New Mexico tops New Mexico State 42-18 in Rio Grande Rivalry

Marcus Bell · 2026-09-27T00:20:16.548Z

New Mexico's third quarter surge was exactly what they needed to pull away in this rivalry matchup.

New Mexico tops New Mexico State 42-18 in Rio Grande Rivalry — © IJR

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New Mexico beat New Mexico State 42-18 on Sept. 26, 2026, in the 116th Rio Grande Rivalry at Aggie Memorial Stadium in Las Cruces. The Lobos led 14-3 at halftime, then scored 21 third-quarter points to reach 35-3, turning takeaways into touchdowns. New Mexico moved to 3-1 with its third straight series win; New Mexico State fell to 1-3. Coach Jason Eck said of the trophy, "When you bring it down on the bus, the goal is to bring it back on the bus." Sources disagree on key totals. Rushing yards for New Mexico are given as 251 by the Albuquerque Journal, 253 by the AP, and 256 in the box score; Scottre Humphrey's rushing total is 104 per KVIA or 98 per the AP; Toa Fa'avae's passing yards are 174 per the AP or 177 per the box score. James Laubstein rushed for two touchdowns. Jalen McIver forced a fumble from Trey Hedden that Elijah Brody recovered, setting up a Laubstein score. Austin Brawley and Tavian Combs each had an interception. NM State scored both its touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Troy Omeire left in the second quarter with an injury. New Mexico next hosts UTEP.