The Grizzlies of Adams State University opened their 2026 campaign on a rainy night in Colorado, only to watch the Western New Mexico Mustangs surge ahead in a 62‑45 defeat that snapped a 29‑game winless streak dating back to the 2023 season.
While the final score reflected a comfortable margin, the game was punctuated by individual highlights, most notably from star running back Andre Branch, who broke loose for a 58‑yard and a 76‑yard touchdown run, finishing with 282 rushing yards and three scores.
Quarterback Frank Arcuri contributed both arms and legs, completing 13 passes for 151 yards and a touchdown while adding 75 rushing yards, and fullback Gabe McFarland chipped in 105 yards and a touchdown on the ground.
The Mustangs’ ground game proved overwhelming, amassing 485 rushing yards, highlighted by a 7‑yard plunge in the fourth quarter that capped a dominant performance by their offense.
Milestones and Momentum
Branch’s two long runs not only added to his career totals but also marked the first time in the season that the Grizzlies featured two 100‑yard rushers, a feat that underscored the team’s balanced attack despite the loss.
The aerial attack moved the ball effectively, gaining 627 total yards, with receiver Traven Vigenser catching four passes for 61 yards and LaFramboise adding a 32‑yard touchdown reception before being limited by the defense.
Defensively, Dominique Lampkin logged seven tackles and Ant Henry contributed six solo stops and two pass breakups, but the unit could not contain the Mustangs’ relentless rushing attack.
Looking ahead, the Grizzlies will travel to Texas to face Sul Ross State, hoping to translate their offensive fireworks into a win that could finally break the long‑standing drought.