Fresno State improved to 3-1 overall after securing a 38-21 win over New Mexico in their Mountain West Conference opener Saturday at University Stadium. The Bulldogs now lead the series 16-6.

The victory marked head coach Tim Skipper’s first official road win.

Related Story: Fresno State vs. University of New Mexico: Key Players and Matchups to Watch

Bulldogs Dominate with Strong Balanced Effort

Fresno State dominated with a balanced attack, as the defense forced three turnovers — two interceptions and a fumble recovery — while the running backs delivered a strong performance. Both offense and defense played solidly, leading to a decisive road win.

Despite the Lobos scoring 21 points and leading in some statistical categories, the Bulldogs maintained control throughout the game, executing their game plan effectively.

Defense Contains Lobos Quarterback Despite Yardage Gains

Fresno State’s defense contained Lobos sophomore quarterback Devon Dampier, who posted impressive numbers both passing and rushing. Dampier completed 33 of 53 passes for 338 yards and a touchdown, while adding 67 yards on nine carries. However, he also threw two interceptions, contributing to the Bulldogs’ defensive dominance over the past three weeks.

Though New Mexico outgained Fresno State in total yards, rushing yards, and passing yards, self-inflicted penalties cost the Lobos. They committed 18 penalties for 114 yards, hindering their chances of closing the gap.

Offense Shines with Keene’s Accuracy and Trick Play Success

Fresno State’s offense was sharp all evening, led by junior quarterback Mikey Keene, who completed 26 of 33 passes for 226 yards and a touchdown.

The wide receiver corps also shined. Junior Josiah Freeman hauled in five receptions for 46 yards and a touchdown. Raylen Sharpe showcased his versatility, making key catches and contributing with a trick play. Sharpe’s highlight came in the second quarter, when he threw a touchdown pass to junior tight end Kamron Beachem.

Running Backs Step Up in Sherrod’s Absence

With senior running back Malik Sherrod sidelined due to an injury, Fresno State leaned on its backups, who rose to the occasion.

Senior Elijah Gilliam carried the ball 18 times for 54 yards and a touchdown, adding four receptions for 15 yards. Freshman Bryson Donelson, a Visalia native and Central Valley Christian graduate, contributed 32 yards on eight carries with a touchdown.

Junior kicker Dylan Lynch was perfect, going 3-for-3 on field goals, adding nine crucial points. Despite leaving some points on the field, it was an all-around team victory for the Bulldogs.

Related Story: Fresno State Football Wants ‘Payback’ When Facing New Mexico

Here are the players of the game:

Fresno State Offense

Junior Wide Receiver Raylen Sharpe, No. 11

Sharpe made a big impact in the Land of Enchantment, leading Fresno State with six receptions for 49 yards.

He also threw his first career touchdown pass, a 26-yard strike to junior tight end Kamron Beachem on a second-quarter trick play that highlighted his versatility.

Senior Running Back Elijah Gilliam, No. 33

With Sherrod out, senior Gilliam stepped up once again, a role he’s familiar with when called upon by the coaches.

Gilliam carried the ball 18 times for 54 yards, including a fourth-quarter touchdown — his second rushing score of the season and the seventh of his career. It also marked his second straight week finding the end zone. He added four receptions for 15 yards, contributing to Fresno State’s offensive balance.

Fresno State Defense

Junior Defensive Back Al’zillion Hamilton, No. 3

Hamilton contributed significantly to the Bulldogs’ defense, ranking third on the team with six tackles. He intercepted a pass from Dampier in the second quarter, marking his first interception of the season and the third of his career. This key turnover set up the touchdown connection from Sharpe to Beachem.

Hamilton also recorded a career-high 1.5 tackles for loss, showcasing his impact on the game.

Junior Defensive Back Julian Neal, No. 15

Neal had a total of 2 tackles, but he grabbed his first career interception by picking off a Dampier pass in the third quarter.

Related Story: Fresno State Football vs New Mexico State: Players of the Game

Next Up

This game should boost their confidence as they go into next week looking to take on the No. 25 ranked and undefeated UNLV Rebels (3-0) on the road in another conference matchup at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Saturday, Sept. 28.

The game starts at 12:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on FS1 or FS2.