CANYON, Texas – West Texas A&M scored on the first play of the game and never looked back as they raced past the rival Greyhounds of Eastern New Mexico, 43-14 during Lone Star Conference action during the 37
th Wagon Wheel Game at Bain-Schaeffer Buffalo Stadium in Canyon.
WT capitalized early in the first quarter with a decisive 66-yard touchdown pass from
RJ Martinez to
Drew Zamar on the first play of the game, setting the tone for a dominant start. The home team extended their lead to 14-0 through another Martinez touchdown pass, this time a 21-yard connection with
Jayden Hibbler. While Eastern New Mexico managed to gain 65 rushing yards, their efforts were thwarted by a turnover on downs at the WT 28-yard line. The Buffs led 14-0 at the end of the first quarter.
The Buffs dominated the second quarter, extending their lead to 29-7.
Gene Sledge made a significant impact with a 28-yard rush that set up Martinez's touchdown pass to Hibbler. WT's defense was formidable, recording two sacks for 13 yards and limiting Eastern New Mexico to just 7 yards on 18 rush attempts.
West Texas A&M capitalized on a strong passing performance from Martinez, who completed seven of 10 attempts for 113 yards, including a key 46-yard connection to
Sean Johnson, leading to a touchdown in the third quarter. The Buffs' defense was effective in halting Eastern New Mexico's momentum, with
Ashton Reynolds and
Javin Cash each contributing to tackles for loss, and
Cam Manahan securing an interception to end a Lobos' drive. At the end of the period, the Buffs maintained a commanding 36-7 lead.
The Buffs started the fourth quarter with more points, highlighted by a 22-yard completion from Martinez to
Jamir Roberts, setting up Sledge's nine-yard touchdown run at 8:54. Despite an interception thrown by
Knox Porter, the defense held firm, forcing Eastern New Mexico to a turnover on downs late in the game.
Martinez completed 26 of 43 passes for 424 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing a strong passing performance. Zamar caught three passes for 99 yards, including one touchdown.
Zach Phipps contributed with four receptions for 64 yards and two touchdowns. On the defensive side,
Jamel Acosta-Lewis recorded 11 total tackles, leading the team in tackles.
The Buffs hit the road next week as they travel to Midland, Texas to take on the #13 Falcons of UT Permian Basin with kickoff set for 6:00 p.m. at Astound Broadband Stadium.
