The UNM women's basketball team made it from back from Oklahoma City by way of Denver very late last night, but coach Don Flanagan will be spending New Year's Eve alone in Amarillo after attempting to drive home from Oklahoma City.

Flanagan said the road got icey around Amarillo and he thinks several wrecks caused highway patrolmen to close the road that had briefly re-opened. The players didn't exactly have it easy coming home. Their bags, which included all their practice gear, didn't arrive with them last night. Four players' cars also were stuck in the ice and snow and could not be moved last night.

The team will practice Monday at 2 p.m.

"There's no way we could have practiced today anyway," Flanagan said. "I'm pretty sure we can get back on track tomorrow."

That's all for now. Check out Monday's Tribune for more women's basketball news.

Posted by ilimon at 03:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos faced a tough trip home after an ugly visit to Oklahoma.

UNM coach Don Flanagan said it all came down to confidence -- his team's lack of poise and Oklahoma star Courtney Paris' decision to dominant the game. His plan was to guard her inside post move because she forced up bad shots going toward the paint last year. Turns out she fixed that problem during the summer and torched the Lobos for 43 points. UNM still could have made a game of it if the team had hit open shots. The good news is the Lobos won't face a hoops beast like that again until the NCAA Tournament.

The Lobos were attempting to fly back Albuquerque with one stop in Denver. Coach Don Flanagan was spending the night in Oklahoma City, then driving back. He hopes I-40 will be open at the Texas-New Mexico border by the time he gets there. He didn't try last night since all the hotel rooms in Amarillo were booked. He hopes to hold a practice tonight and definitely will have the team practice Monday and Tuesday morning before hitting the road for Wyoming -- another potentially icey trek.

I'll have another update later this afternoon and more women's basketball news in Monday's Tribune.

Posted by ilimon at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos faced a tough trip home after an ugly visit to Oklahoma.

UNM coach Don Flanagan said it all came down to confidence -- his team's lack of poise and Oklahoma star Courtney Paris' decision to dominant the game. His plan was to guard her inside post move because she forced up bad shots going toward the paint last year. Turns out she fixed that problem during the summer and torched the Lobos for 43 points. UNM still could have made a game of it if the team had hit open shots. The good news is the Lobos won't face a hoops beast like that again until the NCAA Tournament.

The Lobos were attempting to fly back Albuquerque with one stop in Denver. Coach Don Flanagan was spending the night in Oklahoma City, then driving back. He hopes I-40 will be open at the Texas-New Mexico border by the time he gets there. He didn't try last night since all the hotel rooms in Amarillo were booked. He hopes to hold a practice tonight and definitely will have the team practice Monday and Tuesday morning before hitting the road for Wyoming -- another potentially icey trek.

I'll have another update later this afternoon and more women's basketball news in Monday's Tribune.

Posted by ilimon at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos faced a tough trip home after an ugly visit to Oklahoma.

UNM coach Don Flanagan said it all came down to confidence -- his team's lack of poise and Oklahoma star Courtney Paris' decision to dominant the game. His plan was to guard her inside post move because she forced up bad shots going toward the paint last year. Turns out she fixed that problem during the summer and torched the Lobos for 43 points. UNM still could have made a game of it if the team had hit open shots. The good news is the Lobos won't face a hoops beast like that again until the NCAA Tournament.

The Lobos were attempting to fly back Albuquerque with one stop in Denver. Coach Don Flanagan was spending the night in Oklahoma City, then driving back. He hopes I-40 will be open at the Texas-New Mexico border by the time he gets there. He didn't try last night since all the hotel rooms in Amarillo were booked. He hopes to hold a practice tonight and definitely will have the team practice Monday and Tuesday morning before hitting the road for Wyoming -- another potentially icey trek.

I'll have another update later this afternoon and more women's basketball news in Monday's Tribune.

Posted by ilimon at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I tried making the trip from my family's home in El Paso to Oklahoma City but got stuck in San Antonio. We tried landing in Dallas twice, but were sent back San Antonio. Eventually I was just sent back to El Paso because there was no way I could make it to Oklahoma City by tipoff. The women's basketball team barely got out of Dallas before tornadoes and thunderstorms slammed the area.

I'm listening on the radio and doing some postgame interviews by phone, so you can check the blog for updates.

Posted by ilimon at 12:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The wheels have come off the Lobos' offense. UNM fumbled again and San Jose State took over with the chance to mount a long drive and end the game.

I'm heading down to the sidelines a little early to get postgame interviews. Check out Lobo Zone soon for complete postgame coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 05:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

UNM's defense stopped the bleeding, holding back San Jose State. Now UNM's offense must score.

Posted by ilimon at 05:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson is back in and passed to Marcus Smith for a 12-yard gain. Nelson went to Smith again for a 17-yard gain, quickly advancing to the Spartans' 44-yard line. Rodney Ferguson ran for a loss of three on the next play. Nelson's pass was complete to Ferguson for a gain of 11 on the play. It brought up third-and-three at the 37-yard line. Ferguson rushed for three yards and a first down.

Nelson's next pass to Marcus Smith in the end zone was incomplete. Ferguson was dropped for a two-yard loss on the next play, bringing up third-and-12 at the Spartans 35. The next pass was complete to Ferguson, but he fumbled leaping for more yards. The ball was forced by Matt Castelo and recovered by Damaja Jones.

Posted by ilimon at 05:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright nearly intercepted Adam Tafralis' pass, forcing the Spartans to punt.

UNM ran the punt back to its 27-yard line.

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

Adam Tafralis' first pass was complete to James Jones for a gain of 12 yards. The sun is setting at University Stadium and on the Lobos' shot at a win if they don't do something soon.

Patrick Perry carried on the next play for a gain of eight yards, another quick blow for UNM's defense. There was a flag on the next play, with San Jose State called for false start. It brought up second-and-six at the Spartans' 42. James Jones carried on the next play for a gain of three yards. All those other third downs were huge, but this is gigantic. Both teams have time to mull it over with the end of the third quarter.

Posted by ilimon at 04:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright returned the kickoff from the goal line to the 29-yard line. I think this is a huge possession for UNM.

Chris Nelson is still in the game and holding onto the ball too long. UNM was called for a holding penalty as the line tried to protect him. It brought up first-and-20 at the UNM 19. Rodney Ferguson ran for 10 yards on the play, bringing up second-and-10. Nelson's ass was complete to Marcus Smith, but it was erased thanks to a flag on the play. UNM was called for holding again, bringing up second-and-20 at the UNM 19.

San Jose State pancaked a UNM receiver and another player intercepted the ball and returned it for a touchdown. The play was reversed when the Spartans were called for pass intereference. It brought up first-and-10 at the UNM 35.

Ferguson ran for three yards. Chris Nelson tried to fire more quickly and threw behind Travis Brown, hitting the ref instead. Not good. I think it's well past time to put Donovan Porterie back in the game. Nelson's next pass intended for John Mulchrone was thrown behind him and fell incomplete.

UNM punted and San Jose State took a fair catch at the 26-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 04:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM's defense forced a third-and-two, but Adam Tafralis passed to John Broussard for a gain of 11 yards as the pocket collapsed around him. Then Tafralis passed to James Jones, who made a great leaping catch for a 24-yard touchdown.

The Lobos may be the comeback kids, but they need to step on the gas quick to rescue this game.

Posted by ilimon at 04:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chris Nelson's pass intended to Marcus Smith was nearly picked off and UNM was called for offensive pass interference. It brought up first-and-25 at the UNM 18. Nelson threw out of bounds under pressure on the next play. Nelson's next pass was complete to Rodney Ferguson, and he worked for a 10-yard gain. It brought up third-and-16 at the UNM 27. Nelson danced all over the field with a lot of protection and was dropped for no gain. His scramble earned some boos from UNM fans who are frustrated by UNM's struggling offense.

There was a flag on the punt play, with illegal participation called against San Jose State. It was a 15-yard penalty and UNM had a shot to extends its drive. Nelson carried, fumbled and recovered but was inches short of a first down.

San Jose State took over at teh UNM 43 on downs.

Posted by ilimon at 04:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It looks like the UNM defense is going to have to make something happen to jumpstart UNM's tepid scoring.

AdamTafralis' pass to John Broussard was incomplete. San Jose State was called for false start on the next play, setting up second-and-15 at the Spartans' 32. Tafralis' next pass was complete to James Jones for a gain of 10 yards. It brings up third-and-five for San Jose State. It would help the Lobos a ton if they could get a stop here.

Tafralis tucked and ran, but Herbert Felder stopped him after a four-yard gain and short of a first down.

The Spartans went for it on fourth-and-one at their 46. There was a flag on the next play, and San Jose State was called for false start. The penaly moved the Spartans back five yards and forced them to punt.

The punt went out of bounds and UNM will take over at its 33-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 04:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Senior backup Chris Nelson came in at quarterback and handed off to Rodney Ferguson, who gained four yards. The play was erased on a holding call, but it seemed like San Jose State was guilty of face mask. It brought up second-and-16 at the UNM 21.

Nelson's first pass was complete to Marcus Smith for a gain of two yards. It brought up a big third-and-14 at the UNM 23. His pass to Travis Brown was incomplete, in part because Brown wans't moving toward the ball.

UNM was forced to punt again.

San Jose State will start its next drive at its 37-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 04:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM kicked off for a touchback to open the second half. Steven Hutchison sacked Adam Tafralis on the opening play for a loss of eight yards. Tafralis tried an option pitch Yonus Davis to but was forced out for another loss of four yards.

Tafralis broke off a 19-yard run, but the Spartans still face fourth-and-three. The Spartans punted and Thomas Wilson ran it back seven yards to the UNM 27.

Posted by ilimon at 04:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenny Byrd notched a touchback.

Yonus Davis carried for San Jose State for no gain, and the teams headed into the locker room for halftime.

UNM trails the Spartans 13-3.

Posted by ilimon at 03:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM opened the drive on its 20-yard line.

Paul Baker rushed for nine yards on the first play, a speedy carrier who seemed to surprise the Spartans. Rodney Ferguson ran on the next play up the middle for 35 yards. Baker carried again for nine more yards. Yimin Bauman carried for two yards and a first down.

Donovan Porterie's screen pass to Paul Baker was incomplete, which was probably for the best because Baker was surrounded by Spartans. Ferguson carried again for two yards, bringing up third-and-eight at the UNM 23.

The Lobos called a timeout to set up for the next big play. I think they need to get a field goal out of this possession. Porterie's pass intended for John Mulchrone sailed high, setting up a Kenny Byrd punt. He nailed the 40-yarder, giving UNM its first points of the day.

Posted by ilimon at 03:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Yonus Davis rushed for 13 yards on the first a first down. With the play, he went over 1,000 yards rushing for the season. Davis carried again but was stopped by Jeremiah Lovato for no gain. Adam Tafralis threw under pressure and it seemed the ball would sail high, but James Jones pulled it in for a 19-yard gain. James Callier rushed for one yard.

Tafralis' next pass to Jones was complete for a 36-yard touchdown. The Spartans missed the extra point wide right, and went ahead 13-0 with 3:59 left in the first half.

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

Donovan Porterie's first pass to Travis Brown was incomplete, a few steps ahead of him. Porterie's pass to Thomas Wilson was complete for a one yard gain. It brought up a quick third-and-nine. Porterie's next pass intended for Brown was incomplete, sailing high again and off the mark.

The Lobos punted again, and it was downed bt UNM at the Spartans' 31-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 03:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos defense came out angry, forcing an incomplete pass. Then they knocked receiver James Collier back for a three-yard loss. Then Adam Tafralis' next pass was incomplete. He got hit on all three plays.

San Jose State was forced to punt. It was fielded by Blake Ligon and he downed it at the UNM 32.

Posted by ilimon at 03:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

DeAndre Wright responded for the Lobos, running back the kickoff 60 yards to the Spartans' 40-yard line.

Rodney Ferguson ran on the first play of the drive for no gain. Porterie threw a screen pass to Ferguson under pressure for a gain of 15 yards to the Spartans' 16-yard line.

Matt Quillen carried for one yard on the next play. Ferguson carried next for a gain of one yard, bringing up third-and-eight. Porterie's next pass was complete to Travis Brown for a 10-yard gain and a big first down for the Lobos.

Ferguson carried on the next play for a loss of one yard, bringing up second-and-11 at hte 14. Porterie completed a screen pass to Yimin Bauman for a gain of 11 yards. This more of Bauman than we've seen all year. Ferguson carried for two yards on the next play, giving UNM second-and-goal at the one.

The Spartans were called for illegal substitution penalty, but the ball moved an inch forward for UNM off the flag. Ferguson ran into a big old pile, and lost one yard. Ferguson tried again and was dropped for no gain. It brought up a big third-and-goal at the two. San Jose State had to call timeout because they had some substitution trouble.

Ferguson fumbled, it was recovered by Demaja Jones. He ran it back to the UNM 43-yard line, where Jones was tackled by Ferguson to save a touchdown. Porterie tried to trip up Jones earlier but failed.

Posted by ilimon at 03:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Opps. San Jose State broke the stalemate, with Adam Tafralis hitting wide open John Broussard for a 76-yard touchdown. The extra point was good, giving the Spartans a 7-0 lead with 14:51 left in the second quarter.

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

Rodney Ferguson rushed for six yards, then stumbled for a one-yard gain on the next play. It brought up third-and-three at the UNM 47. Donovan Porterie's pass intended for Thomas Wilson was dropped, ending a drive that squandered the Lobos' best field position of the day.

UNM punted and San Jose State took a fair catch at the Spartans' 24-yard line.

The first quarter just ended, and it's been a punt fest. The Lobos had 63 yards and four first downs in the first quarter, wile San Jose State had 16 yards and one first down.

Posted by ilimon at 03:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Adam Tafralis' first pass was complete to John Broussard for a gain of 14 yards on the play, eliminating the chance of a safety. Patrick Perry carried on the next play for one yard, moving the ball to the Spartans 22. Tafralis threw under pressure to James Jones, and it was knocked down by Glover Quin. The play brought up third-and-nine at the Spartans' 22. Tafralis carried on the play for a gain of four yards, setting up the punt.

I wonder if that quarterback keeper ever works for long yardage. It hasn't against the Lobos.

Thomas Wilson returned the punt for 11 yards to the UNM 40, the Lobos best field position of the day.

Posted by ilimon at 03:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rodney Ferguson ran for eight yards straight up the middle on the first play. Ferguson carried again for three yards and a first down, going up the middle again. Then UNM went with a two receiver set on the left side, and Ferguson ran right behind the guys as blockers up to the San Jose State 49-yard line. It was a gain of 20 yards.

Donovan Porterie's pass to Marcus Smith was incomplete, about one step ahead of the receiver who would have scored if it were on target. Porterie's next pass was complete to tight end Yimin Bauman for four yards, bringing up third-and-six. Porterie completed his next pass to Smith in zone coverage for a gain of 15 yards despite three Spartans surrounding Smith.

Ferguson was set to pass back to a quarterback for a trick play, but it was broken up and fell incomplete. The Lobos were fortunate it was not picked off. Porterie scrambled and threw out of bounds on the next play, bringing up third-and-10 at the San Jose State 30. Porterie was sacked on the next play for a loss of seven. It knocked UNM jsut out of field goal range.

Jordan Scott hit a perfect punt, forcing the Spartans take over at their seven-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 02:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

San Jose State jumped offsides and was pushed back five yards. Then the Spartans gained on yard on a rushing play. Quarterback Adam Tafralis kept the ball on the next play for a four-yard gain, bringing up third-and-10. Tafralis' pass was complete to James Jones for five yards, but it was well short of a first down and forced the Spartans to punt.

Waylon Prather is living up to his top billing so far. He booted the ball 54 yards for a touchback.

Posted by ilimon at 02:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM started on the 34-yard line.

Donovan Porterie completed his first pass to Travis Brown for a gain of five yards. Then Brown carried on the next play and was dropped for a loss of three yards. It looked like Porterie's next pass to Travis Brown was intercepted by Dwight Lowery, but it was ruled incomplete and the Lobos punted.

Now it seems San Jose State's defense is at least part of the reason the Lobos' passing game is struggling early.

Jordan Scott shanked the punt and the Spartans will start on their 41-yard line.

Posted by ilimon at 02:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Quincy Black stopped San Jose State's James Jones after a six-yard return, letting the Spartans start on their 21-yard line.

San Jose State started with the run, with Yonus Davis rushing for four yards. Jacob French carried next, this time gaining two yards. It brought up third and four. Quincy Black laid a pretty good hit on Spartans QB Adam Tafralis, who overthrew his receiver and adjusted his helmet getting up.

The Spartans laid out a good punt for 61 yards, but Thomas Wilson worked hard for a 22-yard return.

Posted by ilimon at 02:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos got a nice start on their 35-yard line. Rodney Ferguson stumbled for one yard on the first play, then rushed for 10 yards and a first down. Donovan Porterie first throw was incomplete, then cornerback Ian Clark threw on a trick play but couldn't connect with Marcus Smith. Clark was a high school quarterback and this is just one of several trick plays Lobos' lame duck offensive coordinator Bob Toledo has up his sleeve. Porterie's pass to Travis Brown on third-and-10 was short, forcing the Lobos to punt.

It was a quick series, so it's hard to tell whether Porterie needs to just shake off jitters or the San Jose State pass defense is that good.

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

It's a beautiful clear, crisp day at University Stadium, with lovely snow-capped mountains in the background. It's a real pretty picture for ESPN.

The Lobos are receiving the kickoff. Stay tuned for updates ...

Posted by ilimon at 02:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It was a sloppy game, but the Lobos still overpowered Northern Arizona. The Lumberjacks pulled within six points several times, but UNM came up with enough layups and free throws to protect the lead. Check out Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 08:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

UNM is relying on defense and steady free-throw shooting to claim a 13-point halftime lead over Northern Arizona, but the Lumberjacks are no slouches. They run their offense well and are capable of a comeback if the Lobos go into a slump. I'm sure UNM coach Don Flanagan will continue his recent call for the team to run its offense better in the second half.

Julie Briody leads all scorers with 10 points, while Timi E-Nunu leads the Lobos in rebounding with five. Angela Hartill is leading UNM with three assists. E-Nunu is playing strong defense, while Hartill continues to drive and look for her shot.

UNM is shooting 44 percent from the field, 17 percent from 3-point range and 83 percent from the free-throw line.

NAU is shooting 35 percent from the field, 40 percent from 3-point range and have not hit a free throw.

Mike Hall, of the Journal, says hello.

In other MWC news tonight, TCU knocked of No. 17 Depaul 74-73, a game that will help the Mountain West Conference's lagging RPI.

Posted by ilimon at 07:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

A few UNM football notes. The Lobos had a 45-minute practice this morning after school officials used snow plows to clear one field. The offense practiced on the southern end and the offense worked out on the northern end of the same field. One snowman was quietly created on the sidelines during practice but was crushed. Afterward, senior Curtis Pino led the Lobos in a snowball fight. The team also used tackling dummies as sleds, sliding down a pristine patch of snow on the hills separating the upper and lower practice fields.

Everyone was at practice and there were no injuries to report. Jake Bowe is recovering from a concussion he suffered last week, but he can practice without contact and has been cleared to play Saturday.

San Jose State arrived Wednesday afternoon and was greeted at its team hotel by mariachis, a treat the Lobos also enjoyed. The teams had a kickoff dinner at El Pinto. The main event was a green chile cookoff. Robert Turner and Bo Greer helped the loaded Lobos lineup win the top green chile dish, but the team lose style points on dancing. I suspect it was a ploy to just call it a tie and settle it all on game day.

I'll have an update shortly with UNM commitment list, being that today was junior college signing day. There are six guys who got their letters of intent in today and two more expected tomorrow.

Posted by ilimon at 08:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Horned Frogs are making the Mountain West Conference look good, with a 14-0 halftime lead over Northern Illinois in the Poinsettia Bowl. TCU was favored to win this game, which could draw a decent amount of TV viewers because there isn't a whole lot on TV right now and it's the first bowl game of the season.

Posted by ilimon at 07:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I'm in Albuquerque swamped with bowl game coverage, so our ace high school reporter James Staley is down in Las Cruces with the Lobos. He will be providing a halftime update on his blog and postgame coverage.

Posted by ilimon at 06:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The UNM football team practiced for an hour this morning despite steady snowfall.

It was freezing, with winds gusting up to 60 miles per hour and the temperature hovering around 32 degrees. Most of the players danced to stay warm, but UNM coach Rocky Long said they made the most of their practice time. Long did cut the practice half an hour short, but he said he only had eliminate one-on-one drills and UNM was still able to get most of its game plan work in during the hour. He said most coaches would have called off practice with so many bowl workouts under their belt, but he previously was an assistant coach at Wyoming and said the weather was relatively mild.

"They were focused and did a good job out here," he said. "This is good for us. It could be like this on game day, so we'll be ready."

Even if UNM's pending indoor practice facility was open, Long said the Lobos would have spent about 25 minutes outside just in case game day conditions were just as blustery.

The forecast calls for the Lobos to battle snow and cold temperatures most of the week.

"It was so cold out there, but it makes us tougher," junior wide receiver Marcus Smith said.

San Jose State gets to town Wednesday and only practices here Thursday afternoon and does a walk-through Friday, so they will only get a limited taste of the winter weather.

No one missed today's practice. Junior linebacker Major Mosley was back and giddy. His wife gave birth to a baby boy at 4:57 p.m. Monday. His name is Major Mosley IV and he weighs six pounds and four ounces. Bo Greer's girlfriend is due with their son Wednesday.

That's all for now. Check out Wednesday's Tribune for more UNM football and New Mexico Bowl news.

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

I haven't had many blog updates lately because it's been, umm, busy on the football beat.

Today was probably the last warm football practice the Lobos will see this week. When I talked with UNM coach Rocky Long, though, we did figure UNM is 1-0 playing in snow during his tenure.

The Lobos were a little sloppy after having the weekend off, but it's natural rust as they begin putting together their game plan.

Junior Major Mosley missed practice today because his was wife was having a baby. He is expecting a son and plans to name him Major Mosley III. Bo Greer's girlfiend also is expecting a baby this week. Long said he thinks it's the first two players have had babies on the way the same week. Greer's given name is Royce Greer. His grandfather's name was Bo, and he has been nicknamed Bo since he was a kid. He said he will name his son Royce Greer and make sure he goes by Royce. "I want someone to get to use that name," he said.

Redshirt freshman quarterback Donovan Porterie said his ankle is still feeling good, and he felt comfortable running the Lobos' game plan Monday. "We made some mistakes, but I think we had some good moments and things will start clicking as we practice it more and more," Porterie said.

I also caught up with San Jose State quarterback Adam Tafralis, who said things have been going well for the Spartans. The team took some time off after its last game, which landed one week later than the Lobos' finale against San Diego State. He said he is preparing for a pretty intense UNM defense. "I think we're going to have to cut down on the mistakes we made all year to win this game," he said. "But I think we've made a lot of progress and we'll be ready."

That's all for now. Check out Tuesday's Tribune for more football and New Mexico Bowl news.

Posted by ilimon at 04:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I just got back from the UNM football banquet, which, as always, was a nice night for the team to recognize a season worth of accomplishments. The following awards were voted on by the players, with the exception of the Red Menace Fan Appreciation:

Most Valuable Offensive Scouts:
WR Chris Hernandez (Las Cruces) and QB Bryan Clampitt (Dallas)

Most Valuable Defensive Scout:
LB Beau Hightower (Albuquerque)

Red Menace Fan Appreciation Award:
TE Curtis Pino (Albuquerque)

Chuck Cummings Award - Most Inspirational Player:
TE Curtis Pino

Outstanding Offensive Lineman:
OG Robert Turner (Austin, Texas)

Zia Award - Most Valuable New Mexico Player:
K Kenny Byrd (Albuquerque)

Clyde Hill Award - Most Improved Player:
WR Marcus Smith (San Diego) and QB Donovan Porterie (Port Arthur, Texas)

Outstanding Special Teams Player:
K Kenny Byrd

Lobo Club Award - Unselfish Devotion to Team:
Lobo Ben Wysong (Tijeras)

Col. HJ Golightly Award - Most Valuable Defensive Player:
Lobo Quincy Black (Chicago)

Reese Hill Award - Most Valuable Offensive Player:
TB Rodney Ferguson (Albuquerque)

Bill Brannin Award - MVP:
TB Rodney Ferguson (Albuquerque)

Check out the Tribune and this blog for more about the banquet and the team.

Posted by ilimon at 11:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Well, Bob Toledo will be back to coach the bowl game but the Lobos practiced without him today. I have a story with the latest details on Toledo's move to Tulane from coach Rocky Long, which you can find at this link. And here's the latest Associated Press story from New Orleans, where Toledo was introduced this afternoon as the newest leader of the Green Wave.

Senior quarterback Kole McKamey, who is petitioning for a sixth year of eligibility and obviously will be hardest hit by working for yet another new offensive coordinator, was not at practice today. I can't say that I blame him for taking some time to mull over his future. Long asked that the returning guys not give any interviews until Wednesday, giving them some time to let Toledo's departure sink in a little bit.

Practice went on as usual. Chris Mark left early with a concussion, but otherwise there was a full regular lineup of players. Rocky Long, Dan Dodd and Bob Stanley took turns calling the plays for the UNM offense. This is the only practice Toledo is expected to miss leading up to the bowl game.

The seniors leave each bowl practice 45 minutes to an hour early, then the returning players get to do some heavy hitting and scrimmaging. The scout team members get to work on the UNM offense and defense instead of studying what opposing teams are doing. The guys get real excited about the chance to play so much, and that didn't change with today's news.

Off on a separate practice field, the kickers and punters finished their workouts and decided to indulge in a game of touch football. "Normally we have to come and watch practice, but it was way too cold to just stand around," senior kicker Kenny Byrd said. "We decided to just play around since no one needed us. It was good exercise." No one kept score and Byrd was the quarterback the whole time, assuring UNM's top kicker wasn't hurt during the game.

That's all for today. Check out Tuesday's Tribune for more UNM football news.

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

UNM moved up to No. 22 in the latest Associated Press Top 25 poll and could get more attention in this week's coaches poll. We'll find out when the big results are released Wednesday.

Senior guard Julie Briody was named Mountain West Conference co-player of the week after leading UNM to four wins in seven days.

Junior forward Dionne Marsh has been named one of 50 preseason candidates for the Naismith Trophy, which honors the top player in college basketball.

And ESPN's Charli Creme has projected the Lobos to win the Mountain West Conference in his first, insanely early round of bracketology. The only problem is the Lobos get a dreaded eight seed in the Austin bracket, which means they would face a No. 1 seed in the second round. That monster of a No. 1 seed would be Oklahoma. The good news is UNM has plenty of time to get out of the kiss of death 8-9 game.

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

An official in the Tulane athletics department just confirmed UNM offensive coordinator Bob Toledo will be taking the Tulane head coaching job. Toledo will be introduced at press conference at 5:30 tonight.

UNM athletics director Paul Krebs confirmed Toledo interviewed at Tulane this weekend but would not say whether Toledo was offered the job.

ESPN.com also is reporting Toledo was hired to take over the Tulane football program, citing anonymous sources.

It is unclear whether Toledo will coach the Lobos during the bowl game.

I'll have a full story posted shortly at Lobo Zone. Stay tuned for more updates throughout the day.

Posted by ilimon at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Julie Briody's seven points helped UNM take control of the game and claim a big win.

Check Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 09:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

UNM is pulling away from UCLA thanks in part to a late 7-0 run by Julie Briody, who finally found her shot from the outside and also drove well to the basket. The Lobos need one last push to close out a very entertaining game.

Posted by ilimon at 09:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It has been an all out war, with a little bit of inconsistent officiating thrown in to make it even more exciting. UNM coach Don Flanagan was slapped with a technical, but it seemed like the Bruins fell apart right afterward and picked up a slew of fouls. The biggest was on Noel Quinn, the obvious team leader for UCLA, who has four fouls.

Posted by ilimon at 09:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos' outside shots still look a little off, but UNM has extended its one-point halftime lead and is flying all over the place on every possession.

Posted by ilimon at 09:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Stay tuned for updates.

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

This has been a great game so far, with UCLA and UNM tradiing some pretty impressive blows.

UNM went cold from long-range, and UCLA went on an 11-0 run. The Lobos stayed calm and mounted a 10-2 run to get back in the game. The teams traded blows late in the first half to the lead at the half.

UNM is shooting 50 percent from the field but just 18.2 percent from 3-point range. UCLA is shooting 53.6 percent from the field and 33 percent from beyond the arc.

The Bruins are out-rebounded UNM 20-10 overall and 7-3 on the offensive board.

Dionne Marsh leads the Lobos with 13 points, while Lindsey Pluimer leads the Bruins with 10 points.

UNM has alternated a 2-3 zone and man-to-man defense but has struggled to rebound out of the zone and close out inside, giving Pluimer a lot of easy looks.

It should be a real interesting second half. The crowd got fired up during the Lobos' late first-half rally and seemed to rattle UCLA bit. We'll see if fatigue or nerves become a factor for the Bruins in the second half.

Posted by ilimon at 08:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UCLA went on an 11-0 run, but the Lobos just started a surge and cut the Bruins' lead to five points.

Posted by ilimon at 08:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Dionne Marsh leads the Lobos with eight points and seems unstoppable in the paint.

Posted by ilimon at 08:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM is playing good defense in a 2-3 zone, but the Lobos shots aren't falling. The team is struggling from the field for the first time in six games. Dionne Marsh, however, is doing well inside and has four of the Lobos' six points.

Posted by ilimon at 08:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Stay tuned for updates.

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

The Lobos absolutely pounded Sam Houston State and had fun doing it. Check out Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 09:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM is now up 67-24 on Sam Houston State with 6:06 left in the game. Brandi Kimble is the latest Lobo to step up. She has been all over the floor and has 12 points.

Posted by ilimon at 09:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM threw its starters back in for a set play with four seconds left in the half, and it nearly worked. Brandi Kimble's bomb from a little past NBA 3-point range was just a little hard off the back rim.

This was a clinic for the Lobos and every player on the roster got into the game. Julie Briody leads all scorers with 11 points and nearly outscored Sam Houston State. Dionne Marsh has eight points, Katie Montgomery added six and Georonika Jackson came off the bench for a career-high five points.

Coach Don Flanagan was a little upset he couldn't get Jackson's attention while she was working as the team's point guard, but otherwise it was a pretty impressive first half.

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

UNM now has four freshmen and a sophomore on the floor, giving its bench tons of the time. The reserves are playing strong defense and getting good looks at the basket. This one got way out of hand fast.

Posted by ilimon at 08:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mike Hall, of the Journal, says hi boys and girls. He wants to remind everyone he's a Trib alum before crossing over to the Journal. We're a little punchy since this game got so ugly so fast.

Dionne Marsh has eight points and Julie Briody has the previously mentioned eight to lead the Lobos. We could see a whole lotta freshman tonight.

Posted by ilimon at 08:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

My computer connection is a little slow, but the Lobos aren't. Julie Briody already has 11 points.

Posted by ilimon at 08:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I was on the road returning from the UNM women's basketball team's game at Arizona Wednesday, so I missed the football team's practice. I'll have more UNM and New Mexico Bowl news and notes tomorrow, so check back soon.

Posted by ilimon at 08:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

They were pretty impressive tonight. Check out Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 08:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Julie Briody has a new career high with 25 points against the Wildcats. The Lobos continue to play well as a team, save a few bad fouls.

UNM leads Arizona 73-52 with 3:29 left in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 08:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM has a 63-45 lead and has Arizona so frazzled I doubt the Wildcats have any shot at comeback.

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

The Lobos are still knocking down perimeter shots and Dionne Marsh has picked up the scoring, adding four second-half points. Both teams went on a three-minute drought, which obviously favors the Lobos.

Posted by ilimon at 08:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos are picking up their inside scoring and Julie Briody has hit some amazing shots to push UNM ahead 49-37 with 15:30 left in second half.

Posted by ilimon at 07:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Lobos relied on hot perimeter shooting to claim a seven-point halftime lead. Arizona cut the lead to three points, but UNM keeps knocking down long-range shots to stay in the game and pick apart the Wildcats' zone.

UNM is shooting 65 percent from the field (15-23), 75 percent (6-of-8) from 3-point range and 100 percent from the line (2-2). Katie Montgomery has 13 points. She is 5-of-5 from the field and 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. Julie Briody is next in line with nine points, shooting 4-of-6.

All of the Lobos' offense has come from the outside, and Dionne Marsh was limited to two first-half points.

Arizona had been a strong perimeter shooting team as well, but the bulk of its points came inside. Suzy Bofia, a 6-foot-6 center, leads the Wildcats with 8 points. The Wildcats are shooting 44 percent from the field and 14 percent from 3-point range. Arizona is 6-of-8 from the free-throw line for 75 percent.

The teams are tied at 12 rebounds apiece, but Arizona has a 5-1 advantage on the offensive boards.

I don't know if UNM can count on hot shooting to win this game. I think the Lobos are going to have find a way to score inside to win this game.

Posted by ilimon at 07:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Now UNM is cold from the field, while Arizona is knocking down shots under pressure. The Lobos went to a 2-3 zone, but the Wildcats hit some tough outside shots to make a huge dent in UNM's lead. The Lobos are up 29-25 with 3:51 left in the first half.

Posted by ilimon at 07:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

About a minute ago, the Lobos had an unbelievable line going. They were 10-of-14 from the field, 3-of-4 from 3-point range and 2-of-2 from the free-throw line.

It's amazing what running your offense well can do for shooting percentages.

The only glitch now is Arizona is starting to pound the bal inside. Valerie Kast is in to see if she can counter the Wildcats' 6-foot-6 center.

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

UNM continues its hot shooting, hitting 73 percent from the field, 67 percent from 3-point range and 100 percent (2-of-2) from the free-throw line.

The only problem is Julie Briody, who leads UNM with nine points, just picked up her second foul.

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

UNM is running its offense well to get good looks against Arizona's zone, while the Wildcats are a little cold from the field.

The Lobos already have four assists and are shooting 71 percent from the field, while Arizona is shooting 29 percent from the field. Advantage, Lobos.

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

In a last-minute change, Timi E-Nunu is starting in place of Angela Hartill, who UNM coach Don Flanagan said he would use to counter Arizona's height advantage. I guess he went with speed instead.

Stay tuned for updates.

Posted by ilimon at 06:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Mountain West Conference postseason awards were announced today. Here's the Trib's story on the awards and the complete list from the conference.

Kenny Byrd won special teams co-player of the year and first team all conference honors. Wide receiver Travis Brown, running back Rodney Ferguson, offensive lineman Robert Turner and defensive back Quincy Black joined him on the first team.

Defensive lineman Tyler Donaldson and defensive back DeAndre Wright earned second team honors. Defensive back Glover Quin and wide receiver Marcus Smith earned honorable mention honors.

It took me a few hours to compile my ballot. It's always tough to decide these awards. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section of the blog. Here's my list:

OFFENSE FIRST TEAM
QB John Beck BYU
WR Travis Brown LOBOS
WR Casey Flair UNLV
RB Rodney Ferguson LOBOS
RB Curtis Brown BYU
TE Jonny Harline BYU
OL Robert Turner LOBOS
OL Jake Kuresa BYU
OL Sete Aulai BYU
OL Herb Taylor TCU
OL Tavo Tupola Utah
PK Kenny Byrd LOBOS
PR/KR Brice McCain Utah

OFFENSE SECOND TEAM
QB Jeff Ballard TCU
WR Brent Casteel Utah
WR Marcus Smith LOBOS
RB Aaron Brown TCU
RB Chad Hall Air Force
TE Kory Sperry Colorado State
OL Robert Kraay Air Force
OL Robert Conley Utah
OL Chase Johnson Wyoming
OL Matty Linder TCU
OL Jason Boone Utah
PK Jared McLaughlin BYU
PR/KR Brian Bonner TCU

DEFENSE FIRST TEAM
DL Tommy Blake TCU
DL Tyler Donaldson LOBOS
DL Corey Mace Wyoming
DL Martail Burnett Wyoming
LB Cameron Jensen BYU
LB Drew Fowler Air Force
LB Joe Jiannoni Utah
DB Quincy Black LOBOS
DB Eric Weddle Utah
DB DeAndre Wright LOBOS
DB John Wendling Wyoming
P Kip Facer UNLV

DEFENSE SECOND TEAM
DL Chase Ortiz TCU
DL Jeremy Gathers UNLV
DL Kelly Talavou Utah
DL Antwan Applewhite SDSU
LB Ward Dobbs Wyoming
LB Joe Martin SDSU
LB Russell Allan SDSU
DB Glover Quin LOBOS
DB Steve Tate Utah
DB Eric Wright UNLV
DB Julius Stinson Wyoming
P Jimmie Kaylor CSU

Offensive player of the year
John Beck, BYU

Defensive player of the year
Quincy Black, LOBOS

Special teams player of the year
Kenny Byrd, LOBOS

Freshman of the year
Kasten Sween, Wyoming

Coach of the year
Bronco Mendenhall, BYU

Posted by ilimon at 01:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I am finally thawing out from watching a truly freezing practice. It was crazy cold.

All the UNM quarterbacks were back at practice, including a guy wearing No. 12. Kole McKamey worked out with the team for the first time since he was injured against New Mexico State during the second game of the season. He said he was doing all the passing and running in rehab, so he asked if could go to practice. Everyone agreed, and he participated in drills where he wouldn't get hit. He also insisted that he would not take away any reps from other players.

Donovan Porterie was back and looks to be at full strength, although everyone was a little rusty with time off and the bitter cold weather.

Bo Greer was the only player who missed practice. He was out sick but should be back soon.

The seniors worked out for an hour and a half, while the rest of the team stayed a full two hours. As practice wore on, the guys were allowed to hit and they hammered each other pretty hard. I think it was more about their eagerness to keep warm rather than desire to hit hard. Either way, it was a pretty tough practice.

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

Posted by ilimon at 08:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Associated Press Top 25 women's basketball poll has been a little puzzling lately. Texas, a team UNM beat, stayed in the poll while the Lobos dropped out and stayed out.

Well two weeks later, on the heels of three straight wins over less than glamorous teams, UNM is back in the Top 25.

The Lobos are ranked No. 23 in the latest AP poll. I can't figure out the logic, but I'm sure UNM isn't complaining.

Click on this link to get a complete list of the rankings.

Posted by ilimon at 03:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

UPDATE: Here' s the link to my column from Monday's Tribune explaining my vote.

Florida is facing Ohio State in the national championship, and I suppose I helped the Gators. It was a tough choice, and I'm not necessarily happy with the way it all went down. The Harris poll is one of three factors used to determine which determine Bowl Championship Series standings. The standings are used to award spots in the BCS bowl games and name a national champion. Here are final picks:

1. Ohio State
2. Florida
3. Michigan
4. Louisville
5. Boise State
6. LSU
7. Wisconsin
8. USC
9. Auburn
10. Notre Dame
11. Oklahoma
12. West Virginia
13. Arkansas
14. Virginia Tech
15. BYU
16. Wake Forest
17. Rutgers
18. Tennessee
19. Texas
20. Cal
21. Texas A&M
22. Boston College
23. TCU
24. Georgia
25. Oregon State

Disagree? I'm sure a lot of Michigan fans have a bone to pick with me. You can post your thoughts on the comments section of my blog. And check out Monday's Tribune to see the rationale behind my picks.

Posted by ilimon at 06:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

My postgame story on the Lobos' rout of New Mexico State at Lobo Zone, and you can find it at this link.

One minor change to an early score box that was circulated. Valerie Kast had five points instead of three she originally was credited with and Angela Hartill had six instead of eight.

So that's all for tonight. I'm off to finish my Harris poll ballot. What happens if I rank Boise State No. 2? Just kidding. I'm not that tired.

Posted by ilimon at 10:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Check out Lobo Zone soon for a complete postgame story.

Posted by ilimon at 08:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Angela Hartill set a mean old Katie Kern-style screen and Aggie guard Jazmyn Foster was knocked over. She was dizzy when she got up and the Aggies seemed to think it was a dirty play, but no foul was called and it looked clean to me.

Posted by ilimon at 08:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The Aggies mounted a mini run with three UNM freshmen on the floor, grabbing a 9-4 advantage.

Sherell Neal, who had two points four minutes ago, lead the Aggies with six quick points.

Posted by ilimon at 08:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Eileen Weissmann and Christian Shelter just checked in and it shouldn't be long before we see an all freshman lineup.

The Julie Briody scoring meter is up to an impressive 23 points.

Posted by ilimon at 08:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Julie Briody hit a 3-pointer, pushing her to a career-high 21 points. She's on fire tonight.

The Lobos picked up three early fouls but have settled down and are protecting their huge lead.

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

Julie Briody has exploded for an 18-point first half, just tearing up the Aggies. Dionne Marsh and Katie Montgomery are next in line with nine points apiece.

Angela Hartill has rebounded from some rough performances early this season to lead the team in rebounds with six in 12 minutes of play.

Cecilia Russell-Nava, who shoots a very strange 3-pointer from her hip, leads the Aggies with 9 points.

UNM is shooting 43 percent from the field, 60 percent from 3-point range and 83 percent from the free-throw line. The Lobos also hold a 24-14 rebounding advantage, with a 9-4 edge on the offensive boards.

The Aggies are shooting 35 percent from the field, 38 percent from 3-point range and 40 percent from the free-throw line.

NMSU has 14 personal fouls to UNM's 6.

In other words, it's already a blowout. If UNM comes out even playing average, the Lobos coast to a win. It would help to get some reserves more playing time and have starters rest with a game looming Tuesday at Arizona.

Posted by ilimon at 07:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM coach Don Flanagan is straining to go over isntructions with his players during timeouts, but the Lobos seem to be handling the Aggies pretty well.

Valerie Kast already has seen some action, although she didn't score in the few minutes she was in the game.

Posted by ilimon at 07:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM is keeping the pressure on New Mexico State, running away with the game.

Julie Briody is off to another impressive start, scoring a game-high 11 points a little more than halfway through the first half. Katie Montgomery is next in line for the Lobos with six points and four rebounds.

Posted by ilimon at 07:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

UNM went on an 11-4 run, hitting outside shots and some transition buckets.

The Aggies clearly are packing the paint and hoping UNM goes cold. It worked during their mini run, but the Lobos bounced back and are hitting 50 percent from 3-point range

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

UNM jumped out to an 8-0 run and grabbed four offensive rebounds, but the Aggies battled back on a 5-0 run.

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

Timi E-Nunu is getting her second consecutive career start, which should help the Lobos contain the Aggies' transition game. They love to push the ball up the court.

Stay tuned for updates.

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

I wrote a story for today's Tribune about the gifts that will be handed out to players and coaches participating in the New Mexico Bowl.

The bowl staff members were well aware the gifts generate national buzz and help make or break the bowl's reputation.

So they aimed big and landed really nice gifts that should get rave reviews. The UNM players already found out about the gifts and are excited about them. I would be thrilled too.

Posted by ilimon at 04:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)