Lobos overcome shaky performance in 21-10 win at Hawaii

The University of New Mexico football team (UNM) secured a thrilling 21-10 victory over Hawaii, taking the lead in the Mountain West Conference. This win came after a shaky performance throughout the game, marked by multiple turnovers, penalties, and struggles on offense. The Lobos coach, Jason Eck, acknowledged the team's need to perform well despite not playing their best, stating, "Sometimes you gotta win games when you don’t play your absolute best."

Trailing 10-7 with 14 minutes remaining in the third quarter, UNM turned things around with a trick play that set up a touchdown on their first drive of the period. Quarterback Toa Fa'avae connected with receiver Bailen George for a crucial score, extending the lead to 10-7. As the team pushed further in the fourth quarter, a forced fumble at the goal line sparked an 80-yard touchdown drive, culminating in an 80-yard touchdown run by Toa Fa'avae with 6:57 left on the clock.

Despite facing adversity, UNM's defense held strong, limiting Hawaii to 298 total yards and just 48 on the ground. The Lobos came into the game as 15-point favorites, but they showed resilience, especially considering the absence of their third-string quarterback, James Laubstein, who was injured during the game. Coach Eck praised Laubstein's determination, describing him as a "warrior" who encouraged his teammates and motivated them to succeed.