In a statistically efficient outing that extended the Lobos' winning streak to eight games, El Paso delivered a commanding 35-6 victory over the struggling Stallions on December 5th at their home stadium. Under the leadership of head coach Ivory Roberts, the Lobos improved to an impressive 13-1 overall and a perfect 6-0 within the division, clinching the top spot in the league’s division standings. Conversely, the Stallions, coached by Adrian Moore, fell to 3-11 and were already eliminated from playoff contention prior to this game.
Efficiency was the hallmark of the Lobos' performance. Quarterback Josef Smith completed 23 of 28 pass attempts for 226 yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating a strong 82% completion percentage. This accuracy helped power an offense that amassed 208 rushing yards on 30 carries, balanced with 226 receiving yards, showcasing a dominant ground and air attack. The Stallions, meanwhile, amassed 243 passing yards on 27 completions from 40 attempts but failed to convert any touchdowns, settling only for two field goals.
The Lobos’ offense was especially effective moving the chains and scoring when opportunities arose. Smith connected on three touchdown passes—in the first quarter to Joshua Jett and in the third quarter to both Ron Pooler and Robert Peery. Running backs James King and Xavier Gayle combined for 132 total rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, with King leading with 81 rushing yards. Additionally, Peery and Jett each contributed rushing touchdowns, further diversifying El Paso's offense.
The scoring pattern indicated early dominance by the Lobos, who opened the game with a touchdown at 4:08 of the first quarter and never looked back. The Stallions’ only points of the day came on field goals by kicker Alan Foster in the second and third quarters. The Lobos defense consistently pressured Stallions quarterback Zachariah Gallego, who was intercepted twice and forced into two turnovers. The Lobos sacked Gallego five times, a stark contrast to the Stallions’ defense that registered zero sacks. This defensive pressure disrupted the Stallions’ attempts to find a rhythm, nullifying scoring chances and contributing to their inability to convert third downs.
Defensively, the Lobos forced two fumbles and recovered one, while tallying five sacks with Joshua Cathey notably involved in critical plays including a sack that caused a Stallions fumble. Meanwhile, Stallions quarterback Gallego, despite passing for 243 yards, was plagued by two costly interceptions that shifted momentum decisively in El Paso’s favor.
The game also saw a tactical battle in special teams, with Lobos punter Sylvester Brown consistently flipping field position, including a 58-yard punt to the Stallions' six-yard line. Brad Pettus was perfect on all extra point attempts, contributing five points over the game.
Penalties were relatively even, with both teams distributing seven penalties each, but none of these infractions appeared to swing the game's momentum significantly.
Historically, this game cements the Lobos' dominance this season, boasting one of the best defensive performances and most efficient offenses in the league. With 428 points scored and just 117 allowed this season, their statistical profile places them as a top contender moving into the postseason.
The Lobos now await their playoff opponents with confidence, having proven they can execute decisively under pressure. Head coach Ivory Roberts’ balanced attack and aggressive defense demonstrate why El Paso is the team to beat in the division this season.
Lobos Dominate Stallions 35-6, Extend Winning Streak to Eight
El Paso’s Lobos maintain their unbeaten division record and clinch the division with a commanding home victory.
Raymond Farnell
· El Paso Gazette
· 12/05/1999