The No. 20 Tennessee Volunteers overcame a slow start to defeat New Mexico State 42-9 on November 15 at Neyland Stadium. Four different Vols players scored rushing touchdowns in the victory, marking the end of their nonconference schedule. Quarterback Joey Aguilar contributed 204 passing yards and a rushing score despite two interceptions.
Game Overview
Tennessee (7-3) hosted New Mexico State (3-7) in their final nonconference game, securing a decisive 42-9 win after a sluggish first half. The Vols led 21-3 at halftime and pulled away in the second half with additional rushing scores and a pick-six.
Key Plays and Scoring
The game began with Tennessee taking a 7-0 lead on a 1-yard rush by DeSean Bishop, set up by a 45-yard pass from Aguilar to Chris Brazzell. Aguilar then added a 27-yard rushing touchdown for a 14-0 advantage following an interception by Ty Redmond. In the second quarter, Braylon Staley caught a 15-yard touchdown pass from Aguilar, his sixth of the season, extending the lead to 21-0.
New Mexico State responded with a 32-yard field goal before halftime, narrowing the gap to 21-3. The Aggies' only touchdown came late on a 1-yard run by Isaiah Rudison, but they missed the extra point, making it 42-9.
Tennessee's third quarter was dominant: Star Thomas scored on a 21-yard run for 28-3, followed by Peyton Lewis's 1-yard touchdown for 35-3. William Wright sealed the blowout with a 35-yard interception return for a touchdown, deflected by Tyre West.
Player Performances
Aguilar finished 17-for-23 for 204 yards and one touchdown, with two interceptions early. Backups Jake Merklinger and George MacIntyre saw action in the fourth quarter. Defensively, Tennessee recorded two interceptions, while several key players like Joshua Josephs, Boo Carter, and Jermod McCoy were sidelined due to injuries.
Looking Ahead
Tennessee closes the regular season at Florida on November 22 and hosts Vanderbilt on November 29. The win helps the Vols rebound from a recent loss to Oklahoma.