New Mexico Football Upsets UCLA 35-10: Historic Victory Shocks College Sports World
New Mexico Lobos defeat UCLA 35-10 in stunning college football upset. First Big Ten victory since 2008 powered by dominant 298-yard rushing attack.
New Mexico Lobos Dominate UCLA Bruins in Shocking 35-10 College Football Upset
Published: September 13, 2025 | Sports Desk
In one of the biggest college football upsets of the 2025 season, the New Mexico Lobos demolished the UCLA Bruins 35-10 on Friday night, delivering a performance that sent shockwaves through the college sports world. The Lobos, entering as massive 15.5-point underdogs, completely dominated both sides of the ball in what many are calling the upset of the year.
Historic Victory Marks Major Milestone for New Mexico Football
This stunning victory represents New Mexico's first win over a Big Ten opponent and their first triumph against a Power Five conference team since defeating Arizona (then Pac-10) on September 13, 2008. The 17-year drought officially ended with a statement performance that showcased the Lobos' potential under first-year head coach Jason Eck.
Dominant Ground Game Powers New Mexico to Victory
The story of the night was New Mexico's absolutely crushing rushing attack. The Lobos accumulated 298 rushing yards on 46 carries, averaging an impressive 6.5 yards per attempt while completely controlling the line of scrimmage.
Key offensive statistics:
- Damon Bankston: 154 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD, 43-yard receiving TD
- Jack Layne: 152 passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns
- Time of possession: 36:38 (dominated ball control)
- Tackles for loss allowed: 0 (perfect protection)
UCLA Struggles Continue with Third Consecutive Loss
The Bruins, now 0-3 on the season, faced another disappointing performance plagued by penalties and execution issues. UCLA was flagged 13 times for 116 yards, contributing significantly to their downfall.
UCLA's concerning trends:
- First-quarter struggles: Outscored 30-0 in three games this season
- Quarterback Nico Iamaleava: 22/34, 217 yards, 1 TD
- Unable to establish running game against New Mexico's defense
Game-Changing Moments and Strategic Decisions
New Mexico's victory was built on several key sequences:
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Early Strategy Shift: After attempting trick plays on their first two snaps, the Lobos pivoted to their ground game with immediate success
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Third Quarter Dominance: A punishing 13-play, 75-yard drive capped by Bankston's 2-yard touchdown run effectively sealed the game
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Ball Control Mastery: New Mexico's ability to sustain drives and keep UCLA's offense off the field proved crucial
Impact on Both Programs Moving Forward
For New Mexico (2-1):
- Massive confidence boost heading into conference play
- Validation of Coach Jason Eck's offensive system
- Historic win provides recruiting momentum
For UCLA (0-3):
- Serious questions about Big Ten readiness
- Coaching staff under increased pressure
- Need for immediate offensive line improvements
Expert Analysis: Why This Upset Happened
College football analysts point to several factors behind New Mexico's dominant performance:
- Physical superiority along the offensive line
- Strategic game planning that neutralized UCLA's strengths
- Mental preparation that allowed the Lobos to execute under pressure
- UCLA's self-inflicted wounds through penalties and turnovers
What's Next for Both Teams
New Mexico will look to build on this momentum when they host New Mexico State in the Rio Grande Rivalry on September 27, concluding their non-conference schedule on a high note.
UCLA faces an immediate test as they open Big Ten conference play at Northwestern on September 27, desperately needing to find solutions to their early-season struggles.
Historical Context: Upset Rankings in College Football
This victory ranks among the most significant upsets in recent college football history, joining other memorable David vs. Goliath moments where preparation and execution overcame talent disparities.
Social Media Reaction and Fan Response
The college football world erupted on social media following New Mexico's stunning victory, with fans and analysts praising the Lobos' complete domination and questioning UCLA's preparedness for Big Ten play.
