In the third quarter, the Utah offensive machine blew open what was a relatively close game against New Mexico.
At the same time the Utes were rolling up big yards and scoring three touchdowns, the defense dug in and limited the Lobos to 33 yards and 14 plays. The three New Mexico drives, which lasted a tad more than four minutes, resulted in two punts and the first career interception by corner Brandon Burton.
It was just more of what had begun in the second period when Utah held the Lobos to 10 yards on the ground.
"The defense gave up a long drive early and near the end," Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said. "But overall, they did what they should have."
As Utah pulled in front, the Utes' defense kept the pressure on New Mexico quarterback Donovan Porterie, and later his backup B.R. Holbrook. They forced two interceptions, including a pick by freshman Ryan Lacy.
The Utes also collected seven tackles for a loss of yardage, while linebacker Chad Manis earned a sack and ends Nai Fotu and Derrick Shelby combined for another.
The first New Mexico scoring drive was capped by a 59-yard touchdown pass from Porterie to Ty Kirk late in the first quarter. The Lobos' next 10 drives went nowhere. Punter Adam Miller was New Mexico's most effective weapon, averaging 48 yards on eight punts.
"We are going to have to focus our energy on improving our pass coverage and blitzes to take on a top-10 team in TCU," Sylvester said about next week's opponent. "We're excited for the challenge that they will bring."
»Utah's defense allows New Mexico only 33 total yards on 14 plays in the third quarter.
» Utah picks off two passes and sacks Lobo quarterbacks twice.
