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PASEDENA, CA – UNM FOOTBALL

The New Mexico Lobos delivered a statement victory on Friday night, shocking UCLA 35–10 on the Bruins’ homecoming at the Rose Bowl. Behind a relentless rushing attack and a career night from running back Damon Bankston, UNM controlled the game from start to finish and left Pasadena with one of the biggest wins in program history.

First-Ever Win Over a Big Ten Opponent

The Lobos’ victory marked their first ever win over a Big Ten opponent, a milestone for both the program and the Mountain West Conference. It also went down as the largest margin of victory for a Mountain West school over a Big Ten team since Utah topped Indiana 40–13 back in 2002.

UNM’s ground game was the difference. The Lobos piled up 298 rushing yards on 46 carries, overwhelming a UCLA defense that couldn’t find answers. Meanwhile, the Bruins struggled with discipline, committing 13 penalties for 116 yards, stalling drives and killing momentum.

Bankston Leads the Charge

The star of the night was unquestionably RB Damon Bankston. The senior running back racked up 154 rushing yards and a touchdown, while also catching a 43-yard touchdown pass to showcase his versatility.

Bankston’s ability to consistently move the chains not only kept UCLA’s defense on the field but also opened up opportunities for explosive plays in the passing game. His performance established him as one of the Mountain West’s top offensive threats.

Key Stats

• Final Score: New Mexico 35, UCLA 10
• Rushing Yards (UNM): 298 on 46 carries
• Top Performer: Damon Bankston — 154 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD, 1 receiving TD (43 yards)
• Penalties (UCLA): 13 for 116 yards

Why It Matters

For Head Coach Jason Eck, this wasn’t just a win — it was a program-defining moment. The Lobos, often overlooked on the national stage, went into one of college football’s most iconic venues and dominated a Power Five opponent.

It’s a result that will resonate far beyond the Mountain West. For recruits, fans, and players alike, this was proof that New Mexico football is moving in the right direction.

Looking Ahead

The Lobos will look to carry this momentum into the heart of their schedule, now firmly on the radar as a dangerous contender in the Mountain West. For UCLA, the loss serves as a wake-up call heading into conference play, with discipline and execution at the top of their to-fix list.

But for now, the night belongs to New Mexico. The Lobos left the Rose Bowl with a victory that will be remembered as one of the greatest in school history.