Devon Dampier Shines as New Mexico Claims Historic Win Over Top 25 Rival, Earns AP Player of the Week Honors

Dampier showcased remarkable skills during New Mexico’s thrilling 38-35 victory over Washington State on Saturday. The standout performer ran for three touchdowns and threw for another, solidifying his impact on the game.

In an electrifying finish, Dampier scored the game-winning touchdown with just 23 seconds remaining, leading the Lobos to their first triumph over a ranked opponent in 27 games. This win marked a significant milestone, the Lobos’ first victory against a ranked team since 2003.

Equally impressive, Dampier accumulated 193 yards rushing and 174 yards passing, demonstrating his versatility as a player. In the second half alone, he racked up 143 rushing yards, helping the Lobos rally from a 28-14 halftime deficit. His crucial 1-yard run capped an 11-play, 75-yard drive, securing the victory.

The Lobos now stand at 5-6 for the season, their highest win total since 2016. In other collegiate highlights, LaNorris Sellers propelled South Carolina to a 34-30 victory over Missouri with a last-minute touchdown pass, while Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson made headlines with a career-high 176 receiving yards in a win against Kansas State.

Further notable performances included Tampa Bay’s Cade Klubnik, who threw for two touchdowns and rushed for the go-ahead score against Pittsburgh, and Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, who set a new rushing record with 1,893 yards this season after a strong showing against San Jose State.

Kansas also celebrated a narrow 17-13 win over BYU, marking back-to-back victories against ranked teams, a first for the program. Meanwhile, Georgia extended its dominance over Tennessee with an eighth consecutive win, each by double digits.

In the American Athletic Conference, Tulane has enjoyed a prosperous run, achieving 22 wins in the last three seasons, compared to just 21 in its first eight years. Additionally, Memphis’ Seth Henigan made history as the only active FBS player with four seasons of 20 or more touchdown passes at the same school.

The Illinois football team secured its sixth home win against Michigan State, a feat unprecedented since 2001. Contrarily, Nebraska continues to struggle under Coach Matt Rhule, remaining bowl-ineligible for another season, marking the longest drought in the Power Five.

AP voters include Aaron Beard, Pat Graham, Gary B. Graves, and several others, contributing to the landscape of college football as the season progresses.