LAS CRUCES, New Mexico (KTSM) — The New Mexico State Aggies began their 2025 football season 1-0, securing a 19-3 victory over the Bryant Bulldogs at Aggie Memorial Stadium on Saturday night.
New Mexico State struck first with a 24-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Logan Fife to wide receiver PJ Johnson III at the 10:02 mark of the first quarter. Although the extra point was missed, the Aggies took an early 6-0 lead.
Bryant responded late in the first quarter, getting on the board with a 43-yard field goal from Bryce Soli, cutting the Aggies’ lead to 6-3.
The Aggies extended their lead to 9-3 with a 41-yard field goal from kicker Ryan Hawk at 13:33 of the second quarter. The score was 9-3 at halftime.
After a scoreless third quarter, NMSU added another field goal, this time a 27-yard kick by Hawk, increasing their advantage to 12-3 with 12:10 left in the game.
The final blow came in the fourth quarter as Kadrius Calloway broke free for a 17-yard rushing touchdown at 6:20, giving the Aggies a commanding 19-3 lead after a successful extra point.
Despite a missed extra point and a quiet third quarter, the Aggies were able to control the pace of the game, forcing Bryant into difficult situations and never allowing them to mount a serious threat.
Fife showed confidence in his debut. He finished with 14 completions on 31 pass attempts, 227 passing yards, a touchdown, and an interception.
Wide receiver Donovan Faupel led the Aggies receiving core with 99 yards on five catches. Johnson III finished with 24 receiving yards and a touchdown catch.
On defense, NMSU’s Jamall Thompson Jr. had a team-high two sacks and 9 total tackles. Linebacker Tyler Martinez was right below him with eight total tackles.
With the victory, NMSU starts the season 1-0.
Following their season-opening victory over Bryant, New Mexico State will take a significant step up in competition next Saturday. The Aggies will host Tulsa at Aggie Memorial Stadium, looking to build on their momentum.
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