Notes, quotes and stats from Saturday’s game

By the Editorial Team · Monday, September 21, 2026

The University of New Mexico Lobos were defeated 14-6 by the Oklahoma Sooners in a tightly contested game dominated by strong defensive plays. The loss underscored New Mexico’s struggles to execute key offensive opportunities late in the game, preventing them from overcoming Oklahoma’s lead and ending the Sooners’ ranked status.

NORMAN, Okla. — The University of New Mexico Lobos fell to the Oklahoma Sooners 14-6 on Saturday in a defensive battle at Oklahoma’s Memorial Stadium. The loss dropped the Sooners out of the rankings, while the Lobos struggled to capitalize on several key opportunities in the second half.

Late in the game, the Lobos faced a crucial fourth-and-2 from Oklahoma’s 17-yard line with just under three minutes remaining. New Mexico quarterback Toa Fa’avae handed the ball off to running back Scottre Humphrey, who was stopped behind the line of scrimmage by Sooner defensive tackle David Stone. After the unsuccessful run, Oklahoma took possession and maintained control until the final whistle, sealing the victory.

New Mexico head coach Jason Eck explained the rationale behind the play call. He described the situation as a run-pass option designed to test the Sooners’ defensive alignment, hoping to create a one-on-one passing opportunity for receiver Troy Omeire. However, the Sooners effectively defended the play and shut down the Lobos’ attack at the point of contact.

Eck acknowledged that the Lobos had previously run a pass play involving quarterback James Laubstein that might have been better suited for the late-game scenario, given the expectation that the opposing safeties would be positioned low. However, he did not criticize the decision to use the run-pass option on fourth down, emphasizing the intent to be aggressive following a sudden change of possession.

"We had a play that was a pass with (quarterback James Laubstein)," Eck said. "And we ran it earlier on a first-and-10. That would’ve been a perfect call for right there on fourth-and-2 because you know the safeties are gonna be low."

Eck also referenced an earlier reverse screen trick play called after a turnover that he hoped would shift momentum. Although the play failed, he credited the Sooners’ defense for their preparation and execution.

Another pivotal moment came midway through the third quarter when Oklahoma receiver Isaiah SategnaIII caught a 53-yard touchdown pass, giving the Sooners the lead they would maintain for the remainder of the game. Eck described the breakdown as a coverage error, explaining that the Lobos defenders "didn’t get it spun the right way" and allowed SategnaIII to get behind them.

Despite New Mexico’s efforts, the Lobos were unable to generate enough offensive momentum to close the deficit. The Sooners’ defense held firm, and New Mexico’s offense was limited to one touchdown in the game. The loss highlighted the challenges the Lobos continue to face in converting critical plays under pressure.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.