Mesa State defense held Western New Mexico Mustangs scoreless until late in the game allowing a touchdown with just less than four minutes remaining. MSC beat the Mustangs 31-7 for their second consecutive victory, improving to 2-2 overall and 2-0 in league action.

                The Mustangs were held to just 37 net yards rushing despite holding a 75-73 total offensive plays advantage. MSC's balanced attack included 260 yards passing and 218 yards on the ground.

                Halfback Bobby Coy rushed for 160 yards on 29 carries and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Justin Murray recorded 140 yards on four receptions and a 47-yard touchdown pass from Phil Vigil.  Tight End Maurice Manley and receiver Griffin Chernoff combined for seven receptions and 80 yards. Vigil completed 13 passes on 24 attempts for 250 yards (two interceptions). Backup quarterback Dan Pinegar was 1-for-3 for 10 yards.

                MSC held a 7-0 halftime lead on a Vigil-to-Murray touchdown pass in the first quarter. The game remained scoreless until MSC exploded for 24 points in the fourth quarter. MSC held a 28-0 lead before the Mustangs found the end zone with 3:34 remaining in regulation. All-American Jared Keating hit a 41-yard field goal with 1:32 left and a 31-7 final score.

                Cody Walker, Ryan Kadavy and Ricky Noble had six tackles each.  Noble and Woody Blevins each had one interception each. Blevins returned the ball 36-yards for a touchdown and a 28-0 lead.

                C.J. Smith recorded six punts for 230 yards, including four inside the 20-yard line.

                MSC will host Fort Lewis College (Homecoming) Saturday night at Stocker Stadium. Kick-off is slated for 7 p.m.