In their 1999 regular season opener, the El Paso Lobos kicked off the year with a gritty 17-10 home victory over the Big Horns, a win that sets a hopeful tone for the season ahead. With Coach Ivory Roberts at the helm, the Lobos showcased resilience and a balanced attack despite some early jitters and turnovers that could have swung the game the other way.

The game got off to an unexpected start when Big Horns' punt returner Robert Peery dazzled with a 90-yard touchdown on a punt return just minutes in, putting the visiting team up 6-0 and rattling the Lobos. However, the Lobos responded quickly, as kicker Bradford Pettus converted an extra point to bring the score to 7-6 in favor of El Paso, restoring order early.

Momentum swung back decisively when Lobos quarterback Josef Smith connected with tight end Raymond Ashe for a short but crucial 4-yard touchdown pass late in the first quarter. Pettus again delivered the extra point, pushing the Lobos to a 14-6 lead. This two-touchdown surge was a clear signal of the Lobos’ intent to seize control despite some uncharacteristic miscues.

Offensively, Josef Smith displayed both promise and struggles. He finished the night with 163 passing yards and a touchdown, but also threw three interceptions that had fans on edge. Yet Smith’s mobility lent an important extra dimension, contributing 33 rushing yards. Meanwhile, Ashe was a standout target with 81 receiving yards, proving to be a reliable security blanket in tight situations.

Defensively, the Lobos were impressive, applying constant pressure with four sacks and forcing multiple turnovers, including two crucial interceptions and a forced fumble by linebacker Anthony Jeffcoat, who not only sacked the quarterback but also forced a fumble—key plays that disrupted the Big Horns’ rhythm. Christian Norton’s forced fumble recovery late in the third quarter was a pivotal moment, staving off a Big Horns comeback attempt.

The Big Horns, led by quarterback James Polly, who threw for 104 yards and one interception, kept fighting hard. Their lone touchdown came in the fourth quarter on a 21-yard run by Over Underwood, who also caught a touchdown pass. Despite the late score trimming the lead to 17-10, the Lobos defense tightened, denying any further advances.

Bradford Pettus’ 46-yard field goal in the third quarter proved to be the difference-maker, providing the insurance points that ultimately secured the Lobos' narrow victory. El Paso’s special teams showed consistency, as Pettus was perfect with his kicks and the Lobos punt coverage limited Big Horns’ return threats.

Coach Ivory Roberts will appreciate the character his team demonstrated after a shaky start, particularly in the red zone and under pressure. This win carries weight not only on the scoreboard but in building locker-room confidence and establishing early season momentum. With a 1-0 record now entered in the books, the Lobos have positioned themselves well to contend as the season unfolds, although the turnovers serve as a reminder of areas needing improvement.

The Lobos avoided the trap of a potential upset at home, and as the season progresses, the focus will be on refining ball security and continuing to balance the offensive attack. If Coach Roberts and his squad can capitalize on this positive start, El Paso could be competitive in a league that demands toughness and resilience week after week.