Lobo Nation turned out in force on Saturday, September 5, as University Stadium in Albuquerque hosted the University of New Mexico Lobos for their 2026‑27 home opener against the Central Michigan Chippewas. 24,126 spectators filled the stands, marking the largest season‑opening crowd at the venue since 2014.
Historic Opening Night
The Lobos entered the game with momentum, having won seven straight home games after a perfect 6‑0 home record in 2025. For the first time since 2004, the team earned preseason votes in both the AP Poll and the AFCA Coaches Poll, receiving four points in each.
Dominant Performance
New Mexico jumped out to an early lead when senior running back Scottre Humphrey scored on a seven‑yard rush at the 7:18 mark of the first quarter. Humphrey finished with 64 rushing yards and a touchdown, while the Lobes amassed 205 rushing yards on 44 carries, controlling the ball for 37 minutes, 29 seconds.
The defense held Central Michigan scoreless for the first three quarters, allowing the Lobos to build a 38‑0 lead. The Chippewas finally got on the board with 4:23 left in the fourth quarter, but UNM’s red‑zone efficiency was perfect, converting four of four opportunities for 29 points.
Quarterback Shuffle After Injury
Following a season‑ending elbow surgery for starting quarterback senior Jack Layne, head coach Jason Eck announced a quarterback rotation. Sophomore Toa Fa’avae and junior Luke Moga combined for 159 passing yards and one touchdown on 17 of 25 attempts, while senior James Laubstein contributed two rushing touchdowns.
Fan Experience
Fans proudly displayed the team’s cherry and silver colors. Among the crowd were visitors from abroad, including Amy and Ben Miller from London, England, who thought they were attending a soccer match. “I thought it would be much smaller,” said Ben Miller. “Is this college?” added Amy Miller, noting the game felt larger than many Premier League matches.
Looking Ahead
The Lobos will host the Mercyhurst Lakers (0‑2) on Saturday, September 12, with kickoff set for 2 p.m. Mountain Time.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
