LAS CRUCES, N.M. - Undefeated and averaging nearly 40 points a game, the hometown Roadrunners continued to exceed expectations in their first ever WAC game, winning 35-14.
Coach Coaker and the boys traveled to Las Cruces, NM to take on the New Mexico State Aggies. Before the game, the experienced head coach spoke highly of the Aggies' offensive playmakers, but it was UTSA who had all the fire-power with the ball in their hands.
Led by Junior Quarterback Eric Soza's 324 total yards and four touchdowns, the Roadrunners dominated time of possession, yards per play, and the turnover battle. But Soza did not do it alone, UTSA running back Evans Okatcha also had a standout day--totaling almost 100 yards and finding the end-zone twice.
Soza was 19 of 32 for 269 passing yards and gained 55 rushing yards, including a 33-yard touchdown run. Soza's passing touchdowns included an 82-yard throw to Kenny Bias and a 48-yard pass to Evans Okotcha.
Andrew Manley was 21 of 40 passing for 276 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions for New Mexico State (1-4, 0-1 WAC). Trevor Walls caught an 8-yard pass to help the Aggies score first. Austin Franklin had seven catches for 105 yards and a touchdown. Germi Morrison picked up 30 rushing yards on eight carries.
After their 21-point victory, the 5-0 Roadrunners are the top-ranked team in the WAC, and home to the conference's best defense and second highest scoring offense.
UTSA will return to action on October 13, in Houston against the Rice Owls.
