NDSU football drops to 6-2 with loss at New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO (KFYR) - Turnovers turned the tide of a North Dakota State football game once again this season. Nathan Hayes threw two interceptions, with one resulting in a pick six, as the Bison fell 21-16 on the road at New Mexico.

The game that was advertised as two of the best defenses in the country lived up to its expectations with just 17 total points scored in the first half. Hayes left the game for a short period of time with an injury, but returned after one drive.

NDSU took advantage of two missed Lobos field goals and scored on a Hayes to Reis Kessel touchdown pass early in the third quarter, but a missed point after attempt prevented the Bison from getting seven points on the board.

Hayes’ second interception early in the fourth quarter proved to be the difference maker as the Lobos took a 21-9 lead. Its Hayes’ third interception for a touchdown in eight games. He finished 17-for-33 with 198 yards.

The Bison quarterback helped cut the lead back to five points as he hit Mekhi Collins in the endzone to make it a 21-16 game with just under seven minutes to play.

NDSU had the ball with two minutes remaining in the game, but turned the ball over on downs to effectively end the game. With the win, New Mexico is bowl eligible as they move to 6-1 on the season.

Up next - NDSU returns home next Saturday to host UTEP for a 2:30 p.m. kickoff.