul Ross State.
Martinez continued to shine, combining both his arm and legs to extend the Lobos’ lead with a 27-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. Quincy Blair’s defensive prowess was on full display as he returned an interception for a 70-yard touchdown, effectively sealing the game for the Lobos despite a late score from Western New Mexico.
Post-game, Head Coach Barry Derickson praised his team’s resilience and highlighted the defensive unit’s crucial role in maintaining competitiveness during the early struggles. “Our defense kept us in the game, and I’m so happy for them; they finally turned up and showed out,” Derickson expressed.
Record-breaking receiver Vicente Luevano shared his relief and joy after the game, emphasizing the collective effort and the significance of this win for the program’s morale. “It feels like the weight of the world is off my shoulders,” said Luevano, who also set the single-season high for receiving touchdowns.
Looking ahead, the Lobos are set to face Angelo State on October 26, with Coach Derickson eyeing the upcoming game against his alma mater with a blend of personal and professional determination.
With this homecoming victory, the Sul Ross State Lobos have not only captured the golden tumbleweed trophy but have also sparked a newfound confidence within the team, setting the stage for potentially more wins in the challenging Lone Star Conference.
