We are back with our coverage for the Lobos (2-2) Mountain West Opener against AFA (3-1). The Lobos are looking to end their two-game losing streak and get their offense rolling again after a couple of rough outings the last few weeks. Looking back at last season’s meeting, AFA won 28-0, in the game the Lobos were able to force four AFA fumbles (recovering three) but were unable to cash in (missed four Field Goals). The Lobos haven’t beat AFA since 2017, in the game, Richard McQuarley rushed 11 times for 179 yards and five Touchdowns.

I (Zach) will be updating this post throughout the game and will have a separate Zach’s Reacts post after the game.

Zach’s Keys to the game:

• Give Terry Wilson time to create: Each of the last two games Wilson has had very little time to create and allow the playmakers to create space in the secondary. If the Lobos want to have a decent shot in this game the Lobos need to give time and have 5+ 20 yard plays.
• Create Havoc: Joey Noble and the rest of the Lobos rush attack has to find a home in the backfield, making reads hard for the AFA QB and forcing mistakes.
• Nothing Added: The Lobos have had a few problems these last few years on committing penalties that extend drives for their opponents or put them way behind the sticks. They have to keep the penalties at a minimum.

The Lobos won the toss and will receive the opening kickoff.

Lobos Opening Drive:

Kickoff is a touchback. Lobos will start their day at the 25.

• Lobos were unable to convert on a 3rd and 2 and will have to punt.
• Good first punt on the day.

AFA Opening Drive: 

AFA will start their drive on the 27.

• AFA with a false start to make it 1st and 15. AFA erase the penalty with a 10-yard run.
• AFA picks up the first down and will add on 15 yards on a face mask penalty, putting AFA at the +45.
• AFA is getting 5+ yards before there’s a Lobo in the area, obviously, that needs to change or it will be a LONG day for the Lobos. FYI, I am right next to AFA Radio Broadcast and they are saying the same thing (smart).
• This has been a classic AFA drive.
• AFA with the Touchdown drive covering 73 yards.

8:25 1st Quarter: AFA 7 Lobos 0

• Mannie Logan-Greene with a great return to start the drive at the 45. The Lobos missed him a lot last week against UTEP.
• I like seeing the Lobos getting Trea Hall involved in the game. He’s one of your better athletes might as well find a way to use him.
• Lobos drive stalls and AFA accepts the holding penalty (on a 3rd and long) and are rewarded with a strip-sack and will take over at the +41.

5:33 1st Quarter: AFA 7 Lobos 0

• AFA drive starts at the +41 after the fumble recovery.
• AFA will go for it on the 4th and 3 play.
• AFA will just pick up the first down and keep their drive moving.
• AFA is able to avoid a turnover on a muffed snap.

End of the 1st Quarter: AFA 7 Lobos 0

• AFA will have a 30-yard Field Goal Attempt after the change of ends.