The University of New Mexico football team faced significant offensive challenges in their recent contest against Oklahoma, according to head coach Jason Eck. The game, marked by intense defensive pressure and hot conditions, tested the Lobos’ depth and experience, particularly on offense.

Eck highlighted the impact of safety Austin Brawley’s departure due to cramps during the game, suggesting it may have disrupted defensive communication. “It probably hurts you a little bit when you have two games where our starters played 20, 30 snaps and now you have a game like this, that’s a war,” Eck said, reflecting on the team’s heavy defensive workload in the first half compared to previous games. The heat and lengthy snaps contributed to the physical toll on players.

Offensively, UNM leaned heavily on quarterback Toa Fa’avae for the first time this season, with Fa’avae taking 42 snaps compared to fellow quarterback Luke Moga’s 17. Fa’avae completed 4 of 10 passes for 79 yards and managed 17 sack-adjusted rushing yards on 13 attempts, including a notable 22-yard run that converted a crucial third-and-21 late in the game. Moga completed 4 of 8 passes for 37 yards.

Eck refrained from making immediate conclusions about the quarterbacks’ performances, emphasizing the need to review game tape. He noted that both signal-callers faced a formidable pass rush and struggled at times to find open receivers, despite favorable matchups. “We gotta keep having simple reads for them,” Eck said, stressing the importance of providing quarterbacks with plays that align with their strengths and experience.

Freshman wide receiver Bailen George emerged as a focal point of UNC’s passing attack, leading the team with 15 targets through three games. After the Oklahoma game, Eck noted that George’s usage could have been increased, highlighting the receiver’s “elite quickness” and success in beating coverage, particularly against Oklahoma safety Reggie Powers III. “He’s gonna be a really good player for us,” Eck said.

The Lobos’ offensive line featured a combination of starters and key contributors. Left tackle Danzel Newell, left guard Malik Aliane, center Kaden Robnett, right guard Jaymar Tasi, and right tackle Tyler Lawrence started the game, with Cole Millward seeing significant playing time at left tackle and occasionally at right guard. Eck praised the group, stating that these six linemen have solidified themselves as the team’s top options on the line.

Despite the offensive struggles against a strong Oklahoma defense, Eck expressed confidence in the team’s potential. “I’m not going to get too out of whack that we were hopeless on offense,” he said. Eck characterized Oklahoma as the “best defense we’re gonna see,” while noting that the Lobos blend of veteran and young players on offense indicates room for growth and improvement moving forward.