In a stunning upset, New Mexico beat No. 19 Washington State 38-35 on Saturday, securing their first victory over a ranked team since 2003. Devon Dampier led the Lobos to victory with 192 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and a passing touchdown. Eli Sanders contributed 108 rushing yards and a touchdown. Dampier’s 1-yard run with 21 seconds left sealed the win for New Mexico, ending the Cougars’ hopes of making the College Football Playoffs.
Despite trailing 28-14 at halftime, New Mexico staged a comeback in the second half, tying the game on Dampier and Sander’s touchdowns. The Lobos took a 30-28 lead with a field goal late in the fourth quarter. Washington State briefly regained the lead with a touchdown, but New Mexico responded with the game-winning drive orchestrated by Dampier.
Washington State’s quarterback John Mateer put up an impressive performance with 375 yards and four touchdowns, connecting with Kyle Williams for three touchdowns. However, it was not enough to secure the win for the Cougars. With this loss, Washington State has dropped out of the College Football Playoffs race.
Next, Washington State will face Oregon State, while New Mexico will take on Hawaii. Despite the upset, New Mexico remains in contention for bowl eligibility under coach Bronco Mendenhall’s leadership. The result of this game will likely have implications on the polls, with the Cougars expected to fall in the rankings.
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