UNM Lobos defense ranks second nationally in passing yards allowed

The New Mexico Lobos defense ranks second nationally in passing yards allowed, giving up just 167 yards per game through the first two games of the season. The Lobos are also third nationally in total defense, allowing just 152 yards per game.

UNM is off to a 2-0 start after scoring 108 points over its first two games, including a 70-7 victory over Mercyhurst on Saturday.

Despite receiving no votes in the latest AP Top 25 poll, UNM received four votes in the USA Today Coaches Poll, putting the Lobos 44th overall.

Those defensive numbers were on full display against Mercyhurst. The Lakers managed only 155 total yards, including just 18 rushing yards. The Lobos’ offense finished with 460 total yards.

Defensive end Brett Karhu recorded a sack and two tackles against Mercyhurst.

“I was working construction like two months ago, so just being able to be out here and make a sack like that and scoop the ball, and we have North End Zone Howlers going crazy, it was a cool experience,” Karhu said.

Karhu pointed to turnovers as an area of emphasis for UNM entering the season. The Lobos won nine games last season despite a negative turnover differential.

“That was one of our biggest emphases this year,” Karhu said. “So it’s only two games in, but to start off that hot, it’s really promising to see.”

UNM will travel to Norman next Saturday to take on the No. 24 Oklahoma Sooners. Oklahoma enters the matchup allowing 197 passing yards per game.