The University of New Mexico football team had shown some promise in the offense two weeks ago, but inconsistency has now put the Lobos at a 2-3 overall record and head coach Bob Davie in a disappointed state.
Davie had said the New Mexico State game would be a “big indicator” of where the team stood. After beating the Aggies 55-52, the Lobo staff talked about the need for improvement on the defense. The defensive side of the team did improve against Liberty the following week but UNM still lost 10-17.
Bob Davie postgame said they have gone backwards the last two weeks. Expected consistency from Tevaka and frustrated with “ridiculous” interceptions from Jones. Davie, “we’ve got to grow up”. Enough character to compete, but disappointed in their performance.
— J.J. Golazo (@_JJBuck) October 5, 2019
Davie said quarterback Tevaka Tuioti did not look sharp against Liberty. Tuioti dealt with two family deaths earlier this season, but Davie had said the redshirt sophomore earned the starting quarterback spot and that the Lobos could count on him. Tuioti had a good performance against NMSU as he threw 355 yards and collected 414 yards in total offense, including three touchdowns. But his performance hasn’t been consistent since then.
Tuioti couldn’t find rhythm against the Spartans, only picking up 34 passing yards before an interception and fumble that got him replaced by Sheriron Jones. Jones didn’t exactly start the day on a high note as threw an interception right away. The New Mexico offense didn’t get on the board until there was only 1:12 left in the first half. By then San Jose State already had 26-0 lead.
The Spartans entered the day tied for fourth in the NCAA with seven interceptions.
Add four more to the total. #SpartanUp pic.twitter.com/cjr3rf3IpU
— San José State Football (@SanJoseStateFB) October 5, 2019
Sheriron eventually improved and he finished the game with 127 passing yards. UNM led 238-52 in rushing yards against the Spartans, but SJSU had a 412-161 advantage in passing yards. The Spartans’ defense set a season-high of six turnovers on four interceptions and two fumble recoveries.
Friday’s 21-32 loss to the Spartans handed the Lobos a 0-1 conference record to begin Mountain West play. UNM gets a chance at their first conference win on Friday when the Lobos host the Colorado State Rams.
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