New Mexico’s defense delivers in 21-16 win over North Dakota State
Special to the Times | Lee Begaye
The New Mexico Lobos leads the nation in scoring defense at 11.29 points per game. The Lobos added to that statistic on Saturday night with a 21-16 win over North Dakota State.
By Lee Begaye
Special to the Times
ALBUQUERQUE
New Mexico’s defense delivered when it mattered most Saturday night, limiting North Dakota State to a season-low 53 rushing yards and returning an interception for a touchdown in a 21-16 homecoming victory before 34,794 fans at University Stadium.
The Lobos (6-1, 3-0 Mountain West) remained undefeated in conference play, matching their best seven-game start since 1997 while handing the Bison (6-2, 3-2) their second loss this year.
New Mexico’s defensive performance further strengthened its standing among the nation’s best. According to NCAA statistics updated Tuesday, the Lobos lead the FBS in scoring defense, allowing just 11.29 points per game through seven contests.
North Dakota State joined the Mountain West Conference this season after a dominant run at the Football Championship Subdivision level, winning 10 national championships since 2011. Against New Mexico, however, the Bison struggled to establish their rushing attack and relied heavily on quarterback Nathan Hayes, who completed 17 of 33 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns but threw two interceptions.
To read the full article, please see the Oct. 29, 2026, edition of the Navajo Times.
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