NFL News NFL News, Reports and UpdatesThe more things changed at quarterback for New Mexico State, the more things have stayed the same.
The Aggies (2-6, 1-4 CUSA) tried their fourth signal caller of the season against Florida International (3-6, 2-3 Conference USA) on Tuesday evening, as senior Brandon Nunez made his first start. He failed to deliver in a 34-13 loss to the Panthers despite sparking NM State in its 33-30 double-overtime victory over Louisiana Tech on Oct. 15. Nunez completed just five of his 15 passes for 12 yards, the lowest passing yards for an Aggies’ starting quarterback since Jeff Fleming’s 22 against then-No. 17 Ohio State in 2009.
He also threw an interception with 7:08 in the third quarter, a deep pass into tight coverage that was overthrown to redshirt freshman tight end Jerry Lydiatt. Nunez’s struggles meant the Aggies overwhelmingly had to rely on its ground game, with NM State generating 216 of its 246 total yards and its only touchdown through rushes.
Nunez was replaced by junior Santino Marucci on the Aggies’ final offensive drive. NM State’s offense was one-dimensional, although NM State coach Tony Sanchez didn’t have an explanation for why Nunez struggled.
“I gotta watch the film,” Sanchez said. “After that, I’ll evaluate him.”
Nunez left much to be desired with his throws, but he particularly floundered going deep. He threw multiple long passes that missed their mark, and his longest completion was just seven yards to senior wide receiver Kordell David with 5:16 in the second quarter. It was a far cry from the LA Tech game where the Aggies had three passes for 20 yards or more, including a 53-yard touchdown pass.
A frustrated Sanchez credited the Panthers for “keeping the ball in front of them.”
“Our explosives were in the run game,” Sanchez said. “They did a good job of playing soft (coverage)… We want to be able to run…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/mexico-state-football-nunez-falters-042105140.html
Author : Las Cruces Sun-News
Publish date : 2024-10-30 04:21:05
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