Our Web story will be posted shortly at Lobo Zone.

This certainly wasn't a pretty outing for the Lobos. Their defense controlled Air Force much of the game, but there is only so much you can do when the offense keeps shooting itself in the foot.

After the game, UNM football coach Rocky Long called senior quarterback Chris Nelson's performance average. That might be a little generous.

The Lobos were stewing after the loss, which is a good sign. A team should expect to win and be furious when its mistakes lead to a loss. The team should be pretty fired up for the Wyoming game, although it's quite possible the Cowboys have had an even more frustrating run. They lost 40-34 to Syracuse in overtime today, falling to 1-4 despite some really close games.

Before I hit the road for Albuquerque, I'll hit you with a few questions.

What do the Lobos need to do to get back on track?
Do you want to see a little more of Donovan Porterie?
Do fans just need to be patient?

Post your thoughts in the comments section and check back for an update Sunday afternoon.

Posted by ilimon at 04:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Chris Nelson's pass intended for Rodney Ferguson was short again and broken up by Air Force. Nelson's next pass to Matt Quillen was complete for seven yards. The next pass was complete to Travis Brown, who gained two yards on the play to bring up fourth and one.

I'm heading down at the five-minute mark to interview the Lobos after the game. Check back soon for a post-game story. The Linz also promises to file his own report on his blog.

Posted by ilimon at 02:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Scott Peeples carried for no gain, bringing up second-and-10 at the Air Force 12. Peeples carried again for no gain, bringing up third down. The Falcons gained eight on the next play and punted on fourth down.

Thomas Wilson caught it and returned the punt 12 yards to the UNM 49.

Posted by ilimon at 02:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson carried for seven yards for a first down. Chris Nelson threw across the middle to Marcus Smith, but it was broken up by Air Force. Nelson's next pass to Travis Brown was nearly intercepted and incomplete, bringing up third-and-10. Nelson passed to Ferguson, who gave a good effort to gain seven on the play.

Jordan Scott punted for the Lobos, and it bounced to 12-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 02:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Air Force earned a touchback this time around and the Lobos start at their 20.

At this point, New Mexico needs to at least put together a good drive on offense to walk away with something good from this game. It seems like a longshot that the Lobos will come back from a 24-7 deficit.

Marcus Smith carried on the first play for a gain of seven. Rodney Ferguson carried for two yards to the 29, bringing up third and one. Air Force called a timeout with 10:26 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 02:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos were charged with holding on the first play of Air Force's drive, setting up first and goal at the nine yard line. Ryan Williams carried the ball to the UNM two-yard line. The Falcons went to Williams again, who leaped into the endzone for a two-yard touchdown.

Air Force hit the extra point, pushing Air Force up 24-7 with 11:59 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 02:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The kickoff was fumbled by Glover Quin and recovered by the Falcons at UNM's 20. It was a huge turnover that hurts the chances of a UNM comeback.

Posted by ilimon at 02:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ryan Williams carried for a gain of one yard. Williams carried again for a gain of four to the UNM 28. DeAndre Wright stopped the option toss for a loss of three, setting up a 48-yard field goal attempt by Zach Sasser. It was a career-long kick for Sasser. The kick was good and the Falcons jump ahead 17-7 with 12:53 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 02:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ryan Williams ran for three yards to start the Air Force drive. Shaun Carney kept the ball on the next play, for a four-yard gain to bring up third-and-three at the Air Force 47. Chad Hall took the option pitch and cut back for a five-yard gain and first down.

Williams carried for two yards on the next play. Williams carried again for a seven-yard gain, bringing up third-and-one at the UNM 39. Williams ran up the middle for a six-yard gain to the 33-yard line.

It's the end of the third quarter, and Air Force leads 14-7.

Posted by ilimon at 02:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson completed a pass to Marcus Smith for a six-yard gain. Nelson faked a handoff to Rodney Ferguson, then gave it to Travis Brown for a seven-yard run and first down at the 50-yard line.

Nelson threw outside of Smith, who already was hugging the left sideline on the next play. Smith carried on the next play for nine yards, to bring up third and one at the Air Force 41. Matt Quillen carried on the next play, but the Lobos were stopped for no gain. The chain gang measured, but it was still short.

The Lobos decided to go for it on fourth and one at the Air Force 41. Nelson kept the ball and appeared to get the first down with the push from his backfield. The chain gang came out and ruled it was just short of the first down and Air Force takes over on downs.

Then the officials reviewed the play, but it doesn't appear there was enough evidence to overturn the officials' spot of the ball. The spot after third down seemed generous and the spot after fourth down seemed pretty bad.

After video review, officials ruled the call stands.

Posted by ilimon at 01:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ryan Willaims ran for a one-yard gain, then Shaun Carney carried for a loss of four. The Lobos definitely are sniffing out the run much better this time around. Williams carried again for a gain of four. The Falcons are punting deep in their territory.

Thomas Wilson caught the ball after a bounce and held onto it when he was hit quickly. The Lobos will start at the 37-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 01:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson completed a pass under pressure to John Mulchrone, finally getting rid of the ball to avoid a sack and making a big play. Nelson moved the ball to the 30, then gain another eight yards on a pass to Mulchrone. Rodney Ferguson jumped over some Falcons to gain three yards and a first down at the UNM 41.

Paul Baker was stopped on the next carry for no gain. Baker carried again, this time earning three yards to bring up third-and-seven for the Lobos at the UNM 43.

Nelson's pass was complete to Travis Brown, who gained five but ended up two yards short of what could have been a big first down.

Jordan Scott punted into the endzone for a touchback.

Posted by ilimon at 01:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ryan Williams gained four yards on the opening play for Air Force. Then he carried again for 11 yards and a first down. Williams got the ball again and picked up another nine yards. Williams took the ball again for an 11-yard run. Williams ran again, but this time Herbert Felder stopped after a gain of two yards to bring up second and eight at the UNM 47.

Shaun Carney kept the ball on the next play for a gain of six. Williams carried again and was tackled by Billy Brittain. The chain gang measured the drive, then awarded Air Force a two-yard gain and first down.

Carney handed off to Chad Hall, who attempted a halfback pass to Victor Thompson, but Blake Ligon picked it off at the eight-yard line. Ligon got burned earlier but came up huge this time to stop the Falcons really efficient drive.

Posted by ilimon at 01:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd earned a touchback on the kickoff to open the third quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Linz is out trying to catch the game at an Albuquerque sports bar and I can't seem to reach Richard Stevens.

Something tells me they're both getting into a lot of trouble. The Linz promised he would update his blog after the game, so we'll see what kind of story he has to spin later.

Since Stevens has no halftime insight, I'll add mine. The Lobos are doing well on defense. Obviously they have to cut down on turnovers on offense. But it's also time for Chris Nelson to step up. The offensive line has been giving him time, but he has been holding onto the ball for too long and earned those sacks by himself. He has shown he can connect on passes, but he's been too erratic to help New Mexico. If the Lobos are going to win, he has to have a better second half.

Posted by ilimon at 01:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Air Force punted for a touchback with 58 seconds left.

Chris Nelson passed for eight yards to Travis Brown. Nelson stayed in the pocket and was sacked by Julian Madrid to end the first half.

Air Force leads 14-7.

Posted by ilimon at 01:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Stephen Hutchinson flew at Shaun Carney and sacked him for a 10-yard loss. The play brought up fourth down and 14 at the 50-yard line. UNM called timeout with 1:05 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 01:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Shaun Carney's pass intended for Victor Thompson was incomplete and nearly intercepted. It brought up third-and-eight for the Falcons at their 48. Chad Hall carried on the next play for 11 yards before he was stopped by Major Mosley.

Hall carried again for one yard to the UNM 45-yard line. Carney carried for five yards, bringing up third down and four at the UNM 40. The Falcons called timeout to preserve the drive with 1:12 left in the half.

Posted by ilimon at 01:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Air Force used a pair of run plays to earn nine yards. Scott Peeples then carried for a gainof five and the first down. Shaun Carney carried on the next play and Lobo George Carter dropped him for a loss of one yard. Carney carried again and rushed for six yards, bringing up third and five at the Air Force 35.

Peeples carried it straight up the middle for a six-yard gain and first down. Peeples carried for two-yard gain to the 43. It brought up second-down-eight at the Air Force 48.

The Falcons called timeout with 1:40 left in the half.

Posted by ilimon at 01:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Facing third-and-two, Nelson threw over Travis Brown's head to end the drive. Jordan Scott punted again, and Air Force took a fair catch at the Falcons' 11-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 01:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson overthrew Travis Brown, who was streaking across the field and would have scored if he had been in a position to catch the ball around the 10-yard line. Rodney Ferguson carried on the next play for a gain of eight yards. It brought up third-and-two at the 48. UNM called timeout with 5:13 left in the second quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 01:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kicked the ball way out of the endzone for a touchback.

Air Force quarterback Shaun Carney carried for six yards to the 26-yard line. Carney passed to Mark Root for a gain of two. Carney sold the option and carried for five yards and a first down. Carney was under pressure and rolled way out of the pocket, but he completed a 14-yard pass to Chad Hall, pushing ahead to the Air Force 47. Ryan Williams ran for seven-yard gain on the next play to the New Mexico 46. Carney carried for five yards and a firsst down.

Victor Thompson carried next for the Falcons for a nine-yard gain. Williams carried for three yards and another first down.

Williams carried again, but there was a flag on the play. Zach Arnett was charged with jumping offsides, pushing the ball to the UNM 25. Carney carried for what appeared to be a five-yard gain but there was another flag on the play. This time Air Force was charged with holding and was pushed back 10 yards.

Carney was about to do an option pitch, but Arnett dropped him for no gain to bring up second-and-14 at the UNM 34. Carney attempted a pass to Thompson, but it was brokenup by Glover Quin to bring up third-and-14. Carney tried to sell another pitch and carry, but Herbert Felder sniffed it out and dropped him for a loss of two. Air Force appeared too be ready to go for it on fourth-and-16, but then the Falcons took a delay-of-game penalty and a five-yard loss.

It appeared to be a touchback the officials downed it near the goal line. Then there was a flag on the play and officials moved it over to the 20-yard line for a touchback. It appeared Air Force was guilty of a personal foul, so the Lobos could start at their 35.

The officials then reviewed the play. upholding the touchback and penalty. The Lobos start at their 35.

Posted by ilimon at 12:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Glover Quin returned the kickoff 17 yards to the UNM 27 yard-line.

Chris Nelson handed off to Rodney Ferguson, who was dropped for no gain. Nelson stepped back and completed a 12-yard pass to Travis Brown. Ferguson carried on the next play for a gain of three yards. Nelson was in trouble but got off a screen pass to Nelson for a 58-yard touchdown pass. It was an impressive run by Ferguson, who had to shake off several Air Force tackles to get to the endzone.

Kenny Byrd hit the extra point and the Lobos trail Air Force 14-7 with 12:36 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 12:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ryan Williams carried for a gain of five yards and a big first down at the New Mexico 38. Shaun Carney then pitched to Chad Hall, who ran it for a 38-yard touchdown. He cut back to dodge Blake Ligon on the run. The extra point was good and the Falcons took a 14-0 lead with 14:26 left in the second quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 12:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Quarterback Shaun Carney gained three yards on the first play, then Jacobe Kendrick ran for 25 yards on the next play and nearly broke free toward with an open path to the endzone.

Carney rushed on the next play for six yards, pushing into UNM territory and the Lobos' 44-yard-line. Ryan Williams carried on the next play for a one-yard gain to bring up third-and-three at the end of the first quarter.

The Lobos are fortunate to only be trailing 7-0 with so many fumbles on offense.

Posted by ilimon at 12:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos faked a handoff and Paul Baker ran up the middle for eight yards to open UNM's drive. Baker carried again, for a gain of one yard. The chain gang came out to make sure, but it was just short of the first down. Chris Nelson kept the ball on the next play and gained three yards for a first down at the UNM 39.

Nelson completed his next pass to John Mulchrone for a 20-yard gain. When Nelson doesn't hesitate, he can pull off these big gains. Baker ran around a few tackles on the next play and gained six yards. The Lobos handed off to Marcus Smith sweep style, but Air Force stopped it after a 1-yard gain to bring up third-and-three at the Air Force 33.

Nelson threw the world's worst option pass and Baker saved the Lobos by falling on the ball at the Air Force 48-yard line.

Jordan Scott was back on to punt. Air Force took a fair catch at its 23-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 12:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The UNM defense countered by sacking Shaun Carney. Herbert Felder was credited with dropping Carney for a loss of five. Carney then handed off to Chad Hall, who gained two yards on the play, bringing up third-and-13. Carney kept the ball on the next play and was tripped up by OJ Swift after a gain of seven. It brought up fourth-and-sixth at the Air Force 27.

The Falcons punted and Thomas Wilson was deep for the return. He took a fair catch at the UNM 27-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 12:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson and Rodney Ferguson had an awkward handoff, but Ferguson still managed to shake and bake for a gain of three on the play.

Nelson held onto the ball for a long time on the next play looking for a receiver and was sacked by Kevin Quinn for a loss of four yards. It brought up third-and-11. Nelson was sacked again on the next play Julian Madrid for a loss of two.

Jordan Scott punted for the Lobos, and Air Force took a fair catch at the 23-yard line. It was a 34-yard punt.

Posted by ilimon at 12:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Air Force earned a touchback on the kickoff and the Lobos started at their own 20.

Chris Nelson stepped back to pass and it was knocked down by Jake Paulson. He nearly got the interception but dropped the ball as he was falling down.

The Lobos went to Rodney Ferguson next, and ran for two yards to bring up third-and-eight. Nelson completed a 10-yard pass to Thomas Wilson to the UNM 32-yard line. Ferguson carried again for a gain of two yards.

Nelson completed his next pass to Travis Brown for a 12-yard gain and first down. The Falcons are stacking up against the run, but Nelson is doing well so far taking advantage of the passing options.

Play stopped at 10:07 because an Air Force player is down.

Posted by ilimon at 12:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Falcons pushed forward on running plays, bringing up second and third at the UNM eight. New Mexico was called for offsides, setting up first and goal at the four-yard line.

Falcon Brian Williams carried on the next play, but Michael Tuohy held him to a one-yard gain. Shaun Carney carried on the next play and picked up a three-yard touchdown with 12:18 left in the first quarter. The Falcons got the extra point and are now up 7-0 on the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 12:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright didn't get much on the return and the Lobos started at their own 13-yard line.

Rodney Ferguson carried on the first play for a gain of four yards. Ferguson carried again but fumbled.The play was forced by Air Force's Julian Madrid and it was recovered by Falcon Chris Sutton at the 15-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The jets flew over and seven airmen parachuted onto the field. One collided with a photographer the on sideline while landing, but it appears no one was hurt. It was just good for a laugh.

The Lobos will receive.

The current conditions are clear skies with the temperature at 71 degrees. Winds are coming from the Southeast at 10 miles per hour and the average humidity is 27 percent. At 2 p.m., the forecast calls for clear skies, a temperature of 79 degrees, Southeast winds at 12 miles per hour and average humidity of 25 percent.

Posted by ilimon at 11:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's a beautiful clear day here in Colorado Springs, Colo. There are some empty seats in Falcon Stadium, but there's a pretty big crowd still in the parking lot. The cadets, who Lobos hope to keep from doing celebration pushups after an Air Force score, are marching in as the pre-game festivities begin.

Stay tuned for full game coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 11:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tribune reporter Jeremy Fowler has an absolute must-read story in today's paper about Carissa McGee, a high school basketball player from Las Cruces who was charged with stabbing her mother and sister in March.

The Lobos were recruiting Carissa McGee, but they obviously stepped away as soon as she was arrested for the stabbing. It's sad to see a life filled with such potential derailed.

Posted by ilimon at 10:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

The UNLV student government passed a resolution demanding a public hearing with Cox Cable, CSTV and the students from UNLV, with the hope of getting the Mountain added to Cox's channel lineup.

The Mountain, a new regional network developed by CSTV to cover Mountain West Conference athletics, is not available in Nevada or any other Cox Cable market.

This must be an especially troubling week in Nevada. The big instate rivalry game between UNLV and Nevada will be broadcast on the Mountain, but no one within the state can see it on television because Cox doesn't carry the Mountain.

It would be a beneficial for the entire conference if the UNLV students are able to pressure Cox into reaching a deal with CSTV. Cox covers the San Diego and Las Vegas market, two major metro areas where conference games being broadcast by the Mountain are not on the air.

Posted by ilimon at 09:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Rodney Ferguson was back at practice Thursday after being dismissed early for kicking a teammate during Wednesday's workout. Coach Rocky Long said Ferguson will be disciplined in house.

UNM head trainer Dave Binder said he thinks Blake Ligon will be cleared to play Saturday at Air Force after fracturing his right forearm earlier this season. He said he doubted Martelius Epps would be cleared by Saturday's game, but he added he could be wrong. Mike Love practiced all week, so he should be able to play Saturday as long as he doesn't feel too much pain in his knee.

Today was the last day before the Lobos hit the road to face Air Force, so it was not a full-contact workout.

Speaking of the Falcons, I had a story in today's Trib with quarterback Shaun Carney and linebacker Drew Fowler discussing what was different for the Falcons' this year. You can find it here.

That's all for tonight. Check out Friday's Tribune for more Lobo football coverage and visit Lobo Zone Friday to listen to the Tribune's pre-game podcast.

We also are offering text message and e-mail scoreboard alerts for the first time this weekend. To sign up, go to http://www.abqtrib.com/alerts. If you sign up for the text message alerts, keep the window open and enter the confirmation code you receive on your cell phone. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Posted by ilimon at 07:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Cougars avenged last season's 51-50 overtime loss to No. 17 TCU, earning a 31-17 win in Fort Worth. The BYU victory snaps a 13-game TCU winning streak. Here's ESPN's post-game coverage of the game.

Posted by ilimon at 06:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

TCU was rallying in the third quarter, but BYU now holds a 24-10 lead at TCU with 8:31 left in the game. The Cougars just got a huge first down and seem to own the momentum. Will TCU lose its first Mountain West Conference game? Stay tuned.

Posted by ilimon at 06:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If you have some free time right now, check out the BYU-TCU game on Versus -- formerly the Outdoor Life Network. BYU is up 17-10 against No. 17 TCU near the end of the third quarter and it's shaping up to be a really good game. It's available on Comcast Channel 37. It should also be available on satellite, but I'm not sure what the station number is for Versus.

Posted by ilimon at 06:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM starting running back Rodney Ferguson was kicked out of practice 25 minutes early Wednesday after getting into a fight with teammates.

Ferguson and the starting offense was going up against the scout team. Both sides had been doing extra shoving all practice. Ferguson was on a running play to the left sideline when he exchanged words with a scout team member and shoved him. On the way back the line of scrimmage, the scout team player pushed Ferguson's helmet. Ferguson turned around and got into a shoving match with the scout team player. A few of the offensive starters, including offensive lineman Robert Turner, joined in the mix and shoved the scout team player to the ground.

Then Ferguson began kicking the scout team player. Wide receivers coach Dan Dodd was the first to notice Ferguson's actions and shouted at Ferguson to stop. "Rodney, you can fight him if you want to, but you absolutely cannot kick him," Dodd shouted. "That is completely unacceptable." The offensive coaches broke up the fight, then offensive coordinator Bob Toledo kicked Ferguson out of practice.

Fights sometimes break out during spirited workouts. Coach Rocky Long often complains they waste time, but players typically are not dimissed for getting into fights. Ferguson's decision to kick a teammate while wearing cleats got him an early trip to the locker room. If he had done the same thing during a game, he could have been ejected from the game and forced to sit out another game.

Long did not see the skermish because he was coaching the defense on a separate field. "I'll talk with the coaches, evaluate the situation and see what disciplinary action, if any, should be taken," he said.

The Lobos did not suffer any injuries during practice and the team worked through the rest of its practice without any incidents. This marked the final day of heavy contact before the Air Force game.

"I feel like we have a good understanding of what we need to do and had some good workouts this week," senior quarterback Chris Nelson said.

Mike Love practiced with the team again today despite his hyperextended knee and cartilage damage to the same knee. He is expected to travel with the team to Air Force. No news yet on Blake Ligon and Martelius Epps, who both won't know whether they have been cleared to play until they meet with team doctors Thursday.

In a separate blog entry about Brett Kennedy, I was asked for an injury update on Kennedy's La Cueva teammate Michael Muniz. Muniz also committed to the Lobos but hurt his knee in the Bears' loss to Mayfield. The Trib's ace high school sports reporter James Staley spoke with Muniz a few times and was told he has been through an MRI but early results indicate it was just a strain. Muniz will go back to the doctor Thursday to hear the doctor's final assessment after a more thorough reading of the MRI. NCAA rules preclude Long from talking about recruits, but he said as soon as an athlete commits the coaches promise to honor the scholarship regardless of any injuries that may occur before the athlete enrolls at UNM. I think it's a pretty safe agreement for UNM because Long typically redshirts freshmen, giving the athletes plenty of time to recover.

I had three stories in today's Tribune, which you can find at http://www.lobozone.com If you visit the Lobo Zone audio section on the right-hand side, you can also listen to my audio interview with linebacker Herbert Felder.

That's all for now. Check out Thursday's Tribune for more UNM football news. And check my blog early Thursday night for an update on any potential fallout over Ferguson's kick.

Posted by ilimon at 06:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Due to some technical difficulties, I'm posting my practice report a little later than usual. But I figure better late than never.

First the daily injury roundup. No one new was hurt at practice. Cody Kase, who saw really limited action against UTEP as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury, said he is feeling better. He said he feels like all the extra work with trainers is getting him back on track and he hopes to be at full strength against Air Force.

Mike Love, who has a hyperextended knee and torn caritilage, practiced today. The coaches still hope they don't have to use him against Air Force. Martelius Epps practiced but did not go through any contact drills.

Blake Ligon also was in a blue jersey, meaning he isn't supposed to go through any heavy contact either, but he dished out some hits anyway. Team trainers said he is still on track to play at Air Force after recovering from a fractured right arm.

Chris Nelson made people a little nervous, ducking and running in practice. I'm not sure if he tripped or just couldn't stop before he collided with defenders, but he definitely ended up tangled up in a pile with defenders. He was no worse for the fall, but he had coaches and trainers running in his direction. He seemed amused.

Bryan Clampitt led the scout team through the option during most of practice, but coach Rocky Long said during the media luncheon it's a waste of time because there's now way the scout team can duplicate the most important part of the option -- it's speed. He did say it does help for players to learn assignments and understand where they're supposed to be. Of course, Long is all doom and gloom about the triple option, but he has beaten Air Force before. So it's not impossible.

The Lobos worked on handling roll blocking, also known a form of cut blocking. It's a very controversial style of blocking Air Force uses throughout the game. The Lobos worked on how to adjust to those blocks. Kase said how you respond all depends on your level of skill. If you can jump, then you jump around them. Or you could run around them. Or just step on the guy. "All that matters is that you find a way to get around them without getting hurt," he said.

That's all for now. I posted audio of coach Rocky Long answering questions during his weekly media lunch. He goes into some really great detail about what it's like trying to deal with Air Force's wishbone offense. It's far more than I could possibly include in the newspaper, so I think it's worth the time to download the audio and hear his explanation.

Check out Wednesday's Tribune for loads more Lobo football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 10:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Our audio editing area is in use right now, so I won't be able to post the audio of coach Rocky Long answering questions from print, radio and Internet reporters today at the media lunch until after football practice. He had some really interesting things to say about Air Force, so I think it's worth the wait.

The Mountain West Conference also had its weekly football coaches teleconference today, and I can tell you that those who were hoping for some last-minute satellite deal so that they could watch this weekend's game on DirecTV or DishNetwork are probably out of luck. Commissioner Craig Thompson had no new information on TV deals, which is especially hard on TCU, San Diego State and UNLV fans who can't follow their teams on local cable providers. And, as I mentioned, no progress on deals with the two big satellite providers.

I'm heading out to practice in a few minutes. I'll have more afterward, plus that media lunch audio I promised. While you're waiting, don't forget to take advantage of our Ask the Coach feature. You can use the form to pose questions to any of the UNM football coaches. You can find the submission form on the right-hand side of www.lobozone.com under the LoboZone Extra section.

Posted by ilimon at 02:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM women's basketball season tickets went on sale today, with tickets starting at $102 for adults and $221 for family plans that include two adult tickets and two children's tickets. Fans can purchase tickets at the UNM Ticket Office at the southeast corner of The Pit, by phone at 925-LOBO or online at this Web address.

New Mexico has a 17-game home schedule, including two exhibitions, a Nov.17 home opener against Texas, seven nonconference matchups and eight Mountain West Conference games.

UNM also announced a schedule change, moving tipoff for the Dec. 2 New Mexico State at The Pit from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. So the Lobos and Aggies are going prime time.

The Lobo Howl, the Lobos first official practice of the season open to the public, is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 13, from 6-9 p.m.

Posted by ilimon at 02:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

This time, it really did happen. Aleem Harris returned for his first practice with the UNM football team Monday night. Harris had been suspended indefinitely from the team after he was charged with several felonies in connection with a fight with his ex-girlfriend. Harris pleaded guilty to misdemeanors and coach Rocky Long placed him on probation before allowing him to return to the team.

"He is practicing with the team, but he has a few more things to do before he can play," Long said. The coach said one of the Harris needs to do is demonstrate he is in game shape and not just fit enough to do a lot of conditioning drills.

Harris is practicing at outside linebacker, a change from the Lobo position he played last year.

UNM head trainer Dave Binder said safety Blake Ligon ahs a good chance of playing this week at Air Force after fracturing his arm. Binder said running back Martelius Epps, who is coming back from a fractured hand is a long shot because he won't have pins removed from his hand until Thursday. Freshman Mike Love, who hyperextended his knee and has some torn cartilage in the same knee was able to practice Monday. Binder said his status depends on how much the knee flares up and what kind of pain Love can tolerate. Long said the Lobos will take Love to the Air Force game because the coaches aren't expecting to get Epps back for the game. "But we're sure hoping not to have to play him," Long said.

New Mexico did not suffer any major injuries in the UTEP game, while the Miners lost an ofensive lineman in the matchup. It makes UTEP especially vulnerable in its game against New Mexico State this week because the Miners already had lost two offensive linemen this year and their rookies opened the door to New Mexico racking up five sacks.

Junior Bryan Clampitt led the scout today because he has the most experience running the triple option, but he will split time with the scout team with transfer Thomas Littlejohn. Clampitt is the ideal person to lead the scout team since he has more experience simulating the triple option, but he will be needed at times to work out as the third string quarterback. Long siad Clampitt also has to be with the starting offense Thursday because he relays the signals from the sidelines on game day.

The atmosphere at Monday's practice was defintiely more upbeat than it has been all season. Winning cures all, and doing it soundly cuts down heavily on running for mistakes.

That's all for now. Check out Tuesday's Trib for more UNM football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 08:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm a Harris poll voter, and this was the first week I was asked to cast an official vote. The voting continues weekly through the end of the season. My picks will be posted every Monday on my blog and in the print edition of the Tribune.

The Harris poll is one of three factors used to determine Bowl Championship Series standings. The final regular season standings determine spots in the top bowl games. The poll is controversial because many people feel it is skewed heavily in favor teams from the big-name conferences. I happen to agree with that sentiment and thought long and hard before participating in the poll. In the end, I agreed with Trib editors that it is better to have a voice in a flawed system than just sit on the sidelines and complain.

Here are my picks for this week::

1. Ohio State
2. USC
3. Auburn
4. West Virginia
5. Florida
6. Michigan
7. Texas
8. Louisville
9. Georgia
10. LSU
11. Virginia Tech
12. Notre Dame
13. Oregon
14. Iowa
15. TCU
16. Tennessee
17. Oklahoma
18. Florida State
19. Clemson
20. California
21. Nebraska
22. Boise State
23. Georgia Tech
24. Rutgers
25. Missouri

I had a really hard time picking teams for the last three spots in the poll. It was very difficult to evaluate teams with multiple losses against strong opponents and compare them to undefeated teams with wins over muh weaker opposition.

Share your thoughts on my picks or the Harris poll itself in the comments section of the blog.

Posted by ilimon at 04:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

First of all, I have to correct an error in my post-game story. Aleem Harris was credited with one tackle on the UNM stat sheets, but he did not appear in the game. I should have verified it first, and I apologize for passing it on to our Web readers. Harris is still completing his probation, and coach Rocky Long said he would be meeting with Harris Monday to discuss his progress. Long would not provide any other details about Harris' progress.

Freshman running back Mike Love did not play against UTEP because of a knee injury. UNM trainers said they thought Love had suffered a hyperextended knee, but a further test showed he had some torn cartilage. If running back Martelius Epps can return this week after fracturing his right hand earlier in the year, Long said he expects Love to undergo surgery to repair the knee injury and apply for a medical redshirt this season. If Epps can't come back, then they probably won't send Love off for surgery because he can still play on the injured knee. Epps was in practice all last week, and I would think he will be be available to play against Air Force Saturday.

After drilling the offensive line for a few weeks, Long gave the unit credit for turning in a good performance against the Miners. He said the line only had one assignment error during the game and did a good job. Center Vince Natali said it helped that the starters played the entire game for the second week in a row and people seemed to have a better grasp of their responsibilities. Sophomore running back Rodney Ferguson, who had a career night with 162 yards on 34 carries, said the line gave him huge holes all night.

Long also praised both starting quarterback Chris Nelson and backup Donovan Porterie. He said Nelson showed a lot of improvement from last week. And he was happy with Porterie's effort on his only series of the game. "He didn't look nervous. Now those were tailored for him. Those are the plays he practiced all week, but he didn't look nervous. He looked relaxed and he looked in control and all that."

That's all for tonight.

Check back for more Lobo football coverage in Monday's Tribune. And visit Lobo Zone to hear the podcast Richard Stevens and I did breaking down the Lobos' performance against UTEP and previewing Air Force. Our show will be available at 6 a.m. Monday.

Posted by ilimon at 10:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

La Cueva standout Brett Kennedy said he orally committed to the University of New Mexico football team Saturday morning.

Kennedy, who is 6-3 and 260 pounds, said he thought the Lobos had a strong program, and he wanted to get the decision out of the way so that he could focus on his senior season with the Bears. Kennedy is expected to play somewhere on New Mexico's defensive line.

Check out Monday's Trib for more on Kennedy.

And check my blog again in about 15 minutes for my Sunday report, which also has a lot of Lobo football news.

Posted by ilimon at 09:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Well, it was a good night for the Lobos.

I posted a game story and photo, and the Linz was actually a little sweet in post-game blog entry. You have to read it to believe it.

I love the early kickoff. My dad is hanging out with me, watching some great football games. He's a UTEP alum and nursing his wounds, but he gives the Lobos credit for playing with more heart and fire than the Miners.

That's all for tonight, but check back Sunday afternoon for coach Rocky Long's take on the game after he' seen the tape and a little preview of Air Force.

Posted by ilimon at 08:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

It's Rodney Ferguson's day. He carried for a nine-yard play to open the drive. He's up to 132 yards on 26 carries. Ferguson pounded ahead for a first down.

The Lobos went back to the same well and Ferguson ran for another six yards.

New Mexico appears to be in control with a 26-13 lead and 5:56 remaining, so I'm heading down to the locker room for reaction.

Check Lobo Zone soon for a full game report with photos. The Linz will also offer his take on the game. You know, he's actually been biting his tongue, so get ready for him to unload.

Posted by ilimon at 05:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jordan Palmer opened the drive with a pass for a seven-yard gain. A flag was throw on Palmer's next play, an incomplete pass. It was holding on UTEP, pushing the Miners back to second and nine at the UTEP seven.

The ball was hiked to Lorne Sam, who carried for a five-yard gain. It brought up a huge third-and-four, with Palmer completing a pass to Marcus Thomas for a seven-yard gain. Palmer passed to Daniel Robinson for a 12-yard gain and the Miners are moving again with less than nine minutes left in the game.

Palmer was being chased and dumped the ball, but Brett Madsen was called for roughing the passer. It was a close call and seemed unfair to the Lobos since you never know if that was going to be a fake pass or not. Madsen hit him as Palmer threw the ball.

Palmer hit Johnnie Lee Higgins for three yards, bringing up second and seven at the UNM 49. The next pass was incomplete to force another huge third down at the eight minnute mark. Palmer's next pass was incomplete and ahead of his receiver.

UTEP is punting with 7:57 left, pretty much putting the Miners out of reach if they don't get a quick stop. And I mean real quick.

Posted by ilimon at 05:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Matt Quillen returned the ball eight yards to give the Lobos a first and 10 at their 29.

Rodney Ferguson ran for seven yards on the first play. UTEP just doesn't have an answer for Ferguson. Well sometimes the Miners do. He took a toss in the backfield and lost one yard on the play. Chris Nelson completed a pass to John Mulchrone, who gained six yards and worked to get a first down. It was a big play to gain field position and take more time off the clock.

Nelson wound up to pass on the next play but threw it way past Travis Brown down field. It's secnd and 10 for New Mexico on the Lobos' 41. Ferguson ran for three yards on the next play, bringing up another big third down.

Nelson threw behind Marcus Smith, dove for the catch for five yards but fell two short of the first down. The Lobos are punting, giving UTEP hope with 11:14 left in the game.

Jordan Scott's punt was downed by Ian Clark inside the 10-yard line, giving the Lobo D a little help.

Posted by ilimon at 05:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UTEP kicker Reagan Schneider hit a 49-yard attempt, and the Lobos now lead 26-13 with 14:55 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 05:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lorne Sam opened the UTEP drive with a 12-yard gain.

Here come the Miners. They looked fired up and the Lobos can't afford to let up.

Jordan Palmer completed a screen pass to Jason Williams for a four-yard gain. Palmer completed another pass to Chris Marrow for a first down. Then Palmer hit Daniel Robinson for a 21-yard gain. The Miners quickly jumped to first-and-10 at the UNM 12.

Palmer scrambled but was sacked by Kendall Briscoe and Brett Madsen for a one-yard loss. Then Palmer was sacked again by Madsen. Palmer fumbled and recovered his own drop on the play, ending with a loss of eight. It brought up third-and-19. Palmer was sacked by Major Mosley, and lost another 11 yards.

Reagan Schneider stepped up to attempt a 49-yard punt but the third quarter ended before his kick.

Posted by ilimon at 05:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Matt Quillen took a fair catch on the kickoff on the UNM 21-yard line.

Rodney Ferguson ran for five yards to open the drive. Ferguson was tripped in the backfield but fell forward for no gain on the play.

Chris Nelson forced another pass to Travis Brown and it was nearly intercepted by UTEP.

Jordan Scott punted, and Johnnie Lee Higgins returned it to the UTEP 44-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 05:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd earned a touchback, then Jordan Palmer passed for a 12-yard gain.

Marcus Thomas ran for three yards on the next play, bringing up second and seven at the UTEP 35. Palmer completed his next pass to Chris Marrow for 17-yards. It brought up first down at the UNM 48.

The UTEP offense is showing signs of life on a drive where it desperately needs to score a touchdown.

Smith carried for four yards. Palmer's next pass was complete to Jamar Hunt for five yards, bringing up third-and-one at the UNM 38.Palmer pulled off the quarterback sneak for his third first down of the game. He gained two yards, making it first and 10 at the 37.

Palmer's next pass was complete to Marrow for one yard. Palmer's next pass was complete to Jake Sears for a gain of four. It brought up third-and-five at the New Mexico 32. The crowd roared but Palmer hit Johnnie Lee Higgins for a seven-yard gain.

Palmer's next pass was complete to Daniel Robinson for a 32-yard touchdown. UTEP converted the extra point, and hte score is 26-10 with 5:32 left in third quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 04:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright returned the kickoff for 20 yards, bringing up first down at the UNM 31.

Rodney Ferguson carried on the first play, falling back for a one-yard loss. Ferguson took a lateral toss for 12 yards and a first down.

Chris Nelson aired it out and nealry completed a pass to Travis Brown.The officials called pass interference on the UTEP defender Josh Ferguson. The Lobos picked a first dwon at the UTEP 38.

Ferguson carried again for two yards. Ferguson ran againd and found more daylight for a 10-yard gain. Ferguson showed good balance on the next play, proving it's not just the holes the offensive line opened, and gain another 10 yards on the next play. He has 105 yards so far today.

UNM called timeout wiht first-and-10 at the UTEP 16. The Lobos still appear to be very much in control of this game.

Paul Baker took a toss in the backfield from Nelson and gained three yards, pushing it second and seven for the Lobos. Nelson then connected with Travis Brown for an eight-yard gain and first and goal at the UTEP 5.

Ferguson ran for three yards after stopping. He probably would have fared better without a long pause/fake. Ferguson ran to the 1-yard line and was marked just short of the touchdown, bringing up third down on the one.

Nelson kept the ball for a one yard touchdown run. It was the Lobos' first rushing touchdown of the year.

Kenny Byrd converted an extra point, to push the Lobos ahead 26-3.

Posted by ilimon at 04:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Linz / Richard Stevens is off taking out boosters and schmoozing with coaches from other sports, so I'll just give my halftime take.

Umm ... wow. I haven't seen the Lobos play this well or fight this hard in a very long time. I give New Mexico credit for a great half, but it must be noted UTEP is underachieving tremendously.

The Lobos have 11 first downs to the Miners four. Rodney Ferguson is having stellar game, with 67 yards on 13 carries and five yards receiving for one touchdown. New Mexico is up to 87 yards rushing and 77 yards passing, giving the Lobosa healthier total offense than they had all season.

UTEP has 24 rushing yards on 15 carries and 59 yards passing. The Miners also have two turnovers to one by the Lobos.

The Lobos have to come out strong in the second half, but they clearly in the driver's seat.

Posted by ilimon at 04:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nelson was sacked for a loss of four, after staying in the pocket way too long. The Lobos called another timeout.
A lot of us in the press box think they should just air it out and go long. Why not?
Nelson had some time, but he way overthrew Travis Brown.
Rodney Ferguson ran for 21 yards on the next play. Ferguson ran out the clock to end the half.
I think they should have gone long or let Kenny Byrd attempt a long kick.Looked like the clock ran out, but the Lobos got a timeout in time and will get one last play. Byrd is set for a 46-yard attempt with one second left, but the kick was no good and time finally ran out.

UNM leads 19-3 at the half.

Posted by ilimon at 04:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright is have a good return day and ran the ball 27 yards, bringing up first and 10 at the UNM 32.

Rodney Ferguson keeps finding daylight and ran for a gain of five yards on the first play of the drive. Nelson scrambled and got off a pass to John Mulchrone for a six-yard gain and first down. New Mexico called timeout with 39 seconds left in the half.

Posted by ilimon at 04:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mike Tuohy got away with what could have been a late hit, smacking Jordan Palmer as he threw the ball away.

Palmer then completed his next pass to Chris Marrow, gaining six yards on the play. Palmer's next pass was incomplete and knocked down by Tyson Ditmore. The Miners now face fourth-and-four at the 19. UTEP had to go for the field goal this tiem around.

Reagan Schneider's 36-yard attempt was good, making the score 19-3 UNM with 1:51 left in half.

Posted by ilimon at 04:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for three yards, then Chris Nelson passed to Marcus Smith for a 14-yard gain.

Then Nelson tried to throw the pass into traffic and was picked off by Bryant Tisdale. He returned it nine yards before Ferguson tackled him.

UTEP now hass a first-and-10 at the UNM 25 with three minutes left in the half.

Posted by ilimon at 04:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos fired up the crowd, but Jordan Palmer held for a quarterback sneak and gain of two yards. It's the Miners' first first down of the game with a litttle more than 10 minutes left in the half.

Palmer gained three yards on the next pass play. Marcus Thomas plowed ahead for six yards on a run to bring up another third and one, this time at the UTEP 41.

Palmer ran another quarterback sneak for two yards, but he does keep getting hit on those first downs.

Marcus Thomas carried for three yards on the next play. The Lobos are really playing scrappy football on defense. Palmer threw a lateral pass to Thomas, who ran for four yards on the next play. Palmer completed a pass to Johnnie Lee Higgins for an eight-yard gain.

Thomas carried on the next play, but he was dropped for no gain.

Palmer is coming to life, hitting Daniel Robinson for 23-yard pass. UTEP is in scoring territory, with first and 10 at the UNM 20.

The Miners ran on the next two plays for no gain. Then Palmer's pass was complete to Jamar Hunt for a five-yard gain, bringing up third and five. Palmer's pass to Robinson was complete. It was a really nice catch by Robinson, but brought up fourth and one at the 11.

Hunt carried on the play, but the Lobos' defense stopped UTEP and took over on downs.

That was a huge play for New Mexico and shut UTEP out of what should have been a touchdown or field goal drive.

Posted by ilimon at 03:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kicked the ball waaay out of the endzone again.

The Miners start near their own fans at their own 20 and desperately need a good drive to stay in the game.

Jordan Palmer's pass was complete to David Sutton for a gain of three. Palmer's next pass was complete to Chris Marrow for a gain of six.

UTEP called timeout on third-and-one. The Miners still haven't gotten a first down in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 03:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright returned the kick for a huge gain, and the Lobos started the next drive at the UTEP 18. Chris Nelson is back at quarterback and completed a pass for two yards. Then Paul Baker ran for a 10-yard gain. Rodney Ferguson carried on the next play for a one-yard gain to bring up second and goal on the five-yard line.

Nelson then threw to Marcus Smith in the endzone, but a flag was thrown for ineligible receiver down the field on the Lobos. It was a five-yard penalty to bring up second and goal at the 10. Good play by Nelson to wait under pressure, just a mistake by the Lobos.

His next pass, however, was ugly. It was intended for Marcus Smith and easily could have been picked off. It looked a little like a panicked throw. Nelson held onto the ball too log and was dropped for an eight-yard loss.

Kenny Byrd stepped up to attempt a 35-yard field goal. He hit it, pushing the Lobos up 19-0 with 12:14 left in the half.

Posted by ilimon at 03:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Palmer tried to get rid of the ball but was called for intentional grounding. As a result, Lobo Tyler Donaldson earned a safety on the play. It's now 16-0 Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 03:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UTEP was offsides on the first play, for a loss of half a yard. Then the Miners managed a two-yard gain on a run. It brought up second-and-eight. The Lobos' defense swarmed again as Marcus Thomas carried the ball for no gain.

It's the end of the first quarter and the Lobos are dominating 14-0. The Miners are slow starters this year and have not scored in the first quarter all season.

Posted by ilimon at 03:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Donovan Porterie handed off to Rodney Ferguson for a five-yard gain. Then Paul Baker took the next handoff for no gain. Porterie rolled out and completed a pass to Marcus Smith for a first down and 16-yard gain. It was a little dangerous to throw under a lot of pressure and into traffic but he did well.

Porterie's next pass looked smooth and was complete to Travis Brown. The Lobos gained 18 yards on the play.

The Lobos lost four yards on the next running play, then Porterie's next pass was tipped by UTEP's Alfonso Auelua. It brought up third and 14. Porterie was sacked at the UTEP 40-yard line by Miner Justin Watson.

Jordan Scott stepped up to punt and got a hand from Marcus Smith, who downed it at the UTEP one-yard line. They went from a dangerous situation with UTEP returners to perfect field position on defense.

Posted by ilimon at 03:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Donovan Porterie is in at quarterback to start the drive.

Posted by ilimon at 03:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kicked the ball out of the endzone, setting UTEP up to start at its 20.

Marcus Thomas ran for nine yards on the first play, setting up second-and-one for the Miners.

Lorne Sam threw the ball on a trick play, but it was incomplete in heavy Lobo traffic.

Thomas carried on the next play, but he was stopped by Michael Tuohy and Quincy Black. The Miners didn't get a first down and will punt again.

The Lobos took a fair catch and will start at their 30.

This has been a huge showing by the Lobo defense and really poor performance by the Miners, who are a much more competitve team.

Posted by ilimon at 03:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos went to Rodney Ferguson again, who ran for six yards on the opening play of the Lobo drive. Then Ferguson carried again for four yards and a first down.

Chris Nelson then attemped at a pass to Thomas Wilson, but it was incomplete and thrown behind Wilson. Ferguson carried on the next play for two yards. Nelson kept the ball and broke off a 27-yard run. He was going to settle for a first down, he did a spin move and got a nice gain without a hard hit. It was a smart play, but not necessarily especially athletic.

Nelson passed to Ferguson on a screen, but Ferguson was dropped for a five-yard loss. Then there was a flag on second down, with UTEP jumping offsides. The Lobos went back to second-and-10. The ball was fumbled on the snap, but Nelson recovered him own drop. It brought up third-and-10.

Nelson's next pass was to Marcus Smith was complete for a 18-yard touchdown.

Kenny Byrd converted the extra point, pushing UNM ahead 14-0.

Richard Stevens says it looks like the Miners didn't bother to show up.

Posted by ilimon at 03:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UTEP ran the ball on it's first play of the drive for a gain of three. Then Jordan Palmer passed to Marcus Thomas for a one-yard gain. The defense is really flying around again this game, and the crowd is fired up for both sides.

Palmer to Johnnie Lee Higgins was a bullet and incomplete, with Quincy Black getting a hand on the ball.

Now Thomas Wilson is back to receive a UTEP punt. It was a fair catch at the Lobo 43.

Posted by ilimon at 03:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kicked the ball out of the endzone for a touchback, but the Lobos were offsides and UNM had to kick it again from the 30-yard line.

Byrd still got it to the endzone, and Johnnie Lee Higgins ran it back for 16 yards. First-and-10 from the UTEP 16.

Posted by ilimon at 03:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos went three straight to Rodney Ferguson, getting big gains in the first two. They moved the ball to second-and-goal on the eight-yard line.

Quarterback Chris Nelson was chased out of the pocket and threw the ball away, which was better than a sack he might of picked up in the same situation last week. Nelson completed his next pass to Ferguson across the middle, good for a touchdown. It was a good catch for Ferguson because it was a bullet by Nelson. Kenny Byrd converted the extra point and the score is now 7-0 New Mexico with 12:31 remaining.

Posted by ilimon at 03:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UTEP's Johnny Lee Higgins returned the kick for 22 yards, bringing up first and 10 at the UTEP 25.

Jordan Palmer's first pass was incomplete. Palmer nearly completed his second pass to Higgins, but Higgins was bumped on coverage by OJ Swift. Palmer was sacked looking for a receiver, then UTEP llinemen just looked around. Herbert Felder sacked Palmer, and Major Mosley recovered it at the UTEP 21-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 03:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

And elected to defer.

Posted by ilimon at 03:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's a sea of orange and red, with the Lobo fans out-numbering the UTEP fans at kickoff. It's a good size crowd and there's definitely a lot of energy in the stadium. It's much better than the past two home games this season.

Posted by ilimon at 02:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I've got a few injury updates.

I talked with UNM trainer Dave Binder after Bob Toledo disclosed Mike Love hyperextended his knee. Binder said he thinks Mike Love hyperextended his knee, but he isn't 100 percent sure. The trainers already did an MRI and didn't find any ligament damage, but Love was going to get evvaluated by team doctors anyway just to be on the safe side.

If the pain isn't too much of a problem and he can run, Love will be allowed to play against UTEP. Binder said he looked a little better during Thursday's practice, and obviously the injury wasn't bad enough to keep him out of workouts. At the same time, Binder added Toledo has a better view and can tell when players are trying hide injuries. The treatment for a hyperextended knee, which really is a hamstring injury, involves a lot of stretching, massages and a lot of time in the training room.

Frankie Solomon suffered a thigh bruise during Thursday's practice and left early to get iced. He should be able to play Saturday, although he may be a little sore.

Kole McKamey returned to practice for the first time since his surgery. He was on crutches and his knee was much more heavily wrapped, so he moved a lot more slowly. His mom was with him and they watched the last half of practice together.

Ian Clark got a dose of a typical Lobo football birthday celebration. His teammates taped his loosely to a goal post while some teammates sang happy birthday. Robert Turner grabbed ice bucket from the opposite side of the field and brought it over in a golf cart. Then some teammates helped him dump the ice on Clark. Then Clark was free to pull off the tape, which he did pretty easily. He was laughing all the way to the locker room. I suppose this all could sound sinister, but it was a really nice moment of team bonding. Clark was never in any danger, and he was laughing most of the time. It's the kind of thing that promotes the team unity the Lobos could use right now.

Practiice seemed to go smoothly, with players only wearing shells and reviewing the game plan they have been working on all week. The offense ended practice by brushing up on the proper way to run time off the time clock and down a ball. They also worked on the hurry-up offense, which becomes all the more important with new NCAA clock rules. It's really hard to come back late in a game, and everyone on the field really has to pay attention to what type of play stops the clock and what doesn't. It's all routine stuff, but it's important for it to be automatic under pressure.

OK, that's all for tonight. Tomorrow we've got the print edition of Lobo Zone, our big game preview section with tons of stories. We'll also have a podcast, with Richard Stevens and I previewing the game and giving our impressions of the New Mexico-UTEP matchup.

Posted by ilimon at 07:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In what should be the first of many preseason Top 25 honors, the University of New Mexico women's basketball team was ranked No. 17 in Lindy's preseason poll. The only other Mountain West Conference team ranked in the Lindy's poll was BYU, which earned the No. 19 spot. UNM issued this release about the ranking.

I think the No. 17 ranking is fair. Where would you have ranked the Lobos?

Posted by ilimon at 06:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

I had a really interesting interview with Bob Toledo, which led to a story in today's paper about the offense.

He wanted to dispell some myths and defend his offensive scheme. He was very animated during the interview. He wasn't upset at me or anything, but he definitely was frustrated by the assumptions people have made about why the offense is performing poorly. He was careful to accept all blame but wanted to elaborate on what was behind all the mistakes.

I really wish I had heard this perspective sooner, but we work with what we get from head coach Rocky Long and the players. And when I asked Toledo if I could speak with him after games, he completely deferred to Rocky and said he felt more comfortable talking after practices but not really on Sundays when reporters and Rocky usually hash out what happened Saturday night. Toledo said it's Rocky's team, not his. Usually the system works well, but in this case Toledo was able to elaborate in much greater detail than anyone else. I'm not saying Rocky led us astray in any way, it's just we got more information from Toledo.

What do you think of Toledo's remarks? I think there were some pretty loaded comments there, so I'm curious if fans agree with him now that they've had a chance to read his take.

Posted by ilimon at 02:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

UPDATE: Here's the link to the Nikki Nelson story that ran in today's Tribune.

I got an assist from Richard Stevens tonight, who handled a story about Nikki Nelson orally commiting to the Lobos since I was buried in football stories.

Nelson, a five-foot-five point guard from the Spokane, Wash., area told the Tribune she made her decision Wednesday. She spent last weekend in Albuquerque on an official visit, attending a men's soccer game and the UNM football team's loss to Missouri. Apparently none of the women's basketball recruits have had an averse reaction to watching the football team lose.

Now the Lobos have commitments for all five scholarships available for the 2006-07 class -- Nelson; forwards Kelsey Ansley and Jessica Kielpinski; foward/wing Porche Torrance; and guard Amanda Best.

Check out Thursday's Tribune for the reasons Nelson said she chose the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 10:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)

First up, a little bit of injury news.

Offensive coordinator Bob Toledo said true freshman running back Mike Love hyerextended his knee during the Lobos' game against Missouri. "He's practicing, but he isn't running very well, so obviously Rodney (Ferguson) will get a lot of carries this week. We're even looking at Matt Quillen taking some snaps at tailback. We'll have to see what happens as the week goes on."

Running back Martelius Epps, who suffered a fractured right hand earlier in the season, rejoined practice for the first time wearing a blue jersey, which meant he could not get hit or do anything that involved heavy contact.

UNM head trainer Dave Binder said Epps should have the screws removed from his hand Thursday. Binder said Epps and safety Blake Ligon, who fractured his arm earlier this season, both are on pace to rejoin full contact practice next and could be cleared to play at Air Force.

The Lobos dealt with some heavy wind during practice, but it was probably beneficial for the team to get a taste of fall weather. The ball did sometimes get away from quarterbacks Chris Nelson and Donovan Porterie, but they also were able to complete a lot of passes. Toledo said he was happy with group's effort and the progress the group has made.

Down in El Paso, UTEP coach Mike Price hasn't been very happy with the Miners' practices, according to the El Paso Times..

And UTEP is expecting up to 5,000 fans to attend the game, according to another Times article. The number is consistent with what UNM coach Rocky Long said he expected earlier this week. He said he expected the UTEP game to be New Mexico's rowdiest home game of the season.

The Lobos' could use a shot in the arm when it comes to attendance, but they also need consistency throughout the season to help offset the first two poorly attended games. I wrote a story about the topic today, and I have an earlier blog entry asking Lobo fans why the attendance numbers have been so light. I'd love it if a lot of people could add their thoughts.

In addition to the attendance story, I have my weekly Wolf Tracks roundup on the Lobos and a notebook on Mountain West Conference news.

I also have an audio interview with junior punter Jordan Scott, which you can find in the Podcast section of Lobo Zone.

That's all for now. Check out Thursday's Tribune for more UNM football news.

Posted by ilimon at 07:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I wrote a story for today's Tribune that actually ran on the front page of the newspaper about the impact sagging attendance is having on the football program. If the trend continues, it could be a significant financial hit for UNM.

My questions for the fans, though, is why aren't more people attending the game?

In the story UNM Athletics Director Paul Krebs said he didn't think the new no re-entry policy was hurting attendance. Other folks I've talked don't think the policy is bad but they suspect the perception of it has chased a least a few thousand fans away.

So what do you think? Why are the Lobos having a hard time packing in University Stadium? Post your thoughts in the comments section.

Posted by ilimon at 02:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

There was tons of New Mexico-UTEP chatter today, with UNM coach Rocky Long's media lunch and lots of interviews lined up with UTEP players and coaches. If you want to listen to Long's interview with print, radio and Internet media, you can visit this link to the audio section of Lobo Zone. We post his interview every Tuesday afternoon.

First, a few ticket notes. UTEP fans bought more than 1,500 tickets so far and tickets sales sit around 25,000 for the game. This ahead of pace for the past few games. The Miners also are bringing their band, and the UTEP alumni association is hosting a tailgate catered by Rudy's BBQ. It all should make for a fun game day atmosphere.

UTEP coach Mike Price said he is looking forward to playing the Lobos, but he is grateful to have the bye week to prepare for the Lobos defense. "It's always a challenge to prepare for their defense because it is so unusual," he said. "We really needed the extra time to prepare. And we certainly can't afford to overlook them because they started off a little slow, but they're improved dramatically from game one to game three."

UTEP quarterback Jordan Palmer, younger brother of NFL quarterback Carson Palmer, said the Miners are excited about playing the Lobos and Aggies in back-to-back weeks. "It's our battle with the state of New Mexico for area bragging rights," Jordan Palmer said. "It means a lot to us. If we can fight for two wins, it would put us in a great position for conference play."

On the Lobo side, UNM coaches and players are looking for improvement and a win. The Lobos are riding a five-game home losing streak.

"It's embarrassing," sophomore running back Rodney Ferguson said. "UTEP's a good team, but we have to fight to end that streak."

The Lobos seemed to have a pretty good practice. The offense ran pretty smoothly with Chris Nelson and Donovan Porterie splitting the snaps. Third stringer Bryan Clampitt gets in on few series, but for the most part it's just the top two guys getting in as much work as possible.

The defense also continued implementing its adjustments for UTEP. With the quarterback shuffle, the Lobos have a transfer running the scout team. Thomas Littleton, a 6-1, 200-pound sophomore transfer from Drake, is running the offense against the first-team defense. He went to high school in Aurora, Colo.

The offensive line stayed late, with Devin Clark and Anthony Kilby lingering the longest to get extra instruction. Both players are working on techinque, speed and general blocking skills.

Thats all for now. Check out Wednesday's Tribune for lots more Lobo coverage. We'll also have an interview with punter Jordan Scott posted in the Lobo Zone audio section on Wednesday. Good night.

Posted by ilimon at 08:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Aleem Harris returned to practice Monday, but he is still on probation and has not officially returned to the team. I have a full story up on the Trib Web site.

UNM head trainer Dave Binder said Kole McKamey had surgery Monday afternoon to repair his injured knee. Binder said the procedure went very well and doctors were able to repair McKamey's anterior and lateral cruciate ligaments.

I still think it's pretty remarkable there were no injuries following a really hard-hitting game against Missouri. Chris Nelson, who was sacked eight times and knocked down a bunch more, appeared no worse for wear and lead the offense most of the practice. Offensive coordinator Bob Toledo made some adjustments and walked the team through a slower version of what will be implemented this week for UTEP.

The defense looked equally strong and also is implementing its UTEP game plan.

The kickers were chased off the upper practice field when the sprinklers began automatically with about 15 minutes left in practice. They scrambled out of the water. It was pretty funny and kind of the life of the kicker. Second-class citizens until the game's on the line.

That's all for now. Check Tuesday's Trib for more Lobo football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 08:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

UTEP senior linebacker and team captain Jeremy Jones broke his leg during practice Saturday. The first stories sounded pretty sad, but Jones already had surgery and is committed to making a comeback. The El Paso Times had this follow-up report today. Jones never redshirted, so he just has to petition Conference USA for a fifth year. It's pretty routine, and I've never heard of those requests being rejected.

Jones' situation is different than Lobos senior Kole McKamey for a couple of reasons. McKamey tore a few ligaments and his injury is much more severe. He also was a fifth-year senior, so his petition would have to go the NCAA for a sixth year. Katie Hnida was the last Lobo to earn a sixth year of eligibility. McKamey said he won't decide until much later whether he will petition since he doesn't have to make that choice until after the season. He was scheduled to undergo knee surgery today.

Posted by ilimon at 11:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

I've got a grab-bag of news after talking with UNM football coach Rocky Long today.

First up, an Aleem Harris update.

Long is still scheduled to meet with Harris some time Monday to determine his fate with the team. The coach said he expects to have made a decision by Monday night's practice.

Harris was the Lobos second leading tackler last season and played the Lobo position. He pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor charges of battery on a household member and was sentenced to two years probation. He initially was charged with three felony counts of aggravated assault and one count of felony kidnapping following a fight with his ex-girlfriend in March outside Harris' student apartment on the UNM campus. His ex-girlfriend suffered a broken nose during the incident.

So is Harris in shape and how quickly can he rejoin the team if his meeting goes well with Long?

Long said Harris came to him about a month ago and was confident his case was going to be resolved soon. The player wanted to know how long his reinstatement period would be, and what it would take to get back on the team. Long explained the NCAA mandates that players go through two practices with just helmets, two practices with helmets and shells and two practices with full pads before they can play in a game. Harris asked if he could get a head start and has been working out with the strength and conditioning coach. He already has fulfilled two days of workouts with his helmet.

Long said Harris took the iniative with his workouts, which the strength coaches agreed to supervise. "Personally, I didn't have any idea if (his case) would be resolved," Long said. He went on to say he didn't think it would be resolved in Harris' favor because it had dragged out for so long and he had heard so many conflicting reports during the past six months.

So it sounds like Harris could roll with the team immediately, right?

Not so fast. Long said even if he accepts him back on the team, Harris will be with the strength coaches Monday, not with the rest of the team. He also declined to say just how long Harris' reinstatement period would be. Long said Harris doesn't even know how long the reinstatement period will be, but he took the initiative to get a head start on it.

Despite a pretty hard hitting game, no Lobos reported any major injuries after the game.

Long took a look at the game tape and said a combination of errors by new starting quarterback Chris Nelson and the offensive linemen. Their miscues led to eight Missouri sacks.

Long said Nelson simply needs to get better at getting rid of the ball, something Nelson said he learned the hard way Saturday night. Long said some of the errors could be attributed to jitters, since it is vastly different to deal with the expectations on a starting quarterback than a backup coming off the bench. He also reiterated Nelson remains the team's starter despite a shaky debut.

Long was much harder on the offensive line. He said all of the linemen are having problems, not just the young guys. "I don't think they're concentrating hard enough," Long said. "To be honest with you, all it takes for a protection to be messed up is one guy going the wrong way."

The coach seriously questioned one call by the officials. He looked at the coaches' tape and the review tape officials looked at in the box and saw that a Missouri running back fumbled around the 2-yard line. He was credited with being down before the ball popped out, although Long said the tapes showed it was a fumble. He said he didn't use a coaches challenge because he couldn't see from his angle and wasn't willing to burn a timeout and his only challenge so early in the game if he wasn't sure the call would be reversed.

He also noted it was a high-contact game with the fewest penalties he had seen in a long time. The Lobos had one penalty, and Missouri had two. "I don't have a problem with that," he said. "I'd much rather have it that way instead of them calling every little thing." Long also said one of the advantages the Missouri offensive line may have had was the linemen figured out officials were not calling holding and opted to tackle instead of just block. Long said it's fair game if both sides know no one is going to call it, and he expects players to adjust.

That's all for now.

Check back later tonight when Richard Stevens and I do our postgame show, which also will give you hints of what to expect when the UTEP Miners roll into town Saturday.

Then come back Monday for loads more on the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 03:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

UTEP took a huge hit Saturday when starting senior linebacker Jeremy Jones fractured his right leg. He is likely out for the season. Here's the El Paso Times' report on Jones.

Jones was the Miners' leading tackler last season with 130 stops. He has 24 tackles in UTEP's two games against San Diego State and Texas Tech this season, with 15 against the Red Raiders. He was on all kinds of watch lists and was supposed to be the teeth of the Miners' defense this season.

Jones has not redshirted yet in his career. If he wants to return, it's my understanding he only has to petition Conference USA for another year. If he had redshirted, as injured Lobo quarterback Kole McKamey did, then he would have to appeal to the NCAA.

Posted by ilimon at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Our slideshow is up. You can get to it from the link to my post-game story.

We also posted coach Rocky Long answering questions from the media after the Lobos' 17-27 loss to Missouri Saturday night.

Posted by ilimon at 10:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We've got our postgame story up, but I admit some technical difficulties with our new site are keeping you from seeing some great photos from the Tribune's Craig Fritz. We'll have that all sorted out early Sunday morning. Well, Sunday morning once the sun comes up early ... not now.

I think the postgame story covered all the bases I wanted to hit, and The Linz hit all his own notes -- love them or hate them. The one thing I will add is that I have never seen El Pasoans as fired up as they are right now about their Miners. So if more Lobo fans don't show up next week at University Stadium, UTEP is going to steal the homefield advantage.

Good night.

Posted by ilimon at 12:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tony Temple carried for five yards, then carried again for another three. Earl Goldsmith carried on the next play for eight yards.

Chase Daniel kept the ball on the next play for three yards.

The clock is now seriously working against the Lobos with 6:02 left and a 10-point deficit.

Chase Daniel picked up a big first down off a nine-yard pass to Chase Coffman.

Daniel then carried for four yards, and the Tigers effectively shaved more time off the clock with their drive.

Temple carried for three yards, setting up third-and-three at the UNM 35.

Daniel carried again for a first down, for a gain of six and first down that should kill any chance of a comeback. The clock is at 2:53 and running.

Temple broke off a 27-yard run to the two-yard line, Temple carried for no gain, but the Tigers should score and cover the almighty 14-point spread. Goldsmith carried for a two-yard touchdown and the Tigers hit the extra point, to push ahead 27-10.

I'm heading down to the locker room to get reaction now. Check Lobo Zone for more updates after the game.

Posted by ilimon at 08:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright earned the biggest return of the season, netting a 44-yard return.

The Lobos start at the Missouri 43.

Chris Nelson waited in the pocked and connected with Marcus Smith for a three-yard gain. Nelson's next pass intended for Travis Brown was broken up my Missouri's menacing defensive end Brian Smith.

Nelson hasn't been rattled enough to stop waiting in the pocket. He paused for awhile before finding Brown for a first down by a nose. It was a seven yard gain that required a chain gang ruling to make sure he got the first down.

Nelson's next pass attempt to Yimin Bauman was incomplete, with Nelson under heavy pressure and Bauman falling down.

He underthrew his next pass to Marcus Smith slightly and it was incomplete, bringing up a huge third-and-10 for the Lobos at the Missouri 33.

Nelson pass to Travis Brown was complete, but it was only good for six yards.

The Lobos brought out Kenny Byrd for a 45-yard field-goal attempt.The punt was blocked badly, and Missouri will take over at the Tigers' 28-yard line with 8:21 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 08:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tony Temple has broken off two straight strong runs, giving the Tigers two first downs in a row.

Missouri moved quickly to a first-and-10 on the 50.

Chase Daniel's pass was complete to Jason Ray for four yards.

This time the Lobos sniffed out Marcus Woods' carry, dropping him for a four-yard loss. Fans wanted a bigger loss, but the officials called it at hte 50 on forward progress.

Daniel's pass was complete to Will Franklin for a 16-yard gain. It's startling how quickly the Missouri offense can make up yards.

Daniel was hit as completed his pass to Jared Perry for a three-yard gain. The Lobos are getting to Daniel a lot on pass rush. Daniel kept the ball, faking a handoff, and gaining one yard on the play. The Lobos now face third-and-six at the UNM 30.

Daniel completed his next pass to Martin Rucker, who was tackled by OJ Swift. Rucker got 14 yards on the play.

Temple earned another big gain, plowing to the right for eight yards.

Daniel kept the ball on the next play, running untouched for an eight-yard touchdown. It was a good call after selling the handoff to the running back.

Missouri's Jeff Wolfert connected on the extra point, pushing the score to 20-10 Missouri with 10:52 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 08:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kicked the ball out of the endzone to help the Lobo defense again.

Chase Danie's pass to Chase Coffman was complete for a nine-yard gain. The small but loud crowd is rallying behind the Lobos.

It's the end of the third quarter, with the score much closer than I ever imagined possible.

Missouri 13, Lobos 10.

Posted by ilimon at 08:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson carried twice for the Lobos, bringing up third-and-three on the Lobos' 27. Chris Nelson made a good pass under pressure, threading the ball to John Mulchrone for seven yards and a first down.

Nelson was hit as he threw the ball away. The Lobos didn't turn the ball over or suffer a loss of yards, but his head has got to be hurting now.

Ferguson found a big hole and rushed for nine yards to the UNM 43. Ferguson now has 90 yards on the night.The chain gang came out to measure, but it was pretty obvious Ferguson was one yard short.

There was a flag on Missouri for jumping offsides, giving the Lobos a first down at Tigers 49.

Nelson's pass was complete to Thomas Wilson, but he worked hard to get back to the line of scrimmage for no gain.

Nelson found the most open Lobo, John Mulchrone, for a 25-yard gain. The Lobos jumped quickly to a first down on the Missouri 26.

Nelson looked off an open Marcus Smith midfield and tried to throw to Mulchrone in the endzone. It was over his head and incomplete.

Mike Love got the next carry, but he was dropped for a two-yard loss.

I don't think Paul Baker has even gotten into this game.

Chris Nelson was hit quickly on the next play and sacked for a seven-yard loss.

Kenny Byrd was up next to attempt a 52-yard field goal. Byrd got it, connecting on the longest field goal of his career.

Missouri now leads 13-10 with 31 seconds left.

Posted by ilimon at 08:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Tigers sputtered on the first two plays, then Chase Daniel hit Chase Coffman for nine yards.

Missouri went for it on fourth-and-one. Daniel gave the option pitch to Tony Temple for a gain of 12 yards. The Lobos were banking on a run up the middle.

Daniel completed his next pass to Will Franklin for four yards. Temple then carried on the next play for a three-yard gain. Temple looked like he was off for a big run, but he fumbled into the endzone and the Lobos recovered for a touchback. Frankie Solomon was behind the big tackle and Phillip Harrison recovered it.

Richard Stevens says Missouri is choking big time.

Posted by ilimon at 07:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's another relatively small crowd at 27,806. We all figured the Lobos would draw at least 30,000.

Posted by ilimon at 07:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wow. Chris Nelson was sacked on the opening play.

Missouri's Brian Smith was on him instantly, dropping Nelson for a 12-yard loss and a nearly safety.

It's second-and-22 at the UNM 5.

Marcus Smith bobbled Nelson's pass to him, setting up third-and-22 at the 5.

Now the Lobos would do well to just get out of safety and blocked punt danger.

Nelson lateraled the ball forward before being taken down, getting rid of the ball the way we hink he planned to do on his last turnover. It was ugly, but at least it wasn't a safety.

Jordan Scott was tested again but punted 34 yards to the UNM 39-yard line. It was a fair catch by Missouri's Marcus Woods.

Posted by ilimon at 07:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndrew Wright broke up a big pass play, but then Tony Temple ran for 18 yards and a first down on the second play of Missouri's drive.

Chase Daniel then hit Martin Rucker across the middle for a 12-yard pass.

Temple ran again, this time gaining six yards.

This is starting to resemble Missouri's first really efficient drive.

Daniel completed his next pass to Jared Perry for a seven-yard gain and first down. Daniel attempted an option play but it turned into an awkward carry by Danario Alexander and was tackled for a two yard loss by Jake Bowe. The next pass to Will Franklin was incomplete and broken up by Glover Quin, setting up third-and-12 at the UNM 33.

Daniel had some time to throw, but he was nearly picked up off by DeAndre Wright on another attempt to Will Franklin.

Missouri punted, with the ball going straight up and bouncing for a 16-yard gain.

The Lobos start at their own 17.

Posted by ilimon at 07:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's a touchback on the kickoff, with the Lobos starting at their 20.

Chris Nelson is back in the game, handing off to Rodney Ferguson for a four-yard gain. Ferguson carried again and ended up just short of a first down, bringing up third-and-one at the UNM 29.

Nelson carried for a gain of two and the first down.

Then Nelson overthrew Matt Quillen, setting up second-and-10.

Nelson was sacked on the next play, but it wasn't his fault. No one even touched Brian Smith, who dropped Nelson for a loss of five. New Mexico faced third-and-15 at the 25.

This time Nelson hit Quillen, but he only gained seven yards on the play and the Lobos were forced to punt.

Special teams is having a good night. This time, Marcus Woods got hit hard but recovered his own fumble for no gain off the punt return.

Missouri will start with first down and 10 on its 26.

Posted by ilimon at 07:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Missouri's Evander "Ziggy" Hood, a starting defensive tackle is doubtful to return in the second half with a foot injury.

Posted by ilimon at 07:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Richard Stevens is taking over my blog for his halftime take on the Lobos. He had his computer started up, but closed it and is just fine with dictating to me. Here's what he had to say:

It's obvious that this might be the best defense Missouri has faced. It might be surprising based on how many yards the Aggies got against the Lobos, but Missouri hasn't been able to run and their passing hasn't been phenoemenal. This might be the best half the Lobo secondary has played because there hasn't been a whole lot of pressure on Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel, but his receivers aren't getting open.

The Missouri defense doesn't look like it's number two in the nation. However, the Lobo offense hasn't given any indication it's going to score a touchdown this game. The Lobos might have scored the only way they could have on defense.

Missouri probably figures Daniel should complete more passes in the second half based on how much time he has had to throw.

Right now UNM quarterback Chris Nelson has been responsible for three points -- and they went to Missouri. His fumble wasn't forced, it was a mental error. I'm not sure if there's any adjustments the Lobos can make in the second half to score with the exception of bringing in backup Donovan Porterie.

The third quarter is key because if the Lobos can stay close going into the fourth quarter, Missouri might start doubting itself.

New Mexico needs to get the ball to Marcus Smith more because he can make some big plays.

Now Stevens is steaming because one of the UNM fat cats threw him an elbow in the buffet line. But it can't be all bad because his mouth is full and he's done talking. He told me not to rude and not type that, but I just write what I see.

Posted by ilimon at 07:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Missouri kicked it and earned a touchback. It's first-and-10 on the 20 with 18 seconds left, but the Lobos wisely didn't run a play. Why put Nelson at risk?

It was a rough start for the UNM offense, but the Lobo D has made some big plays to keep the score 13-7 Missouri at the half.

Posted by ilimon at 07:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Daniel pass intended for Brad Ekwerekwu was incomplete and nearly picked off by Glover Quin.

This time Missouri went for a field goal, with Jeff Wolfert connecting for a 36-yard field goal.

The score is 13-7 Missouri with 23 seconds left in the half.

Posted by ilimon at 07:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Daniel overthrew Will Franklin in the endzone, then he hit Franklin for a one-yard gain. Missouri then called timeout to stop the clock with 33 seconds left in the half.

It's second-and-9 at the UNM 18.

Posted by ilimon at 07:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Missouri nose tackle Jamar Smith was helped off the field and play continues.

It appeared Chris Nelson was trying to down the ball by pitching it forward, but he fumbled oddly and Missouri took over at the UNM 19.

Ouch, Very bad play.

Posted by ilimon at 07:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for eight yards on the first play, taking the Lobos out of automatic safety danger.

The Missouri defense was offsides and Chris Nelson had a free shot on the play, but he downed it. I guess better safe than sorry.

Now it's first-and-10 on the UNM 18. Nelson kept the ball and awkwardly ran out of bounds after gaining 11 yards.

It's first-and-10 at the UNM 29 with 1:03 left in the half.

A Missouri player is down, stopping the game for now.

Posted by ilimon at 07:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Daniel completed a pass to Will Franklin for a six-yard gain, then Michael Tuohy tackled him with a fierce hit. Daniel then hit Jason Ray to bring up first and 10 on the 14. Daniel went to the air again for a gain of eight. He went to Franklin again, but Glover Quin broke up the pass to bring up third-and-two on the seven.

The Lobos stopped Daniel on a quarterback keeper. He gained one yard to bring up fourth-and-one at the 10.

The Tigers went for it on a Daniel carry, but they were stuffed and the ball was turned over on downs.

New Mexico's D obviously was elated to pick up another big stop.

Posted by ilimon at 07:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson broke off his biggest run of the game, gaining 19 yards on the opening play of UNM's drive. Then Mike Love carried for four yards.

The Lobo running game is off to surprisingly good start given Missouri's size advantage.

Ferguson carried again for a gain of five, setting up third-and-one.

Then it appears UNM went to Ferguson one too many times. He was dropped for what appears to be a five yard loss, then fumbled, Marcus Bacon recovered for the Tigers.

Posted by ilimon at 07:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tony Temple rumbled for a first down, but the Lobos did hit Chase Daniel again. Major Mosley is having a hard time wrapping up Temple.

On the next play, Daniel scrambled and looked to run but was dropped for a loss of eight. OJ Swift and Quincy Black were responsible for the tackle.

Daniel then hit Chase Coffman for six, to bring up third and 12. Daniel got great protection on the next play, but OJ Swift appeared to break up his pass to Martin Rucker.

Missouri was forced to punt again but was able to pin the Lobos at their own seven-yard line to start the next drive.

Posted by ilimon at 06:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson carried on the opening play of the drive for eight yards. It looked like he was tugged back by what could have been a facemask, but no call was made. Still a good gain for the Lobos, with Ferguson proving he can shake off tackles.

Chris Nelson then completed a pass to Marcus Smith for yards a six-yard gain and a first down.

Nelson was late on his throw to John Mulchrone, who has got to be the most frustrated Lobo receiver who is always open but never catches much. The pass was intercepted by Del Howard, ending a promising New Mexico drive before it had much time to get started.

Posted by ilimon at 06:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Missouri gained one on its first carry, then Chase Daniel's pass to William Franklin led to another one-yard gain. It looks like UNM's defense is getting some confidence. Daniel's pass intended to Martin Rucker was incomplete, but there was a flag on the play.

It was against Missouri, and the Tigers are set to punt.

Thomas Wilson returned the punt for five yards and the Lobos will start at their 35 and inches.

Posted by ilimon at 06:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kick the ball into the endzone, setting up the start of Missouri's drive on its 20.

Posted by ilimon at 06:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This could be the best chance for the Lobo D to make a big play.

I swear I typed that right before Michael Tuohy intercepted Chase Daniel's pass and returned it for a touchdown. Kenny Byrd converted the extra point and the score is now 10-7 Missouri.

Posted by ilimon at 06:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Another trick play didn't' fare so well, with Marcus Smith dropping for a one-yard loss on a reverse pitch. Chris Nelson completed his next pass to Travis Brown, who seems to be having a pretty good receiving night. The Lobos faced third-and-2 on their 49. Nelson kept the ball, faking the option, gaining five yards and a first down.

Rodney Ferguson carried for four yards and shook off a few tackles before he was brought down.

Nelson was in trouble again on second-and-seven, but this time he did get rid of the ball before being whalloped. He rolled out on the next play and passed up his chance to dump it again. Missouri sacked Nelson for a loss of eight and killed the Lobos' drive.

Jordan Scott punted well again, forcing the Tigers to start their drive at their own 9-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 06:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

But the Tigers got a friendly bounce, and New Mexico will start at UNM 41-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 06:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobo D held in to force third-and-four at the Tigers' 16, then Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel rushed for three yards. The Tigers have some time to talk over their strategy for fourth and one since the clock ran out and it is the end of the first quarter.

This could be a good break for the Lobos or a back breaker if Missouri converts on this play.

We're all marveling at the TCU-Texas Tech score too. Who knew it would be a low scoring game, with TCU holding a 12-3 lead in the fourth quarter?

Posted by ilimon at 06:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Glover Quin returned the Missouri kick to bring up first and 10 at the Lobos' 21-yard line.

Nelson completed his first pass of the day to Travis Brown. He gained five yards on the play. Nelson then completed another pass to Brown for a 15-yard gain and a first down at the 41-yard line.

Brown then carried on a reverse, but the Lobos only gained one yard on the play. The Lobos will probably need more trickery to survive this game.

Nelson was searching for an open receiver down field and got sacked again. He was dropped for a five-yard loss, bringing up third-and-14 at the 36. Nelson completed another pass to Brown, but he gained 12 yards and came up two short of a first down.

The Lobos opted to punt. Jordan Scott came up with a strong punt, and Ian Clark downed it at the Missouri 10-yard line.

Nelson isn't getting a ton of help, but he also isn't proving to be very adept at getting rid of the ball to protect himself.

Posted by ilimon at 06:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Daniel carried on the first play of the drive, scrambling for four yards and bringing up second and six. Daniel then passed to Martin Rucker for a six yards and a first down.

Tony Temple danced and evaded tackles on his next carry, breaking away for a 39-yard-gain. Ian Clark and Major Mosley both missed tackles on the play. Fans were calling for a fumble, but Temple was down before he coughed up the ball.

Temple carried on the next play for no gain. It's second and goal on the six. Daniel found Martin Rucker for a six-yard touchdown pass. Missouri Jeff Wolfert hit the extra point, putting Missouri ahead 10-0 with 5:13 left in the first quarter.

The outlook is bleak for the Lobos, who fared even worse on the Tigers' second drive of the game. Missouri scored on five plays and moved the ball up the field with brutal efficiency.

Posted by ilimon at 06:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson carried for six yards on the second play of UNM's opening drive, then a penalty bounced the Lobos back five yards. New Mexico was charged with illegal participation, with a player heading into the game too late.

Then Nelson was sacked again for a loss of four yards, bringing up fourth down and 17.

Needless to say, the Lobos' first appearance on offense wasn't pretty. Two sacks, one penalty and a punt.

Jordan Scott's punt went out at the Missouri 44-yard line, where the Tigers will start their next drive.

Posted by ilimon at 06:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Turns out Paul Baker isn't the only one with hands trouble. DeAndre Wright bobbled the ball before returning it for seven yards to bring up first and 10 at the 20.

Chris Nelson's first play didn't go well either. He was sacked for a loss of four yards but did hang onto the ball.

Posted by ilimon at 06:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tony Temple rushed for eight yards on the next play, then the Lobos nearly sacked Chase Daniel. He managed to complete a pass to Franklin for five years and a first down but did take a hard hit.

Temple rushed again, this timee for three yards before he was stopped by Cody Kase and Jake Bowe. Temple carried again, but the UNM defense converged and dropped him for a loss of three. It brought up third-and-three, but Chase sat back and found Martin Rucker for a 12-yard pass and another first down.

Daniel then completed a pass to Will Franklin, who rumbled for 21 yards. The only good news for the Lobos was Daniel got hit hard again.

Marcus Woods carried on the next play for loss of one. Major Mosley stepped in again and earned the tackle for a loss. Jared Perry bobbled a pass from Daniel but hung on for a four-yard gain. It brought up third-and-seven. Daniel had Danario Alexander wide open across the middle, but Alexander dropped the ball.

Missouri's Jeff Wolfert converted a 37-yard field goal, to give the Tigers a 3-0 lead. Missouri's offense obviously is potent, with Daniel going 6-of-7 passing on the opening drive.

Posted by ilimon at 06:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd earned a touchback, and the Tigers begin on their own 20.

Chase Daniel's first pass was complete to Martin Rucker for five yards. Then Daniel handed off to Tony Temple, who was stuffed by Major Mosley for a seven-yard loss. It brought up third-and-12, and fired up the small UNM crowd. Daniel then proved why the Missouri offense is so efficient, hitting William Franklin for an 14-yard gain and a first down.

Posted by ilimon at 06:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's still pretty empty, but they're gonna play a football game anyway.

Good news. The Linz has managed to set up his laptop. This is tremendous progress for The Great One, also known as The Technology Challenged One.

Senior Kole McKamey is wearing his game jersey and is on crutches, but he still went out with the captains for the coin toss. Missouri won the toss and will receive. The Lobos will be defending the north goal.

Posted by ilimon at 05:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm settled in at University Stadium, and the crowd looks really thin. I'm not just talking about a crowd slow coming in from the tailgate lot. There's a whole lot more parking spots available around University Stadium than usual. More empty spaces than when the Lobos drew a remarkably small crowd of 27,535 against Portland State. We'll see if more people slip in soon.

I see two big keys for the game today. The first will be the performance of the offensive line. The line has to perform better to protect new quarterback Chris Nelson and finally get the running game started. The other will be whether New Mexico's defensive game plan works for a second year in a row. Coach Rocky Long will be throwing as many players into the game as possible on defense and will blitz the quarterback like crazy. I wrote a story for today's Trib about two rookies who will be joining the defensive lineup this week.

And to recap, here are the Trib's picks for tonight's game. We could all be wrong, but we picked against the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 05:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Today we ran our big game preview, the print edition of Lobo Zone. There's a ton of stories on our Web site, so I'll help you out and post all the links together here in this blog entry.

Our main story is about Jeremiah Lovato, a sophomore walk on the defensive lineman whose fight to get into the Lobo lineup pretty much saved his dad's life.

Then we've got Bo Greer, in his own words. It's a question-and-answer style interview, minus the questions because you all really don't need to read my questions when you can get it all from him. I have to say this is, by far, the most hilarious interview I've done this season. His pre-game ritual of eating a loaded baked potato sounds disgusting but is soooo funny.

Next, we've got Richard Stevens' take on what the Lobos need to do beat Missouri. He says it will involve Super Lobos, and I happen to agree.

Then we take a look at what these BCS games mean to New Mexico.

I wrote a story earlier this week on Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel, so we took a look at one of the Tigers' two star tight ends in Lobo Zone.

KRQE-News 13's Van Tate, Richard Stevens and I put our money where our mouths are and offer our game predictions.

Ask the Coach is back, with a question asking why true freshman running back Mike Love is getting playing time ahead of fellow freshman Amadeus Waters. Check out coach Rocky Long's response.

Finally, we've got New Mexico-Missouri notes and Mountain West Conference notes.

Richard Stevens and I also did a pre-game podcast, which you can download from our Lobo Zone audio section.

I know it's a lot to digest, but let us know what you think when you get a chance. You can post your thoughts on comments section of the blog or on each story.

Posted by ilimon at 01:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UTEP is lucky enough to have a bye this week and got a head start on preparing for the Lobos, according to the El Paso Times.

Here's an excerpt on New Mexico from today's edition of the Times:
Prepping for the Lobos: The Miners began preparation for New Mexico on Thursday. The two teams play Sept. 23 at Albuquerque.
"New Mexico, particularly on defense, does a lot of unusual things," Price said. "So we need the extra time to prepare. They blitz and stunt and move around. The defense moves all the time. It's a very, very unusual defense. (Lobo head coach) Rocky Long is known for it.
"I think we need to improve for this game, and just play a little bit better. Nothing stays the same. Either you get better, or you get worse. We want to get better."

Posted by ilimon at 11:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I talked with Mark Benford, the deputy district attorney, and he confirmed former Lobo Aleem Harris pleaded guilty Thursday to three counts of misdemeanor battery on a household member. Harris was sentenced to two years probation.

Harris originally was charged with three felony counts of aggravated assault and one felony count of kidnapping in connection with a fight he had with his ex-girlfriend outside his student apartment on the UNM campus. Benford said the case never went to the grand jury, and Harris never came close to being indicted on the felony charges.

Coach Rocky Long said this morning he heard about the case and is meeting with Harris Monday to discuss his future with the team. Although Long has welcomed back players who have been found guilty of misdemeanors with in-house punishment, he said he does it on a case by case basis. He said he wants to hear from Harris before he makes any decisions.

Harris did watch one fall camp practice, but he hasn't been around team workouts since then. He did appear to be in good shape, and told coaches he was working out with the hope of rejoining the team soon. Not that one can really tell by looking, but he appeared to be in good shape every time I saw him. No couch potato-itis was apparent just by looking at him.

Harris would have been the Lobos' top returning tackler if he was around this season. Last year he finished with 67 tackles, including 38 unassisted. I previously posted that he led the team in tackles, but that honor went to Mike Mohoric with 85 tackles.

Posted by ilimon at 11:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

KOB-Channel 4 is reporting tonight that former Lobo football Aleem Harris pleaded guilty today to misdemeanor charges in connection with an altercation with his ex-girlfriend in March. Channel 4 reported Harris opted to plead guilty to three misdemeanor charges to expedite his chances of rejoining the Lobo football team.

Harris was originally charged with three felony counts of battery and one felony count of kidnapping after fighting with his ex-girlfriend outside his student apartment on the University of New Mexico campus. Police took her to the hospital after the altercation and doctors determined her nose was broken.

The TV station reported football coach Rocky Long will meet with Harris Monday to discuss his fate with the team.

Long has said he would not reinstate Harris if he was convicted of a felony but would consider bringing him back if he walked away with a misdemeanor conviction or less. Harris would have to agree to in-house punishment and work his way up the Lobos' depth chart. He was a starter last season and the team's leading tackler.

Harris' return definitely could have an impact on the Lobos, especially if he can be ready for action once conference play rolls around. He brings the beef and raw talent New Mexico could use, although it seems Major Mosley and Quincy Black are entrenched at the Lobo position. If he is allowed back, I would not be surprised if he was moved to a traditional linebacker spot.

I'll hunt down more details for tomorrow's Tribune.

Posted by ilimon at 10:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

There wasn't much news to report out of Lobo football practice, with the team wearing shells and making light contact. No one was injured during the workout or during practices this week.

There are a few lineup changes. Paul Baker finally got the hook after having trouble fielding the ball on punt and kickoff returns. Coach Rocky Long has been really sympathetic and patient with Baker because he is a sophomore and has the potential to break off some big runs. Baker will be the backup punt and kickoff returner. DeAndre Wright will be the starter on kick returns and Thomas Wilson will be the starter on punt returns.

I also wouldn't count on a seeing Bryan Clampitt as the holder in this game. The Lobos will go with senior Curtis Pino, the backup holder, so that Clampitt can sit out one game. Clampitt has appeared in every game this season and played in the junior varsity game. He is only allowed to play in 12 games this season, so he needs to miss one. The Lobos would rather take care of that soon so that he is available any time as a backup quarterback.

Andrew Leo Lopez asked how Missouri fared at Colorado, figuring it was the Tigers' only opponent with comparable altitude. Missouri leads the series with Colorado 36-31-3, but the Buffaloes lead the series 20-13-1 at Boulder.

The search for the answer to his question brought up another interesting point. Missouri coach Gary Pinkel doesn't treat the media guide as a real reference point for reporters. It is an extremely flashy recruiting guide. The NCAA mandated a set number of pages for all media guides last year, so Missouri dropped all historical information from its guides. Now it's all lavish material about the Missouri program and its campus. Missouri compensates by making all records available online under a section on the lower right side of it's football home page called Tiger history. The Lobos, on the other hand, have a mix of recruitment areas, player profiles and a lot of helpful historical records.

And on a personal note, I want to wish my mom a happy birthday.

That's all for today. I'm really excited about the print edition of our Lobo Zone section in Friday's Tribune. I think it's worth picking up the print edition to get the full impact of graphics and pictures, but you can also see a lot of great stuff online. Richard Stevens and I also recorded a podcast previewing the Tigers-Lobos matchup. So check it all out tomorrow at www.lobozone.com.

Posted by ilimon at 08:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Quarterback Kole McKamey attended his first practice since his knee injury and was in good spirits. You'll have to read Thursday's Trib for more on Kole. I gotta save some of the good stuff for the paper.

The quarterbacks seem to have settled into the pregame routine. I'll take advantage of this opportunity to give my take on the Lobos' top three quarterbacks:

New starter Chris Nelson is a 6-4, 220-pound senior. I think Nelson is a less mobile quarterback who can throw the ball well. He also is taller than McKamey, so he can see over the offensive line rather than looking for passing lanes. Nelson has performed well in high-stress situations. Nelson has been pretty honest all week and said he has been feeling more pressure. At the same time, he thinks he can control the nerves and perform on game day. Nelson has never done anything to hurt the team, but also hasn't made any game-changing plays.

Backup Donovan Porterie is a 6-4, 200-pound redshirt freshman. Porterie is by far the Lobos' most athletic quarterback, but he still seems to be learning the offense. He also tends to make bad decisions under pressure, throwing interceptions in practice or behind his receivers.

And third-stringer (by a nose) Bryan Clampitt is a 6-4, 225-pound junior. Clampitt is a walk-on who has made the most of his opportunities at New Mexico. He is extremely bright, but he isn't as fast or as athletic as Nelson and Porterie. I would guess the Lobos' dream quarterback would be blending Porterie's skills with Clampitt's knowledge of the offense and decision-making skills. He is coach Rocky Long's favorite scout-team quarterback because he prepares the defense so well. Without being told, he does little things like making sure the center clutches the ball and tries to throw the defense off with his count. He's all about making the team better.

No one sat out Wednesday's practice due to injuries, but a few Lobos are banged up. Cody Kase is still pushing off with a limp after sitting out a week due to an injured hamstring. Ian Clark also was moving a little slowly. That means former Bear Frankie Baca could see some playing time.

I had several articles in today's Trib. One took a look at some of the issues the offensive line has been having this season. Another was Long's take on the spread offense. And I had some Mountain West Conference notes.

Check out Thursday's Trib for more Lobo football news.

Posted by ilimon at 07:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We're still in the midst of a Web site redesign, which has made a few features a little harder to find. Congrats on finding my blog. If you're hunting for the other Tribune sports blogs, you can find them at this link. We'll be moving them over to Lobo Zone and Sports pages soon. And here's a link to where you can find our Lobo Zone podcasts. Richard Stevens and I did a postgame show after the Lobos' win at New Mexico State. I also posted the audio of coach Rocky Long answering questions during his weekly media lunch Tuesday. You can find both of them here.

We're working out a few bugs, and the same features you know and love will be available on Lobo Zone. We have a story introducing the redesigned Web site and outlining the new features. It also includes a comments section where you can tell us what you think of the new site.

On to football ...

I wrote a story for today's paper on Chris Nelson, the Lobos' new starting quarterback with Kole McKamey out for the year with a severe knee injury. Chris and the other backups, Donovan Porterie and Bryan Clampitt, said they are dedicating this season to Kole. They also said Kole told them he would be back this season as a sort of player coach.

A lot of readers asked me whether McKamey will petition for a sixth year of eligibility. I talked to Long, and he said the coaching staff won't even ask McKamey if he's interested in coming back until after has had surgery and is beginning his rehab. The school cannot file a petition with the NCAA on his behalf until the end of the season, so everyone can afford to wait.

Kole has not been to practice since the injury. Long said McKamey can't have surgery until the swelling in his knee has gone down, so he is working with trainers right to now to rehab the knee and prepare for the surgery. UNM team doctors will be doing the surgery.

Michael Tuohy did not work out with the team today because he is still feeling a little sick. UNM head trainer Dave Binder said Tuohy should be fine by Wednesday but was a little sluggish so the trainers kept him on the sidelines and made sure he saw team doctors. Cody Kase returned to the practice lineup after sitting out a week because of a hamstring injury. He was a little slow pushing off the injured leg during drills but seemed fine in seven-on-seven action.

The team worked in full pads today on a combination of drills and installing the plays for the Missouri game. The Lobos will be sticking with Devin Clark at right tackle and Robert Turner at right guard. The switch helped the offensive line perform a little better at New Mexico State, although Long said the team has still made a lot of assignment errors. Obviously the defense needs to play really well against Missouri, but I think the game could hinge on the offensive line. New Mexico has to run the football to set up the pass in Bob Toledo's offense. The team hasn't been able to run the ball effectively yet. The Lobos need long drives against the Tigers if they expect to have a chance on game day, and that all depends on the play of the offensive line.

Long said Sunday he will use two true freshmen defensive linemen as soon as the coaches are sure they are ready. Well, they better be ready now. Vincent Federico, a nose tackle who is 6-4 and weighs 280 pounds, and Kendall Briscoe, a defensive end who is 6-2 and weighs 275 pounds, will play against the Tigers. UNM is burning their redshirts because they need some beef on the defensive line counter Missouri's big boys. Federico and Briscoe won't start but they will see a lot of time Saturday.

That's all for now. Check out Wednesday's Trib for loads more football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 06:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

We're obviously going through some Web site changes here at the Tribune. Please be patient while we make the shift. I think you'll really like the final product.

On to the Lobos.

Chris Nelson and the rest of the quarterbacks cycled through regular Monday night drills. They did some running, then worked on a lot of routes with receivers and tight ends. I talked with Chris Nelson, the new starter; and backups Donovan Porterie and Bryan Clampitt. They all said they were close to Kole McKamey and are still upset by his injury. "It's just really sad," Clampitt said. "We kind of grew up here together. I've been here four years and he's been here five, so we've seen a lot of hard times together and a lot of good things now. So, I don't think there was anything worse than watching him get hurt."

I wouldn't take away from any of the Lobos who have been hurt while I've covered the team, but it was really sad to see McKamey go down. I've watched him work so hard for so long, and he can't seem to catch a break. The guys said they plan to work hard this season and dedicate the year to McKamey. He was not at practice, but the group said McKamey already told them he would like to take on the role of player-coach on the sidelines. "He's going to be with us all the way," Nelson said.

The defense did a lot of running and light drills. The team generated five turnovers that set the offense up to score 20 points, but the Lobo D still did a ton of running. They run for every point the opponent scores but they can subtract the amount of running if the defense scores. Unfortunately those turnovers didn't set up scores by the defense, so the group was stuck with a lot of sprints.

Defensive end Michael Tuohy felt sick, so he watched the team run. Head trainer Dave Binder said Tuohy may have had strep throat but he should be back in practice with no problem later this week. Coaches and teammates teased Tuohy, who they said was too big a star after winning Mountain West Conference defensive player of the week honors to run with the team.

The offensive line stayed late to run extra. In addition to the punishment for assignment errors, the group is carrying the burden of allowing Aggies into the backfield and hitting McKamey.

Ultimately, it seemed like an upbeat but focused workout.

That's all for now. I'll have more Lobo football coverage in the print edition of the Tribune and audio available following coach Rocky Long's media lunch. If you have any Ask the Coach questions for any of the football coaches, you can post them in the comments section until we get our submission form back online.

Posted by ilimon at 09:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The Lobos won the big rivalry football game Saturday night, but I have to give credit to the Aggie fans for winning our joke contest. They came up with more creative, original and funny jokes. Perhaps it's years of being underdogs and honing their defensive mechanisms, but the New Mexico State crowd just made us laugh more here at the Trib.

Here are the reasons we chose the winners, and the jokes that earned honorable mention honors:

We published the top 10 Lobo and Aggie jokes in Saturday's paper. It's important to note we did not recognize any jokes in the newspaper that digressed into personal attacks, althought there were some gems targeting specific players. I listed the Linz's jokes in a separatee category because he belongs in his own class.

So let's go down the list of winners:

AGGIE JOKES
1. An Aggie went riding, and everything was going fine until the horse suddenly started bouncing out of control. He tried to hang on, but with a foot caught in the stirrup, he fell off head-first. With his head bouncing up and down, the horse didn't even slow down. And just as the Aggie was giving up hope and losing consciousness, a Kmart employee came out and unplugged it.
-- Ditch Menace

I've heard variations of this one before, but it's still funny.

2. A man from New Mexico was on a business trip to Las Vegas (Nev). While he was there he hit the tables and did quite well. He was waiting at the airport to go home when they announced a delay in his flight. Looking around for something to do, he wandered around the airport. He stepped into a lounge and decided to have a drink. While there he noticed a sign and a machine. The sign said "Have a discussion with the computer - it's more sensible than most of your friends." This intrigued him, so he goes over to it.
The instructions said to put in $2, enter your state of residence, select a general topic, and then put in your IQ. "What the hell," he thought, put in $2 of his winnings and keys in "New Mexico, Sports" and then, because he was feeling really good, entered "140" for the IQ. The computer then started an interactive discussion between the guy and a physicist from Los Alamos on the physics of the curve ball.
He really enjoyed that, so he thought he'd try again. "New Mexico, Sports," and "120." He's involved with a sociologist from UNM regarding the changing image of athletes as role models and its impact upon society.
He tried again, and lowered the IQ to 100. He's in a discussion with a reporter regarding the wild-card race in baseball.
Curious, he lowers to IQ to 80. The computer asks, "How 'bout them Aggies?"
-- judas_priest

This one's unique, creative and gets extra points for a not-so-subtle dig sports reporters and Aggies. I'm glad we're not all the way at the bottom of judas_priest's pecking order.

3. Witnessed one Aggie yell across to another on the opposite side wanting to know how to get to the other side. Second Aggie yelled back, "You are on the other side."
-- Andrew Leo Lopez

This one made Richard Stevens laugh out loud. Good enough for me.

4. What's the difference between a bank on a Sunday and Aggie stadium on game day?
The bank has a larger crowd.
-- Jacob

This one scores points for targeting attendance at NMSU, making it a more specific Aggie jokes than Texas A&M jokes people copied from other sites and submitted.

5. What will the NMSU basketball team lead the nation in this year?
Steals!
-- THE BIG ENCHILADA

I think THE BIG ENCHILADA is actually an NMSU fan, so this joke is all the more funny. I guess he takes pride in the basketball team's legal woes. It slipped in for being amusing and pointed but not specifically naming a player.

LOBO JOKES
1. Two University of New Mexico football players were down on Central partying. They were hootin' and hollerin' when a bartender asked them why they were celebrating. The smart one said proudly that they had just finished a jigsaw puzzle and it only took two months.
"Two months!?" exclaimed the bartender.
The Lobo replied, "Yeah, but the box said 4-6 years."
-- aggiefan

This joke made Trib editor Phill Casaus laugh, and he's heard a ton of Aggie and Lobo jokes during his career.

2. A woman was walking through her new house with the contractor. As they walked through rooms, she told him what color she wanted him to paint each room. In the bedroom she said, "I think this would be nice in a cream." The contractor stuck his head out of the window and yelled, "Green side up!" This perplexed the woman.
They moved to the living room and she said, "I would love rose in this area." Again the contractor strolled over to the window and yelled, "Green side up!"
Again the woman was confused but did not say anything. As they walked into the kitchen she proudly announced that she wanted this room to be "a glorious shade of mauve." Once again the contractor went to the window and yelled, "Green side up!"
Finally she could not stand this anymore. "What are you shouting `green side up' out every window of this house?" He replied, "I'm sorry. I have a crew of UNM students laying sod across the street."
-- aggiefan

I just thought this one was hilarious. I hadn't heard it before, but it may already be in circulation. It's still a good one.

3. Top Ten Courses at UNM:
10. Philosophy: Why Don't They Spell It with an "F"?
9. Pre-law Seminar: Age of Consent in 50 States
8. Sandwich Making: A Project Course
7. Hand-Shadow Workshop
6. Subtraction: Addition's Tricky Friend
5. Cliff's Notes vs. Monarch Notes: Two Views of the Classics
4. Hydraulic Principles of the Keg
3. The College Classroom: A Simulation
2. The ABCs: An Extended Version
1. Your Rear from a Hole in the Ground: A Comparative Study
-- aggiefan

We all laughed on the sports desk when we saw this one too. I think my favorite was number six, but they're all pretty good.

4. Why is the State Penitentiary located in Santa Fe and UNM in Albuquerque?
Santa Fe had first choice.
-- GoAGG1ES

This one stood out because it was specific to New Mexico.

5. Where do you go in Albuquerque in case of a tornado?
Lobo Field. They never get a touchdown there.
-- aggiefan

This one was especially funny because the Lobos had not scored a touchdown yet in the 2006 season going into the NMSU game.

HONORABLE MENTION
What do you call a Lobo who is immune to pepper spray?
Aaron Johnson
-- Aggies Go

Well, I thought this was the funniest one, but we don't endorse personal attacks in the newspaper. Blogs are a little more informal and allow for discussion. The response I heard from readers was that this joke was the best of the bunch, so I felt I had to explain why it didn't make our top 10. It was a very funny joke but too much of a personal attack.

When driving into Albuquerque from the south, the signs read "Interstate 25 Lobos 0."
-- Forgot my name
I've heard this before but it's still funny.

What's the difference between the Aggies and Rice Krispies?
Rice Krispies know how to get in a bowl.
-- Loborick

This one ran in either the Thursday or Friday paper promoting the joke contest. It was good.

What's the difference between a Lobo and Rice Krispies?
Rice Krispies know what to do in a bowl.
-- Lobos are wannabe Aggies

This is a funny response and also ran in the Thursday or Friday paper.

There were some other good jokes but way too many of them posted by Lobo fans obviously copied from Texas A&M joke sites. The Aggie fans rightly called them out on it when they failed to even remove references to College Station.

So Aggie fans collect the smackoff win, while the Lobos have the more important bragging rights with a UNM win. Thanks for participating, and let us know if you're interested in a rematch during basketball season.

Posted by ilimon at 09:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I'm back in Albuquerque and have loads of updates.

First off, doctors confirmed the worst news for Lobo senior quarterback Kole McKamey. He tore both his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and lateral cruciate ligament (LCL). He is out for the season and will have surgery soon.

Coach Rocky Long said he will check with McKamey to see whether the quarterback is interested in petitioning the NCAA for a medical redshirt and sixth year of eligibility. McKamey has played less than 20 percent of the season, so he is eligible to make the request but it's up to the NCAA. Long said he would have to do more research before he could say whether the NCAA would grant the petition, although he does think the NCAA has been awarding more medical redshirts lately.

I would think McKamey would have a strong case because he has missed so much time during the course of his career due to injuries. The petition can't go to the NCAA until the end of the season.

Long has reviewed the game film and the hit McKamey took was brutal but not illegal. He also said he didn't think there was any malicious intent behind the the hit. An Aggie defender was on the ground, then got up and dove at McKamey. Another Aggie was closing in on McKamey from behind. They hit him simultaneously, with the guy on the ground hitting his and pushing up and the other pushing his body down. If the offensive player had done the same thing, it would have been an illegal block, but there's no rule against on defense.

"It's not even a late hit," Long said. "It's one of those terrible things in football you can't prevent. No matter what the rule is and no matter how you train your kids, stuff like that happens. It's ugly on film, but it's not an on purpose deal. It's not a late hit. It's just one of those things."

Chris Nelson takes over as the Lobos' fulltime starter this season. Long said Donovan Porterie, who threw a 35-yard touchdown pass off a trick play against the Aggies, will likely take over as the backup quarterback and Bryan Clampitt will move to the third string but there may some competition for the second string job this week in practice. He said he was pleased both players had a chance to participate in a junior varsity game against New Mexico Highlands Sunday afternoon.

In other injury news, Blake Ligon had surgery Sunday morning after breaking his arm. He suffered a forearm fracture and should be out two to three weeks. True freshman Frankie Solomon will most likely play backup at both safety spots, although Long said the defensive coaches could later decide to move Lobo position backups Clint McPeek or Jake Bowe to safety. Starting Lobo position players Quincy Black and Major Mosley played every possession against the Aggies, and Black hasn't missed a possession this season.

The UNM coaches sought and earned a big stat correction. Michael Tuohy has now been credited with four sacks instead of just three. His four sacks tie a conference record and are the most for a Lobo in the past 18 years. I smell a defensive player of the week frontrunner. Those awards won't be announced until Monday.

Long's first coaches show of the year will be broadcast tonight on KOBTV-Channel 4. It is slated to start at 9:30 p.m., but it might air late or early depending on the end of the Sunday night NFL game.

That's all for now.

Posted by ilimon at 03:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

I'm settled back in at my parents' house in El Paso, where I'll spend the night before making the morning trek back to Albuquerque. One obvious but major correct to my Game Day blogging. Safety Blake Ligon, not DeAndre Wright, is the Lobo who likely broke his arm during the game.

The Lobos junior varsity will be playing a game Sunday at 1 p.m. that will be open to the public. i believe it will be played in University Stadium and will get more details up as soon as possible. UNM players who have not played in the first two games but are not redshirting are eligible for the game.

I'm spent for now. We've got a full story posted and the Linz apparently is somewhere in Juarez partying up a storm. Check back for a photo slideshow, audio and blog updates on Sunday afternoon on Lobo Zone.

Good night and good luck. (Hey, it's worked for a lot of other people. There are worse ways to sign off.)

Posted by ilimon at 01:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

I'm heading down to the locker room for reaction. Check back soon for a postgame story and the Linz's take at www.lobozone.com.

Posted by ilimon at 09:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Holbrook got off one pass for four yards, then Holbrook was sacked for the sixth time, setting up third-and-five. Holbrook hit Jeremiah Williams for a first down that stops the clock at 42 seconds.

Holbrook's next pass to Derek Dubois was on the mark, but he dropped it for what we think in the press box was the third Aggie drop of the game. Holbrook then overthrew Tim Tolbert to set up a third and 10. Holbrook's next pass was intended for AJ Harris, but it was broken up by Lobo Major Mosley.

The Aggies picked up an a false start, with 25 seconds left to set up fourth and 15 at the Aggie 28. It was Hail Mary time, but Dubois dropped another pass and the Lobos prayers were answered.

UNM took over downs and emerges with a win.

Posted by ilimon at 09:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson rushed for three yards for fourth down and five on the Aggie 37. NMSU coach Hal Mumme burned his third and final timeout with 1:51 left in the game.

The Lobos punted and it bounced into the endzone, setting up a touchback with 1:44 left.

Should they have gone for it? We'll find out.

Posted by ilimon at 09:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nelson threw to Travis Brown for no gain. The Aggies had to call another timeout with 1:56 left in the game. The last play set up third-and-eight on the Aggie 40.

Posted by ilimon at 09:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aggies used a standard punt and Paul Baker held onto it for a return to the UNM 24-yard line.

New Mexico takes over with 4:31 left in the game and a six-point lead.

Rodney Ferguson carried the ball for a 12 yards to the Aggie 26. The Lobos rushed for two yards on the next play. Then Ferguson ended up losing one yard on the next carry.

The Lobos faced third-and-nine with 3:11 left.

Nelson came up huge with a pass to Marcus Smith, who gained 21 yards on the play. Ferguson ran for two yards and the Aggies had to call a timeout with 2:05 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 09:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Holbrook led a quick charge down the field, collecting three straight first downs, then got lucky when a bad snap and quick pass nearly turned the ball over. The Aggies were facing third-and-one on the Lobos' 22. He threw into traffic and hit Jeremiah Williams, but he dropped it. So it's a huge fourth-and-one with 5:03 remaining in the game. Holbrook kept the ball and rumbled to the UNM 17 for nine yards and a first down. He hit Derek Dubois in the corner of the endzone, but he bobbled the ball. He then hit Dubois again in the endzone, and this time he caught it. The extra point was good, so now the Lobos lead 34-28 with 4:43 left.

New Mexico needs to run the clock to hold onto this game. The remaining crowd is getting fired up and it could be a crazy night.

Posted by ilimon at 09:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM's Paul Baker showed he still doesn't have the surest hands, bobbling the ball and sticking the Lobos at their own three-yard line. The Lobos were saddled with a one-yard loss on the next run play. Rodney Ferguson then rushed for about two yards. Chris Nelson was hit as he threw the ball high over Travis Brown's head and out of bounds. Jordan Scott was left to punt out of his own end zone. Scott punted it to the UNM 46-yard line.

It was an ugly drive, but at least the bad return hasn't cost the Lobos any points yet.

Posted by ilimon at 09:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd booted the ball for another touchback, and the Lobos are in the driver's seat.

Chris Williams tied his personal best in receptions with seven, picking up a five-yard gain on a pass from Chase Holbrook. But Williams, a Rio Rancho star, isn't destined for a happy ending tonight. Jeremiah Williams then collected an eight-yard gain for a first down at the NMSU 37.

Holbrook then hit Nick Cleaver for a 60-yard touchdown pass. The Aggies scored the extra point. The Lobos now lead 34-21 with 8:45 left in the game, but this just shows how quickly NMSU can score. I still think UNM is in the driver's seat, but they can't afford to stop now.

Posted by ilimon at 08:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson was facing a tough third-and-nine, but he connected to Marcus Smith for a 61-yard touchdown. He had a nice curl move on the pass and made it all the way to the end zone. Kenn Byrd connected on the extra point to push the Lobos up 34-14 with 10:44 left and pretty much put the game out of reach.

That was, by far, the prettiest play of the game. It wasn't exactly poor defense, just a nicely threaded pass and great route run by Smith. And his speed paid off in all the right ways.

Posted by ilimon at 08:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aggies seem to be in even more of a hurry-up offense mode than usual. Jeremiah Williams broke off a couple of strong runs to earn a first down at the NMSU 42-yard-line with 12:47 remaining.

Holbrook then threw for a quick first down, followed by a run by Chris Nwoko. He fumbled for the second time on the night. It was forced by Quincy Black. Glover Quin recovered the ball.

The Aggies now have five turnovers and waning hope of a comeback.

Posted by ilimon at 08:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson collected a three yard gain, then ran into traffic on the next drive but the Lobos were called for holding to force second-and-17. Chris Nelson was hit hard on a pass attempt to Marcus Smith that sailed high. Then Nelson's pass to Yimin Bauman was just out of reach. Kenny Byrd preserved the scoring drive with a 38-yard field goal to give the Lobos a 27-14 lead.

The Lobos strong drive to end the fourth quarter only ended with three points, but it should be enough if the UNM defense still has strong legs.

Posted by ilimon at 08:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mike Love picked up an seven yard gain, followed by a four-yard run by Paul Baker. Tim McManigal then sacked Chris Nelson. Nelson bounced back by hitting John Mulchrone for a 48-yard gain to end the third quarter.

Tonight's attendance was 29,095. It's the Aggies' biggest crowd of the young season and 11th highest in Aggie Memorial history. It also happens to top the Lobos' attendance last week.

The injuries, by the way, are piling up for the Lobos. McKamey is watching the game on crutches and DeAndre Wright has his right arm in a cast and is standing on the sidelines in street clothes.

Posted by ilimon at 08:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Justine Burries got his biggest run of the night for six yards, but Chase Holbrook's next pass on the mark to Chris Williams was dropped. Holbrook then scrambled for a first down, getting the ball to the Aggie 19.

The Aggies ran the ball again, with Burries gaining four yards. Holbrook then hit AJ Harris for a 10-yard gain. NMSU's runs are really designed to gain some yardage but lull the pass defense into a false sense of security. Holbrook passed again, this time to Nick Cleaver for seven yards. Holbrook passed to Burries, but the NMSU running backs are cursed and the Lobos forced a two-yard loss on the play.

Once again, Holbrook passed when the Aggies needed a first down and hit Chris Williams for a first-and-10 on their 45. Burries actually got some traction on the next carry for an eight-yard run. Holbrook's attempt to a relatively open Williams but he overthrew him. The hole for Burries on the next play collapses fast, with OJ Swift smothering him for a one-yard loss. Burries also was injured on the play.

The Aggies went for it on fourth-and-two and earned the first down off a Chris Nwoko carry.

NMSU collected another first down off a pass play, clawing to the UNM 28-yard line. Holbrook went for the corner of the endzone, but he overthrew the receiver. The quarterbacks aren't giving receivers good shots at jump balls in the endzone tonight.

Holbrook's next pass was complete to Tim Tolbert for a five-yard gain to the UNM 23-yard-line. Holbrook completed a pass to Chris Buckner, but there was a flag on the play and the Aggies

Aggie David Romaka, who replaced Burries, fumbled as he was nearly in the endzone. Glover Quin forced a fumble and Major Mosley recovered, taking the ball back to the UNM 35. The play was reviewed by the officials, but it was upheld.

This was the longest drive of the game with 18 plays on the drive, but it actually hurt the Aggies to burn so much clock.

Posted by ilimon at 08:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Opps. The Lobo offense got called for a 10-yard offsides penalty. Rodney Ferguson helped the cause with a 10-yard gain to make it second-and-10 at the UNM 33. Then Ferguson drove up the field again for seven yards, to set up a third-and-three on the UNM 40.

I predicted a pass to tight end, and Chris Nelson managed a pass under pressure to John Mulchrone for first-and-10 at the Aggie 40. Nelson looked for his receivers long on the next three plays, but he really overthrew them on all three plays. Lobos punted and Aggies start the next drive on their own nine.

By the way, Tennesse picked up a 31-30 win over Air Force in Knoxville. The Falcons failed on a two-point conversion that could have won the game. That'll be controversial later but shows Air Force has some muscle and is no pushover.

Posted by ilimon at 08:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd kicked off and earned a touchback to open the third quarter.

Justine Burries is having a rough night compared to what he earned against Southeastern Louisiana. The Aggies finished with -3 yards at the half and don't look much better now. The Aggies gained four before the Lobo Major Mosley sacked Chase Holbrook for a nine-yard loss and forced NMSU to quickly punt. That gives the Lobos five sacks on the night.

A flag was thrown on the punt, with NMSU charged with a false start. The Aggies will punt from their own endzone. Another flag was thrown on the repeat punt, but it was offsides on New Mexico and the penalty was declined.

So the messiness all ends up with first-and-10 at the UNM 33.

Posted by ilimon at 08:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I think the biggest news so far is the Lobos' offensive line has improved dramatically. As in, it showed up in Las Cruces tonight. Perhaps it was the shock of seeing Kole McKamey go down with what appears to be a pretty serious injury that finally woke the group up because the Hitmen didn't exactly start out on fire.

While Chris Nelson has moved the ball well (he was six-of-15 for 134 yards and two touchdowns) he nearly got picked off several times. He won't be that lucky all the time and needs to get his passing under control. It would be good to give Donovan Porterie more reps considering his only play was a 34-yard touchdown pass, but I know from practice that he is learning the offense and often throws interceptions when pressured.

I think they should play Mike Love a lot since they burned his redshirt year. Why else would you yank it? I'm not saying play him more than anyone else, just give him plenty of time in the rotation.

We have met both Bob Toledo's offense and Rocky Long's defense during the first half. The Lobo D forced three big turnovers and put the kind of pressure on Aggie quarterback Chase Holbrook that is essential to disrupt the NMSU offense.

Looks good for the Lobos, but the night isn't over yet. Let's see if they win one for the Gipper. (That, unfortunately, would be McKamey.)

Posted by ilimon at 07:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Once again, Richard Stevens takes over my laptop for his halftime analysis.

This time Stevens had his computer on, but the Aggies have a shortage of ports for high-speed Internet connections. Here's his thoughts:

The defense is finalling doing some good things to help the Lobos offense. The three turnovers they forced have made a big difference this game.

It looks like the Lobos were fortunate to pick up 24 points, with at least one of the touchdowns slipping right through an Aggie defender's hands.

And Stevens says he's curious why backup Chris Nelson seems to know the Lobos' offense better than the starting quarterback, although it could be the opponent. The offensive line also has been playing a lot better than last week, helping Nelson along.

Miss the Linz? He'll have postgame commentary on his blog after the game. By then, we should have all this Internet access fun sorted out. And maybe we can convince the state Legislature the Aggies deserve air conditioning and wireless Internet in the press box. Please ....

Posted by ilimon at 07:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

The Aggies seem to live in hurry-up offense, but they seemed a rattled early in the drive.

But NMSU can comeback fast. Chase Holbrook hit A.J. Harris for 21 yards and Derek Dubois for 11 yards to quickly make up ground with 29 seconds left in the half.

Holbrook then hit Chris Williams for five yards under pressure. The clock quickly ticked down, and the Aggies called timeout with nine seconds left.

NMSU set up to kick a 52-yard attempt, but it seems like it could be a fake. It turns out to be a really ugly kick that was blocked by Stephen Hutchinson and dropped around the 15-yard line. And that's the end of the first half.

Posted by ilimon at 07:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The replay official decided the play stands as called, and it is New Mexico ball.

It may be awhile before the Aggies put the back in running back Chris Nwoko's hands after that play.

The Lobos nearly connected to Marcus Smith, but it was broken up by Alex Bernard. Bernard was hit hard on the play and was slow getting up but stayed in the game.

Nelson scrambled for eight yards, getting a nice assist from a Lobo I just missed identifying.

Nelson then hit Luke Walters across the midde. They are using the tight end! It was a 14-yard gain for first down at the Aggie 28. Nelson tossed a pass way over Travis Brown's head in the right corner of the end zone. Nelson made a dangerous dump under pressure, but it was down with no trouble to set up third-and-10 at the Aggie 28. The Lobos called a timeout with 1:28 left in the first half. Nelson had plenty of time to prepare but nearly got picked off throwing quickly across the middle to Thomas Wilson. It was incomplete.

Kenny Byrd missed his first attempt of the year, going wide right on his 40-yard attempt.

It's Aggie ball on their 28 with 1:08 left.

Posted by ilimon at 07:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Chase Holbrook almost gave the Aggies a quick lift in a pass that narrowly was out of Chris Williams reach. It woulda been a huge gain.

Kole McKamey is back on the sidelines, but he's still on the cart. He is in street clothes and being helped onto the sidelines to cheer on his team.

Meanwhile, Lobo Michael Tuohy sacked Chase Holbrook again, this time for an eight-yard loss.

Holbrook hit Dubois on the next play and was tackled by Major Mosley. It would have been three yards short of a first down, then Mosley was charged with a late hit. The play set up first-and-10 for the Aggies.

UNM's Ian Clark then responded in a huge way, recovering an Aggie carry. Tyler Donaldson forced the fumble again. The play, however, is being reviewed by officials. If it stands, it's a first-and-10 on the 50-yard line.

The Lobos could pick up an interception and two fumbles if this play stands.

Posted by ilimon at 07:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aggies are trying to fire up the crowd on the kickoff and fans are responding. The Lobos took a fair catch for a touchback. There's been a little trash talk among the players on the field. I can't hear from the press box, obviously, but they're getting in each other's faces.

Chris Nelson completed a pass to Travis Brown I would have sworn was either about to be an interception or perhaps not even a fair catch. But it was called good and set up a first down on the 50.

Rodney Ferguson finally flashed his running skills, rumbling for 30 yards.

Nelson connected with Marcus Smith for a Hank Baskett-esque touchdown pass. Byrd connected on the extra point. The Lobos lead 24-14 on a three-play scoring drive. It was 80 yards in 1:27.

This, obviously, is the debut of Bob Toledo's offense. Glad it could finally join us this season.

Posted by ilimon at 07:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd didn't net a touchback, and ended up handing the Aggies a first-and-10 on the NMSU 35 since he kicked it out of bounds.

Chase Holbrook scrambled to get Derek Dubois for a 44-yard gain. Quincy Black was in the neighborhood but turned back toward too soon.

Holbrook then hit Chris Williams for 16 yards and a first down at the UNM 15. After an incomplete pass, Holbrook hit to Brandon Allen for a 15-yard touchdown. There was no one in the area on defense, but the Lobos still eanred a flag for defensive holding on the other side of the field. A flag was thrown on the extra point. It was offsides on the UNM defense, and the extra point was good. The Lobos now lead 17-14 with 5:32 left.

This developing into quite a shootout. The good news for Lobo fans is UNM actually is keeping up with the pace following the Portland State debacle.

Posted by ilimon at 07:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The play stands as called, the Aggies just burned their challenge and a timeout. Not so good in what could be quite a battle.

Mike Love had a much better second career carry, rumbling for nine yards to the Aggie 23. It makes him the leading rusher on either team. It's been all passing. Matt Quillen ran for four yards to get the first down. Chris Nelson, who was back on this drive, was nearly picked off on a pass intended to Travis Brown. It was a lucky situation since the Aggie in position to grab it had an open lane back.

The reverse to Marcus Smith was briefly open, but he only gained two yards. It set up third-and-eight. A flag was called on Marcus Smith for encroachment into the neutral zone. Fancy way of saying offsides. It was a five-yard penalty, setting up third-and-13. Nelson put up a bad pass to Paul Baker, but he couldn't get to it.

Kenny Byrd connected on a 38-yard field goal to give the Lobos a 17-7 lead with 6:43 remaining.

It was just one play, but Porterie looks like the Lobos' best quarterback right now. Is it time for the Porterie era to begin?

Posted by ilimon at 07:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd is steady again this week, kicking off for a touchback on his latest assignment.

The Aggies sputtered, and Tyler Donaldson forced and recovered a fumble. His play cemented what has been a monster game for the Lobo defense. It set up a first-and-10 at the Lobos at 9:02, but Aggie coach Hal Mumme is challenging the fumble. Interesting choice to burn his sole challenge in the second quarter. It's the first coaches challenge in a UNM game this season. Last week, there was one official review.

Posted by ilimon at 07:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Holbrooks pass intended to Derek Dubois was intercepted by OJ Swift. A strong Aggie drive instantly became a first down on the Aggie 35.

Then redshirt freshman Donovan Porterie stepped up and connected with Marcus Smith for a 34-yard touchdown pass and the extra point was good. That was Porterie's debut and it obviously was a really nice way to start your college career. The Lobos are up 14-7 with 10:03 left in the half.

The word we got simultaneously in the press box is Kole McKamey injured his left knee and will not return. We're being told we'll have to wait until postgame to learn more about the injury.

Posted by ilimon at 06:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chase Holbrooks pass intended to Derek Dubois was intercepted by OJ Swift. A strong Aggie drive instantly became a first down on the Aggie 35.

Then redshirt freshman Donovan Porterie stepped up and connected with Marcus Smith for a 34-yard touchdown pass and the extra point was good. That was Porterie's debut and it obviously was a really nice way to start your college career. The Lobos are up 14-7 with 10:03 left in the half.

The word we got simultaneously in the press box is Kole McKamey injured his left knee and will not return. We're being told we'll have to wait until postgame to learn more about the injury.

Posted by ilimon at 06:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ooh, the Lobos flashed a little option with Chris Nelson carrying it for six yards, to set up third-and-fourth on the UNM 36. Then Aggie Nathan Nuttall blind-sided Nelson as he attempted to hit Rodney Ferguson. It set up a Lobo punt. The good news is Nelson looks fine.

The Aggies took a fair catch and will start at their 26-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 06:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Freshman running back Mike Love just lost his redshirt on a run for no gain on the last play of the first quarter. I'm not sure why Rocky Long did it, but I guess they were looking for someone with a lot of speed to help them pick up some big plays.

It's the end of the first quarter, and it looks like it could shape up to be a great game. The Lobos' offense has shown potential to actually keep up with the Aggie air attack after a lackluster start this season, and the defense is flexing its muscle. You know the Lobos have the edge in the kicking game. Stay tuned for what could be a wild night.

Posted by ilimon at 06:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aggies are picking up all the penalties New Mexico had last week.

They gained footing early, but fell back to first-and-15 at their 31-yard-line. So far, the UNM defense has done a good job containing the New Mexico State running game. Chase Holbrook, however, connected with Christopher Buckner for a 16-yard gain. Buckner held on to the ball despite a harsh hit. It was impressive.

New Mexico earned its first sack of the year for a four-yard loss. The front line of the UNM defense really is performing much better today. And to back up my thought there, the Lobos sacked Holbrook again for a nine-yard loss. The Aggies were suck on third-and-22. Lobo Glover Quin and Quincy Black nearly picked off a long pass to Chris Williams. It was incomplete and the Aggies were forced to punt.

Thomas Wilson returned the ball to the UNM 30-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 06:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lobo Chris Nelson gave the Lobos a huge lift by connecting with Marcus Smith for a 33-yard gain, setting up first-and-10 on the Aggie 17.

Nelson hit John Mulchrone for a 17-yard touchdown. A flag was thrown, but it was on defense and the score was good. Kenny Byrd connected on the extra point to tie the game at 7-7 with 4:07 left.

This is the best the UNM offense has looked this season, moving the ball quickly and giving Nelson time to work. The scoring drive lasted just four plays, 72 yards and 1:37. There could be a quarterback controversy brewing if Nelson comes up big this game, but it's really early.

Posted by ilimon at 06:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aggies got some short yardage on carries to bring up fourth-and-five, and Hal Mumme decided to go for it. Quarterback Chase Holbrook completed a pass to Christopher Buckne for a seven-yard gain and first down.

New Mexico state was charged with illegal shift, setting up first-and-15 on the 30-yard-line with 6:15 left in the first quarter. Then Aggie Chase Holbrook's pass was incomplete and looked he was just dumping out of bounds.

The Lobos pounced on the ball after an incomplete pass and a flag was thrown on what looked like a late New Mexico hit, but the officials picked it up and called it off. Could be a gift and make up for the fumble play.

Holbrook looked like he was in trouble on third-and-15, but sat back and connected to Chris Williams for a first down on the Lobo 13-yard-line.

Holbrook closed out the drive witha quick 13-yard pass to Nick Cleaver for a touchdown. The Aggies converted the extra point, setting up a 7-0 Aggie lead at 5:53. It's Cleaver's third career touchdown reception.

This Aggie march down the field doesn't bode well for the Lobos. New Mexico State is moving with confidence and authority the Lobos have lacked on offense so far this season.

Posted by ilimon at 06:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Aggies took over their own 22-yard-line.

Kole McKamey left the field on the cart. It appeared to be a serious left knee injury, but no official word yet in the press box.

New Mexico State opened with a nice reverse to Chris Williams for a seven-yard gain. It's a lot like the fly sweep gains the Lobos used to count on last season. Then Aggie Chase Holbrook it Derek Dubois for a 15-yard gain and the first big pass of the day. Dubois was wide open up the sideline.

Then Holbrook hit Nick Cleaver across the middle for a 19-yard gain. After some weak running plays, the Aggies air attack is taking hold.

The Lobos stuffed Aggie Jeremiah Williams' carry. Quincy Black and Tyler Donaldson combined on the tackle and Donaldson forced a fumble, but New Mexico State recovered the ball. It seemed pretty borderline, but the Lobos opted not to challenge ...

Posted by ilimon at 06:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Thomas Wilson returned the Aggies punt for first-and-10 at the 37-yard line. It's nicest field position the Lobos have had in awhile.

Backup Chris Nelson handed off to Rodney Ferguson for a two-yard gain. Nelson's pass intended to John Mulchrone was incomplete. The Lobos closed out the drive with an incomplete pass to Travis Brown and was hit as he was throwing.

The offensive line hasn't exactly redeemed itself yet.

Posted by ilimon at 06:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lobo quarterback Kole McKamey appears to be in serious pain on the sideline. I'd be surprised if we see him again tonight. His parents and grandparents just lined up on the sidelines to check on him.

Meanwhile, the Aggies sputtered in their opening drive. It was third-and-10 with 11:37 left when the Aggies called timeout to avoid a delay of game penalty.

Trainers are wrapping McKamey's knee.

Posted by ilimon at 06:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Lobo quarterback Kole McKamey appears to be in serious pain on the sideline. I'd be surprised if we see him again tonight. His parents and grandparents just lined up on the sidelines to check on him.

Meanwhile, the Aggies sputtered in their opening drive. It was third-and-10 with 11:37 left when the Aggies called timeout to avoid a delay of game penalty.

Trainers are wrapping McKamey's knee.

Posted by ilimon at 06:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

After two mediocre run plays, quarterback Kole McKamey pass to Marcus Smith was broken up. Then McKamey crumbled. It appears his left leg was injured and he is being helped off the field. Senior backup Chris Nelson is warming up, while the Lobos punted. The punt was downed at the Aggies own 25-yard-line.

Trainers are examining McKamey's left knee.

Posted by ilimon at 06:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Paul Baker returned the kickoff for 25 yards.

Posted by ilimon at 06:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It breaks Lobo tradition to receive. I guess they want to build up confidence early ...

Posted by ilimon at 06:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Who says the Trib isn't full of homers?

Here's our pregame predictions:

Iliana Limon - 27-21 Lobos
Richard Stevens - 28-24 Lobos
Van Tate - 27-24 Lobos

Maybe we're crazy, but we think the Lobos' talent and depth should win this game. We'll find out in a few minutes.

If we're wrong, it could be a long year for the Lobos. Colorado State just upset Colorado, Wyoming lost by one point in overtime. And Air Force is up on Tennessee.

Posted by ilimon at 06:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Remember the erratic Missouri football team that could be play great or terrible on the drop of a dime last season? Well, it sure would help the Lobos if that team came back this season. Instead, the Tigers are looking pretty good on TV right now. Missouri is beating Mississippi 17-7 at the half.

If you can't make it down to Las Cruces today, this has got to a football fan's dream couch potato day. Here's what I would be doing if I didn't have this job and all:

Check out a few early games. They matchups aren't particularly exciting, but it's a good chance to size up Missouri.

Then you've got a great lunch special with Penn State visiting Notre Dame on NBC.

Then it's time to work your remote control. Come 6 p.m., I'd check out the Lobo game on KRQE-News 13 and take advantage of my digital recorder to make sure I'd miss anything big. I'd also pop into Lobo Zone, to see if Richard Stevens is taking a leap off the Aggie press box. Granted, it's not that high but he could still do some damage.

Then I'd flip over to the monster Texas-Ohio State game also kicking off at 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., it gets tricky because I curious how UTEP will handle visiting Texas Tech. So again, lots of flipping back and forth. The great thing is, if one game gets bad, you move on to the next.

End the night with some Sportscenter, although ESPN News might be a better bet. More highlights, less shouting analysts and bad jokes.

Alas, this isn't my day since I'll be in Cruces regardless of whether it gets ugly, but it could be yours ....

Posted by ilimon at 11:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I talked with New Mexico State officials today, and they had about 9,000 tickets remaining for Saturday night's Aggie-Lobo showdown in Las Cruces. Part of the Pan-American Center (Aggies basketball arena north of the stadium) is under construction but the parking options are still the same.

With such a large projected crowd, I would plan on getting there early. The university exit off of Interstate 10 gets really backed up leading up to game time. Tailgate lots open at 6 p.m. If you think you might need a hotel room after the game and haven't booked it yet, start hunting know or pack a few extra dollars for coffee on the drive home. There aren't that many hotels in Las Cruces, so many of them are already booked. And the UTEP-Texas Tech game already is a sellout, with a lot of Red Raiders fans making the trip west.

New Mexico State's marketing department is taking its cues from the Miami Heat and is asking Aggie fans to wear white to the game.

We've got several Lobo football stories in today's Tribune, including a very interesting column from Richard Stevens. I think it's worth reading, regardless of whether you agree with him. I wrote a story about the play pen, a pretty interesting program UNM has developed to help players with rehab. The headline asks whether it's worth the pain. I think you can tell from Cody Kase thinks it is since it might make the difference between playing or sitting out longer. We also have our weekly pregame podcast up on Lobo Zone.

Check back here near kickoff for tons of game updates. We'll also have a postgame story with photos and, of course, the Linz's take.

Posted by ilimon at 07:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's rivalry week, and the Trib is asking New Mexico and New Mexico State fans to share their best, family-friendly Lobo and Aggie jokes.

You can post your jokes in the comments section of the blog, but please remember to keep it clean.

We'll pick the best ones and run them in Saturday's Tribune.

This will be the top entry on my blog all week, so scroll down for more news updates.

Posted by ilimon at 10:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (59)

I couldn't make it to practice Thursday because I had to head to El Paso early for a family obligation. I do, however, still have Lobo football news. I deliver, even when I'm on the road.

Linebacker Cody Kase will be on the travel squad, but his playing status is still up in the air. I don't think a final decision will be made until game day.

Saturday's game will be available via a ton of options. It will be broadcast on KRQE-News 13 and KKOB-AM (770). The game also will be available on Sirius Satellite Radio and ESPN Gameplan. Enjoy it while it lasts because it's back to hard-to-find games next week unless there is a huge satellite deal signed.

I'm pretty amused by the response to my call for family-friendly Lobo and Aggie jokes. I have the honor of choosing my favorite ones that will be run in the Trib. I will be paying special attention to the jokes I haven't heard before and ones that don't just replace Texas A&M with New Mexico State.

I also had a story about Chris Williams, an Aggie wide receiver and Rio Rancho grad who has molded himself into a major scoring threat for New Mexico State. I found his mother's comments about Hal Mumme especially interesting. I think it's safe to say a lot of people view Mumme as arrogant and aloof, but Cynthia Williams said Mumme was a great a coach and a place she was happy to send her son.

While reporting this story, Cynthia Williams metioned that her younger son, Marcus, may be off to a good start in football as a junior at Rio Rancho High, but he really wants to play basketball. He doesn't have offers yet, which is not unusual for a junior from a tiny state. He did get an invitation from Ritchie McKay's elite camp. So are we headed for a family feud, with Chris down south and the Marcus potentially up north? Cynthia Williams said she told Ritchie if the school wants to recruit Marcus and her son think it's the best place for him, then it really doesn't matter that Chris is at New Mexico State.

That's all for now. Check out Friday's Trib for more football coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 08:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

First up, injury news. Linebacker Cody Kase did not practice today and UNM head trainer still considers him day-to-day. If I had to make a guess, I'd say Cody won't be playing. But stranger things have happened. Running back Matelius Epps had success surgery on his wrist and is expected to miss the next two to three weeks, although that timeline could vary.

The team equipment managers aren't wearing Aggie shirts this week. If you recall, coach Rocky Long decided to give the mangers Portland State T-shirts and hats to motivate the team. This week it was all UNM gear. I talked with one of the managers, and he said no one has said a word about it. I suppose it's a good idea to part ways with things aren't working.

The Lobos looked pretty good in practice. The level of aggression is still high. Quarterback Kole McKamey was connecting well on passes and the offensive line has been staying extra all week to do some drills and extra running. I think it's safe to say, after mulling over the loss to Portland State, those are the two areas that really hurt the Lobos. Kenny Byrd was the only guy who had a good game, but the offense really was surprisingly bad. I'm willing to predict that won't happen again. The defense also was swarming and really getting after the scout, a group I actually think is pretty competitive considering it is really overmatched.

The Lobos will be hitting the road Friday and will stay in El Paso instead of Las Cruces. They don't hate Aggie territory that much, it's just that the only hotel in Las Cruces big enough to accomodate the football team happens to be a major Aggie party spot the night before the game. So the Lobos migrate south to my hometown every time they face NMSU.

New Mexico has been getting beat up pretty bad nationally following the Portland State loss. The Aggies took up residence ESPN.com's Bottom 10. This week, the Lobos joined the pack at No. 3 on the list. David Duffey wrote the list and had this entry for New Mexico, "Whack": The Lobos invited I-AA Portland State down to Albuquerque to be the main course, but they got Whacked instead." This isn't that funny unless you assume Mr. Duffey thought the Lobos still played in the WAC instead of the Mountain West. In that case, Lobo fans, take heart and consider the source.

The Lobos also got burned by ESPN.com's Pat Forde in his weekly column, the Forde-Yard Dash. He picked on Duke, New Mexico and Colorado for losing to Division I-AA teams. He wrote, "Given the results, it's time for Duke to drop the sport, New Mexico to drop any hope of a sixth straight winning season and Colorado to drop and give The Dash 20." Umm, I can't really mount a strong defense there, other than to say there's still 11 games left.

I wrote a story today noting a comment coach Rocky Long's made during his weekly media lunch. Long said, "If one year of rebuilding a program, or a year-and-a-half of rebuilding a program is too long for everybody, then the next guy can have his turn." It's a remark that certainly got my attention and has a lot of people asking what exactly he meant. I talked to Long again today after practice, and he said he had no sinister intentions and wasn't trying to say he was ready to walk out on the job. All he was doing was asking for patience and for people to give him time to rebuild the team. You can hear Long's remarks for yourself on the Tribune's audio recording of the media lunch. While you're there, you can listen to my audio interview with Las Cruces native turned Lobo Tyson Ditmore.

I also wrote a Mountain West Conference notebook. I think the story about the UNLV backup freshman kicker being called out of the stands and asked to play the second half is priceless. And the news out of TCU is scary. Apparently the Frogs always have a good starter and even backup quarterback. I feel like I need to copy Countdown's Keith Olbermann and figure out how many consecutive days have passed since the Mountain West Conference declared its TV deal a success considering the Mountain still isn't available in very many places.

And finally, I had a story on how little smack there was among Aggie and Lobo players and coaches. Then I went out and created some among the fans. We posted a poll on the blog for the best, family-friendly Lobo and Aggie jokes. My editors liked them so much, we're running a few each day leading up to our big story highlighting the best ones on Saturday. So keep them coming, but no fair cheating and grabbing them from Texas A&M and Nebraska Web sites. I can see those a mile away, especially when you forget to substitute Las Cruces for College Station.

That's all for now. As always, more news in Thursday's Trib.

Posted by ilimon at 08:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Prosecutors issued arrest warrants for five current and former Colorado State football players in connection with a felony bank fraud investigation. The players were among seven people who were indicted this morning by a Larimer County grand jury on charges ranging from identity theft to forgery.

Adakole Brian Ike Abata, Robert Bruce Herbert and Micah Lamar Crews are all current Rams players who are facing criminal charges. Colorado State officials announced this morning all three were suspended from the team. Herbert was the only one who played in the Rams' season opener against Weber State, returning one punt for 19 yards.

Here's one story posted this morning by the Rocky Mountain News and another from ESPN.com.

Posted by ilimon at 12:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nothing new on the injury front. Martelius Epps is still expected to undergo surgery for a fractured right wrist Wednesday, and he should be out three to four weeks. Cody Kase missed practice and is still rehabing his injured hamstring. Wednesday's the big day for him. If he can get back on the field in some form, he'll get to play Saturday. If he can't coaches are likely to hold him out. They have a rule that they hold guys out who don't practice Wednesday, but this rule obviously can be broken. So I say Wednesday should tell us a whole lot, but it's not the final verdict.

Jeremiah Lovato will making his first start on the offensive line, in part, because Stephen Hutchinson pulled a big no-no against Portland State. Hutchinson hit Vikings quarterback Sawyer Smith out of bounds, giving Portland State a big first down instead of fourth and about a mile. So he'll sit early against the Aggies but still rotate into the game.

The players seemed to be pretty fired up at practice today. Both sides of the ball installed game plans for New Mexico State. As you all know, I can't say a word about any of that except to say they did look better. That was probably the most confounding thing for me in the press box Saturday night. This team did not look that bad all through practice, and the dropoff was both startling and dramatic. I think they're a lot better than first performance, even if it behooves coach Rocky Long to keep saying his team isn't very good right now.

Fullback Matt Quillen said he noticed a major difference in practice today. "I think there was a lot more intensity from players and coaches," he said. "We're still really embarrassed by what happened. Now we have this great opportunity to use that feeling as motivation."

Safety Tyson Ditmore, a Las Cruces native getting a lot of attention this week, said the Lobos finally seemed to shake off the loss to Portland State. "It was hard at first because I think everyone was in shock," he said. "We were just kind of sluggish coming back because we couldn't believe had blown it so badly the first time out. I think we've dealt with it now and are ready to prepare for New Mexico State."

To catch up on some Aggie News, I highly recommend Las Cruces Sun-News sports editor Geoff Grammer's blog. Of course, its also good to visit the paper's regular sports section too. One of Grammer's most interesting blog entries notes that senior Aggie wide receiver Akieem Jolla participated in team drills Tuesday. Jolla is recovering from knee surgery but is considered the Aggies most talented receiver. Grammer suspects the best Jolla could do is slip in for five to to 10 plays. That's a blessing for Lobo fans because New Mexico State's offense already is a handful without him.

That's all for now. Don't forget to pose questions to the coaches using our Ask the Coach form. This is a shorter week with the Lobos hitting the road, so you have to pose those questions soon if you want answers.

Posted by ilimon at 06:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

The University of New Mexico coaches shows are finally a go on KOB-Channel 4.

UNM football coach Rocky Long's first show will air Sunday at 9:30 p.m. He will have a show through the football season, then the show will feature UNM men's basketball coach Ritchie McKay and women's basketball coach Don Flanagan. The shows will be broadcast at 9:30 p.m. until the NFL season is over, then they will move to 10:30 p.m. No details have been released yet, but I would expect them to be rebroadcast on the Mountain, the new regional network covering Mountain West Conference sports.

KOB-TV sports director J.P. Murrieta is scheduled to host the shows.

Posted by ilimon at 02:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Running back Martelius Epps fractured his hand during Saturday night's loss to Portland State and will likely undergo surgery Wednesday. He will see a team doctor Tuesday to confirm the initial diagnosis and is expected to miss at least three weeks. Epps hid the injury Saturday night, but he told trainers about it Sunday afternoon when players reported for treatment. Coach Rocky Long said freshman Mike Love is on the travel squad and could end up playing if either Rodney Ferguson or Paul Baker is injured.

Cody Kase is still considered day-to-day. UNM head trainer Dave Binder said the injury isn't as bad as he thought, but Kase could still miss the game at New Mexico State. Kase did respond well to rehabilitation work Sunday and Monday. Long said he still isn't counting on having him back in the lineup against the Aggies. "I really hope I get a chance to play," Kase said. "It's tough because we've only got 12 games, we've lost one and I don't want to miss out on anything else."

The Lobos did a combination of running and drills, with an emphasis on correcting a slew of errors they racked up against Portland State. The players had the day off of school, so Long said they were a little sluggish when they showed up for team meetings. They did exactly what I would have done in their shoes. Slept in and rolled out of bed in time to grab a bite to eat and start watching game film. "It took a little while for them to wake up, but they were fine eventually," Long said.

Down south, the Aggies had their meetings with the media today.

No special smack to report, but the players I talked to during phone interviews said they learned a lot last season about getting too emotional after wins or losses. Their goal this season is to go undefeated -- or 1-0 -- every week. Look to read and hear that line a lot this week because it apparently is the team motto. I heard it from everyone I talked with today.

I offered my early preview of the Aggies in today's Tribune, while Richard Stevens suggested the Lobos' loss to Portland State was really just a ploy to fool New Mexico State. Richard and I also recorded a podcast, our lovely version of audio analysis, that you can download or simply launch from Lobo Zone.

That's all for now. Loads more to come all this week in the Trib.

Posted by ilimon at 10:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

It turns out the Lobos did win something Saturday night.

Porche Torrance, a 6-foot-1 senior post from North Richland Hills, Texas, has orally commited to play for the University of New Mexico basketball team. She apparently gave her word during the UNM football team's 17-6 loss to Portland State.

Dianna Sager, Torrance's coach at Colleyville Heritage High, said Torrance will cancel a visit to Colorado she had planned next week and inform coaches at other schools such as TCU that she will be a Lobo.

Torrance, who is a major name in the talent-rich Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, comes with some big-time credentials. She has been on the varsity at a Class 5-A school, Texas' largest designation, since her freshman year. She has a versatile game, averaging 19 points, 9.5 rebounds, 4.7 blocks and 3.7 steals per outing her junior season. Her list of awards is about a mile long.

She is the third player to commit to the Lobos this recruiting season, leaving New Mexico with two more scholarships. Torrance joins Kelsey Ansley, who also visited Albuquerque during the weekend, and Amanda Best on the Lobos' commitment list.

Check out Monday's Tribune for more on Torrance.

Posted by ilimon at 09:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

Here's a roundup of updates I collected after talking with UNM football coach Rocky Long Sunday afternoon:

Cody Kase suffered a severe pulled hamstring against Portland State Saturday night, and Long doesn't think he'll be able to play against New Mexico State. Long did say the healing time can vary for hamstring injuries, but for right now he's not counting on having Cody out there. That leaves one senior starter available on defense.

Offensive lineman Bo Greer also suffered a knee injury, but for right now it doesn't appear to be very serious. He is still being evaluated by team trainers, but Greer should be able to play against the Aggies.

Long compared this group to the 1998 team he coached when he first took over at UNM. It's a really inexperienced group with some older players who have never played much and a lot of younger guys seeing their first action. The 1998 team went 3-9 overall and 1-7 in the Western Athletic Conference's Pacific Division. Its wins were over Idaho State 38-9, Utah State 39-36 in triple overtime and Hawai'i 30-20. He said he thinks this team will be bad early, competitive in the middle of the season and good late. And he's still sticking with the mantra he repeated over and over Saturday night, "We're not a very good football team right now."

He isn't planning on making sweeping changes or making major adjustments to his practice format this week. Obviously the coaches will look to correct a slew of assignment errors and problems that popped up Saturday night, but he won't be rewriting the workout routine players have come accustomed to under his watch. He said it's important for coaches to be patient with young and inexperienced teams. "Knee-jerk reactions don't help," he said.

Paul Baker's punt return job, however, will be up for grabs. Long always has placed a premium on catching and protecting the ball rather than a flashy return game. He got neither from Baker Saturday night and guys will be trying out for the job this week.

The Lobos played just 15 players on defense against Portland State, and really 14 most of the time with Phillip Harrison coming in on the last two possessions for Tyler Donaldson at nose tackle. Donaldson played 63 snaps and looked exhausted after the game. Quincy Black and Major Mosley, the two Lobo backs, played all 65 official snaps and the penalties that didn't make the official play tally. Long said he expects to use a few more substitutions next game, but don't look for major adjustments in his starting lineup because he already is using his best players.

Long said he was disappointed by the performance of the offensive line. I thought the Lobos wouldn't have to worry as much about their offensive line this year with three strong returning starters, but there were some significant breakdowns on the line that hurt New Mexico. Long said part of it probably came from playing against a much bigger and stronger defensive line than the Lobos ever faced in practice. Rathering than adjusting to stunts, they had 300-pounders coming right at them. It's the kind of thing the Lobos will face again against BYU and Utah.

That's all for now. I'll post an update later tonight with some items that didn't make it into my Monday story.

Posted by ilimon at 03:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

We've got a few new things posted on Lobo Zone today.

First, there's coach Rocky Long's audio interview with the media following the Portland State game.

Next, we've got an awesome slideshow with audio from Trib photographer Craig Fritz.

And finally we've got the game stats posted. They're not pretty but they don't lie.

We've also got our ongoing Ask the Coach feature. You can pose questions to any of the UNM football coaches, and we'll fetch the answers. I'm sure there are plenty of things you're scratching your head about following this game, so fire away.

Posted by ilimon at 03:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I just got back from a pretty tasty late dinner, but it didn't make that game seem any prettier. If the Lobos don't improve significantly, it could be a really ugly season. The good news is, based on what I've seen in practice, the players really didn't live up to their potential. There certainly are problems, but I doubt New Mexico really is as bad as it looked tonight.

We've posted a full recap complete with players' and coaches' comments, along with awesome photos by Trib photographer Craig Fritz. And the Linz has thrown in his commentary. I don't think he was too harsh given the circumstances.

Check back, umm, later today I guess (shesh it got late fast) for more updates. We'll have coach Rocky Long's full postgame remarks and a photo slideshow on Lobo Zone. I'll also catch up with Long and offensive coordinator Bob Toledo and post blog updates Sunday.

That's all for now ... zzzzzzzzzzz.

Posted by ilimon at 12:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

The UNM defense kept the pressure on and forced a turnover on downs, but time has run out on New Mexico. I'm heading down to the locker room to get reaction from players and coaches. Check back for my recap, complete with lots of quotes, and the Linz's take on his blog. The Linz promises not to be too harsh. Even he's surprised by this performance, but now he'll have to favor the Aggies next week.

Back in a few ...

Posted by ilimon at 09:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kole McKamey tossed the ball to Travis Brown under presure for a quick 10-yard gain. McKamey's next pass incomplete to Matt Quillen and it seems doubtful the Lobos will even get a shot at another score. The energy just isn't there.

And McKamey backed me up. His next pass was intercepted by Charles Manigo, and he returned it for 22 yards. Now it's first and 10 at the UNM 41-yard line. And that should do it with 3:29 remaining in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 09:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos applied good quarterback pressure again on defense for two downs, but Sawyer Smith completed a 11-yard pass to Kenneth Mackins for a Portland State first down. Now the clock is squarely working agains the Lobos and the life seems to have been sucked out of the team.

The defense slowed a run by Kelena Ho'okano for one yard and nailed Mackins for no gain. This third down and nine was big and Smith showed it by fumbling the snap. He recovered it, setting up a Portland State punt. But there's only 4:36 left in the game and Paul Baker nearly turned the ball over agian. He fumbled, but it was recovered by Ian Clark.

The Lobos last shot, most likely, starts with first-and-10 at the UNM 31-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 09:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Kole McKamey got sacked and now the Lobos are moving backward. He failed to complete a pass to Marcus Smith, setting up third down and 28 on the Portland State 42-yard line. And he overthrew his next pass to Thomas Wilson.

I like what appears to be a hurry-up offense by Bob Toledo, but McKamey isn't handling the nerves very well.

Now New Mexico is punting, ending up with a touch back. The outlook is bleak with 8:25 remaining in the game.

Kase has an injured hamstring and will not return this game. At least it doesn't sound like he'll miss more action this season, just the rest of this ugliness.

Posted by ilimon at 09:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kole McKamey converted a pass to Travis Brown for a huge 52-yard gain. Now it's first and 10 at the Portland State 24.

Ferguson carried for two yards, but there was another holding flag on the Lobos for a loss of 10 yards.

Richard Stevens says if they score, they should go for two because he doubts the Lobos could rattle off three scoring drives. Let's see if they get this one.

Posted by ilimon at 09:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It's looking reaal bad for the Lobos.

The Lobos picked up another offsides penalty and Vikings quarterback Sawyer Smith scrambled to the four-yard line, but a personal call foul on Portland State pushed the Vikings back to first and 10 at the 19-yard line. Kelena Ho'okano picked up about five yards, but then Portland State picked up another penalty setting up first and 15 on the 24. Smith then fumbled, but he recovered it for a two-yard loss for second-and-17 at the 26.

That personal foul during Smith's scramble looked huge until Smith connected to Tremayne Kirkland for a 26-yard touchdown. Worse yet, Cody Kase went down with an injury and is being helped off the field.

Portland State converted the extra point and is up 17-6 with 10:51 remaining in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 08:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The UNM D has responded and quickly forced third down and seven on the Vikings 32nd yard lane. Then Portland State was called for illegal procedure, but then the Lobos jumped offsides. So the penalty math it ended up third-down and six. Sawyer Smith connected with Tremayne Kirkland, but it was short of a first down. O.J. Smith made the tackle for the Lobos to force forth-and-one and a Portland State punt.

Lobo Paul Baker promptly fumbled the punt and it was recovered by Kelena Ho'okano on the Lobos' 23-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 08:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson broke a big 10-yard run, but Kole McKamey's next pass to Smith was incomplete. The Lobos went back to Ferguson and he only gained two yards.. The Lobos can't get anything going on offense and the Vikings defensive front is tough.

McKamey's final pass of the drive was incomplete to Smith and nearly was intercepted. Jordan Scott is back to punt, and it was a Portland State fair catch. Now it's first and 10 on the Vikings 28-yard line.

Sawyer Smith completed one pas for four yards before the end of the third quarter. It's strange but it appears the pressure is back on the UNM defense again to make something happen.

Posted by ilimon at 08:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

That was huge for the Lobos. I'm surprised, but New Mexico really needed that lift. It turns out Martelius Epps got a nine-yard gain and first down. Crazy.

Posted by ilimon at 08:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ouch. The Lobos had an illegal block on the return. The Lobos start at first-and-10 at their own 10-yard line.

Martelius Epps fumbled the ball, and it was recovered by Portland State. Now it appears the call is being challenged, and it's really close. The press box is divided on this one, with several saying he's down and others not. That's bad because it could be deemed inconclusive evidence and would cost the Lobos a timeout.

For the record, Richard Stevens suggested they put Epps in instead of Rodney Ferguson. Now he says, he knew he was going to make some kind of a play. He didn't promise it would be a good one.

Posted by ilimon at 08:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Portland State is starting strong, with a screen pass to running back Kelena Ho'okano for a first down. Ho'okano rumbed for four yards then appeared to fumble but was down. The Vikings back with an unpronouncable name got two yards on the play. The Lobos closed down well on the next play, but Major Mosley was charged with a face mask on the Portland State quarterback.

So penalities bail out the Vikings again. Quarterback Sawyer Smith connected to Kenneth Mackins for seven yards. Then Smith scrambled well out of pressure for two yards when he easily could have been sacked if he didn't run well. Ho'okano ran for four yards. The Lobos needed a big stop there, but they couldn't stop the run.

Smith failed to complete the next three passes, giving the defense a little life. The Vikings went for a field goal, with Eric Azorr connecting from the 42-yard line. The score is now Portland State 10, Lobos 6 with 3:08 remaining in the third quarter.

New Mexico needs to snap out of its malaise quick or they'll join Colorado with an ugly loss to a Division I-AA opponent.

Tonight's attendance, by the way, was just announced in the press box and is 27,535.

Posted by ilimon at 08:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Now the pressure is on the Lobos starting with a touchback.

Rodney Ferguson started another drive well with a nine-yard gain. Ferguson got a generous spot for three yards and a first down.

Richard Stevens says he'd bench Ferguson and throw Epps out there.

I'm not so sure. I think they're going to the running backs too much or too many times in a row. Shades of Dan Dodd? I dunno, it's just not working.

John Mulchrone just caught his first pass from Kole McKamey for a mere two yards. Then McKamey was sacked for a two-yard loss. And the Lobos are punting. This defiitely was not the drive they needed after the Portland State touchdown.

It's the Vikings ball, first down on Portland State's 40-yard line with 7:05 left in the third quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 08:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sawyer Smith completed a pass to Brendan Ferrigno for 39 yards and a touchdown. New Mexico had looked strong on defense, but the pass was thrown right across the middle. The extra point was good, vaulting Portland State up 7-6 with 10:14 left in the third quarter.

I couldn't tell exactly who got burned, but it looked like the right Lobo.

This is where it really hurts to have settled for field goals instead of touchdowns.

Posted by ilimon at 08:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The running game got back on track fast. Rodney Ferguson started with a 21-yard run, followed by Martelius Epps with a nine-yard run. Not a bad start, but Ferguson couldn't pick up the one yard for a first down on the next play. He was stopped for no gain. He inched closer on the next play but was stopped within inches of the first down. It's officially no gain, but it looked a little like a gain. The Lobos went for it for the first time on fourth down. It was quarterback keeper, but it wasn't enough for a first down and Kole McKamey was stopped for no gain.

Good start, bad finish.

Posted by ilimon at 08:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It was kind of boring.

Aside from rapid-fire updating my blog, there wasn't as much excitement as I expected from the Bob Toledo era.

The receivers seemed to respond well, but it appeared Kole McKamey was a llittle rattled. He overthrew a bunch of passes.

I'll have more analysis for the end of the game because the Lobos are already back on the field.

Posted by ilimon at 08:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm letting Richard Stevens take over my blog instead of making the old guy start up his computer.

He said he didn't think the Lobos showed a whole lot of team speed on offense. They don't look like a fast team on offense at the moment. If you're gonna be big, you don't want to be big and slow. Kole McKamey was efficient but didn't wow you. The running backs looked fine when there were holes, but they didn't create anything. The Portland State defensive line is holding up pretty well.

Both teams looked like they didn't have a stud runner coming back.

The UNM defense did fine. They didn't make too many mistakes, but they're not the type of team that needs to be helping teams.

"It's early and you can't be too harsh the first game of the season," Stevens said. I swear he totally said it.

He said the Lobos applied pretty good pressure on Portland State and proved he can't roll out quite as much.

Nothing stood out to him for the special teams, although the group could use fewer penalties.

Now the Linz checks in:
"I thought it was nice of Bob Toledo to let Dan Dodd call the plays in the first half," he said. "One of the reasons Dodd was really conservative was because of the personnel they had. Now you can see that with Toledo running the offense there isn't much difference because of the guys they have here."

Posted by ilimon at 07:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The passing game is heating up, with Kole McKamey connecting big again with Marcus Smith. John Mulchrone has had a rough night though. McKamey keeps overthrowing him, and Mulchrone hasn't exactly hustled to get some in his neighborhood.

McKamey connected with Smith again and got a generous spot for seven yards. Then McKamey passed to Rodney Ferguson for five yards and the first down at the Portland State 43-yard line.

McKamey overthrew a tight pass to Brown, who would have had trouble getting to it before going out of bounds even if it had been on target. Then he overthrew Brown across the middle. That left the Lobos are facing third-and-10 at the 43 with 38 seconds remaining in the half.

McKamey fumbled under pressure, but it was recovered by Lobo Robert Turner. It's also ruled a sack, credited to Portland State's Adam Hayward, and caused a loss of 14 yards. Now the Lobos will be punting with 28 seconds left in the half.

Portland State took a fair catch at the 22-yard line with 18 seconds left. Viking Sawyer Smith completed a pass to Kenneth Mackins for 32 yards. On the final play of the half, DeAndre Wright intercepted a Smith pass.

The Lobos end the first half up 6-0.

Posted by ilimon at 07:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The defense definitely has found its footing now. The Lobos held Portland State to a one-yard rushing gain, then forced a two-yard loss on a screen pass. They ended the quick Vikings possession by pressuring an incomplete pass from Portland State's Sawyer Smith to Brendan Ferrigno.

Paul Baker has handled the punt returns. He hasn't bobbled the ball but also hasn't gained much. He returned this one for three yards, setting up a first-and-10 on the UNM 28-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 07:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kole McKamey opened strong with a 13-yard pass to Marcus Smith. Martelius Epps pulled off his first good run, gaining five yards. McKamey found Smith again, for 11 yards and another first down at the Portland State 28-yard line.

The holes seem to be closing up for Ferguson. He got a one-yard gain on the next play. Then the Lobos went to Ferguson again, and it looked like he sat down for no gain. They went to Ferguson again. He appeared to get five yards, then there was a flag on the Lobos for holding. No play, but I wonder why they went to Ferguson three times in a row. It was a 10-yard penalty, forcing third-and-19 on the 37-yard-line.

The Lobos succeeded with a little diversity in a McKamey 25-yard pass to Travis Brown. It was a Hank Baskett-esque catch and saved the UNM drive.

New Mexico went to Matt Quillen next, for another meek one--yard-gain. It seems like the air attack would be a much better option, but the Lobos are running an awful lot.

McKamey looked to throw on the next play, but ended up scrambling for a sack and three-yard loss. He connected with Smith for seven yards, but it set up a fourth-and-five on the seven yard line and the Lobos end up settling for another field goal.

Kenny Byrd converted on 24-yard field goal, pushing the Lobos up 6-0 with 4:06 remaining in the second quarter. The Lobos settled for a field goal when they should have gotten a touchdown for the second time this game.

Posted by ilimon at 07:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobo defense has put together a couple of good series now and seems to have found its footing. They had some good coverage on the latest drive and made Portland State go three-and-out. Of course, it doesn't hurt that quarterback Sawyer Smith has thrown some really bad passes.

Richard Stevens is sitting next to me and said, "This reminds me of the game I saw the other day at Milne Stadium." Kinda hard to argue when the Lobos' offense hasn't looked stellar.

Now the offense will get a chance to do something with good field position, starting on its 41st-yard-line.

Posted by ilimon at 07:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Quarterback Kole McKamey scrambled nine yards for a UNM first down after Paul Baker only gained two on a run and Matt Quillen dropped a wide open pass.

Rodney Ferguson was dropped for a loss, and it seems the Lobos may be going to him a little too much. McKamey completed a pass to Marcus Smith, then a last-second pass to Travis Brown. Now the team is stuck at fourth-and-five at the 44 yard line, so the Lobos are punting.

This offense isn't quite as exciting as it looked in practice. We're seeing flashes of good passes and runs, but it's not consistent. We'll see what happens as the game progresses.

Jordan Scott punted the ball for 20 yards, and it will be first-and-10 for Portland State on its 24-yard line. There's 11:26 remaining in the second quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 07:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos gave up a couple of decent runs, but they were able to hold Portland State on third-and-one. Portland State fumbled the ball on the snap, but quarterback Sawyer Smith recovered the ball for no loss or gain. The Vikings punted.

Now the Lobos called timeout with 11 seconds left in the first quarter. The Lobos are in position get great field position again to start the second quarter.

There was a flag on the punt return. It was an illegal block on New Mexico, so the ball will be spotted at the 26-yard line. The penalties are starting to pile up for the Lobos.

McKamey completed a pass to Marcus Smith for 11 yards, slipping in one last play with one second remaining in the first quarter. The Lobos will open the second quarter with a first-and-10 at the 40-yard-line.

So at the end of the first quarter, it's 3-0 Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 07:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This isn't last year's special teams unit. The Lobos were worst in the conference on kickoff return defense and were among the worst in the country as well.

The Lobos got down the field fast on the kickoff and Portland State picked up a penalty for an illegal block. Now the Vikings are stuck with first-and-10 at their own seven yard line.

Too bad the Lobos followed it up with back-to-back offsides penalties. I suppose you could chalk it up to nerves, but it's still not good.

Posted by ilimon at 07:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson rumbled for 14 yards on the first play, then Kole McKamey completed a 19-yard pass to Travis Brown across the middle of the field. This looks a lot more like the diverse Bob Toledo offense I expected.

Matt Quillen carried the ball for three yards, then McKamey slightly overthrew John Mulchrone again. McKamey passed to Brown under pressure, which lef the Lobos three yards short of a first down. The Lobos had to settle for a 29-yard field goal by Kenny Byrd.

The Lobos score, but it looked like they could have done more with such good field position. The score is now 3-0 New Mexico over Portland State.

Posted by ilimon at 06:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos swarmed better on the second drive, shutting down a run, collapsing quickly on screen pass and pressuring the quarterback. The Vikings were forced to go three-and-out, punting from their own 19-yard-line.

Tyson Ditmore seemed to be in more action and responded better on this possession. The Lobos now get to start on their own 47-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 06:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson is making a good debut, running well and getting the Lobos a 12-yard gain off of a screen pass from quarterback Kole McKamey. He has, however, been dropped for two losses. Perhaps the Lobos shouldn't go to him on every play.

McKamey overthrew an open pass across the middle intended to John Mulchrone. Could have been a touchdown, but it was way over Mulchrone's head. He scrambled on the next play for one yard, brining up fourth-and-10. It didn't look like an especially flashy opening drive for the Bob Toledo offense, but we'll see what happens later in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 06:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobo defense looked sloppy on the opening drive, over-pursuing Portland State and picking up a few penalties that bailed out the Vikings. Michael Tuohy had one near-interception and was in the neighborhood of another bad Sawyer Smith pass but couldn't convert. Portland State went for it on fourth-and-seven at the 29 yard line, but Smith overthrew the pass.

It's pretty clear wide receiver Brendan Ferrigno is Sawyer's favorite target.

Now let's see what New Mexico does. Rodney Ferguson got the first carry on offense, which he used for a six-yard gain.

Posted by ilimon at 06:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Running outta the tunnel. Crowd is slowly filling in the stadium and cheering. We just got a weather update. Forecast calls for 40 percent chance of rain.

Now for the coin toss. The Lobos won and deferred until the second half. The team is now kneeling for a huddle in the south end zone and heading toward the sideline.

Oddly enough, there's no UNM logo at midfield. Not sure why that's not there, but it's time for kickoff.

Check back for more updates ...

Posted by ilimon at 06:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

There's some amazing college football going on today.

How crazy is it to see Montana State knock off Colorado 19-10? I don't think that bodes well for Colorado State, which handled Weber State pretty easily. The Buffs are going to be pumped for that game after getting stunned in the opener. Give the Rams credit for not overlooking a Division I-AA opponent.

Tennessee also looks poised to knock off California, but Florida has come roaring back to take back control of its game against Southern Miss. It's nice to start the first week of college football with a little drama.

Posted by ilimon at 06:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm settled in here at University Stadium and the crowd is slooowly trickling into University Stadium for the Lobos' season opener against Portland State. New Mexico are notoriously late for games, lingering longer in tailgate lots then rushing the gates minutes before kickoff. And with the no re-entry policy, they may be getting all the food and drink they can get before they find their seats.

The field looks good and it's a beautiful day. Sunny with a nice breeze, but there are some gray clouds way off in the distance. The National Weather Service was predicting rain tonight, and lots of people brought rain coats just in case.

The UNM band just wrapped up the national anthem and the Lobos will be taking the field soon. Stay tuned for more updates.

Posted by ilimon at 06:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I wrote a story today about Shawn Tillman, a fascinating guy who walked on to the UNM football team. Tillman is a Del Norte grad who spent four years in Army, inclduing 14 months stationed in Iraq. Then he returned to Albuquerque and enrolled at UNM for the spring semester and walked on to the football team. He's a 24-year-old freshman who has overcome a lot of obstacles and is learning the Lobo position. He also plays a regular safety on the scout team.

Posted by ilimon at 02:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

We had an error in today's Tribune. The Lobos matchup with Portland State will be broadcast on the Mountain, which is available on television via Comcast's digital classic tier. I have since corrected the error on our Web site, but I wanted to make sure print readers visiting my blog got the message.

It will, however, be tough to catch the game at sports bars because most of them don't have digital cable and it would cost the larger venues about $500 to add the service. Here's the story I wrote about the bars and restaurants adjusting to the Lobos' new TV deal.

I just confirmed with UNM officials that today's game will not be streamed on the Internet. CSTV games and games not picked up by either CSTV or the Mountain should be available in the future. Sorry for all the confusion, but here's a story I wrote earlier this week with some comments from Mountain West Conference Commissioner Craig Thompson about streaming games. His relevant remarks are at the end under the heading, Internet options.

Fans outside of the area can listen to the pregame, live game coverage and postgame for free at KKOB-AM (770). Click on the listen live link on the upper right side and enter some basic information about yourself to gain access. Mike Roberts and Greg Remington will be your eyes on the scene during the game. There's also an audio link at www.golobos.com, but the folks at KKOB told me their feed will be free of charge, so it seems like that might be the best way to go. You also can view it via a game tracker at CSTV's Web site. And finally, you can visit Lobo Zone for blog and scoreboard updates. And check back with us after the game for a postgame story and blog update from the Linz.

If you are in the Albuquerque area, you also can listen to The Red Menace's postgame show on KKNS-AM (1310). The show isn't streamed on the Internet, so you have to be within the regular radio listening range to catch it.

Posted by ilimon at 02:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Mountain, CSTV's new network devoted to Mountain West Conference athletics, is on the air. I'm catching it as we speak on Comcast Channel 276, a channel on the digital classic tier.

The Mountain had a countdown clock ticking down the seconds to its scheduled launch at 7 p.m. Then the screen went black for about 10 seconds. Next you could hear music but had no picture. About five seconds later, the network made its debut with a long video promoting the new network. The video featured footage of all nine Mountain West Conference schools. At least one of the stock images was of Lobos coach Rocky Long cheering after a key play.

After the video, the network's first show on the air was "The Mountain View." The show is slated to preview all Mountain West Conference games this weekend. It began with an analysis of Colorado State's season opener against Weber State, the early game on the Mountain. The analysis included heavy emphasis on Kyle Bell, who tore his ACL this week and is out for the season.

New Mexico was up next on the broadcast, with a live shot from Albuquerque and Universiity Stadium. The analysts praised Kole McKamey for his experience and called Quincy Black one of the best linebackers in the conference.

I'll post more updates as the broadcast continues ...

Posted by ilimon at 07:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Today we unveiled the print edition of Lobo Zone. The paper format offers tons of graphics that aren't online, but you can see a lot of our features online at lobozone.com.

Here's a run down of what we've got:
A story on Kole McKamey, who is entering his senior season and his last chance to realize his dreams of leading the Lobos to a championship and bowl win.

A story on the way Bob Toledo has developed relationships with his quarterbacks. He calls himself more of a teacher than just a coach.

Columnist Richard Stevens offers his season preview and asks which Lobos team will show up this year.

A different take on the traditional question and answer session called in his words. In this issue, we have Marcus Smith's speaking about a variety of topics, but we leave out the questions and just let him speak. I think it's pretty cool.

A story on Portland State linebacker Adam Hayward, who is looking to mend a broken heart just by showing up at University Stadium Saturday.

Analysis of who's on the spot this game for both the Lobos and Portland State.

Lobo game notes and Mountain West Conference game notes.

A feature catching up with ex-Lobo Terrance Mathis.

Then we've got the answers to our Ask the Coach questions posed by Trib readers. You can find the print one listed here, or listen to coach Rocky Long answer all the questions posed by readers.

And finally, you can listen the pregame podcast Richard Stevens and I did breaking down the Lobos game against Portland State.

I'm happy with what the Trib staff was able to put together for today, but I think it gets even better on game day. We'll have tons of blog updates, the scoreboard will constantly be updated on the front page of the Trib's Web site and Lobozone.com. Then we'll have a postgame story and the Linz's take on his blog. If that's not enough, check back on Sunday for a photo slideshow and more audio features.

I know it's a lot to digest, but let know what you think of all of this stuff the Trib is throwing your way. If you have any thoughts or suggestions, we'd love to hear them.

Posted by ilimon at 01:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)