Jacksonville State Triumphs Over New Mexico State with a 54-13 Win

JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — Jacksonville State University secured a decisive 54-13 victory over New Mexico State University on Wednesday night, led by an impressive performance from their offense. This win marks Jacksonville State’s third victory in the Conference USA season, bringing their record to 3-3 overall and 2-0 in the conference.

Jacksonville State’s quarterback was instrumental in the team’s triumphant performance, passing for two touchdowns and rushing for another. The running game was exceptionally strong, as six different rushers combined for a total of 49 carries, amassing 334 yards and five touchdowns.

The match saw a highlight early in the fourth quarter when a lone 72-yard touchdown run added to Jacksonville State’s score, pushing the lead to 54-6.

New Mexico State, struggling through a challenging season, fell to a 1-5 overall record and 0-3 in the conference, managing only 13 first downs and 220 yards in the first three quarters. They concluded the game with 350 total yards but were unable to overcome three turnovers, including a crucial interception in the end zone on the final play.

In the first half, Jacksonville State extended their lead to 33-6 by scoring on four of their last five drives. Their momentum continued into the second half, resulting in three consecutive scoring drives.

Late in the first half, Jacksonville State’s Stewart scored from 48 yards out, increasing their lead to 26-6. Following this, New Mexico State’s Marucci suffered a fumble, which was recovered by Jacksonville State after a teammate forced the turnover.

Quarterback Huff completed 11 of 18 passes totaling 196 yards, carrying the ball 13 times to gain an additional 58 yards. Stewart contributed significantly with 21 carries, yielding 118 yards, and added a 32-yard receiving touchdown to his performance.

The game encountered some alarming moments; New Mexico State’s Watkins was taken off the field in an ambulance after a trick play involving a direct snap went awry. He suffered a hard hit while trying to recover a fumble, prompting a necessary medical response.

Moreover, Marucci’s encounter with a head-on tackle resulted in an ejection for the opposing player due to targeting. After a period of assessment, Marucci returned to play later in the game despite the earlier scare.

Backup quarterback S could not significantly alter the course of the game, completing 9 of 16 passes for 120 yards, scoring one touchdown but also throwing an interception.