Murphy shines as UNM wins home opener

ALBUQUERQUE — The University of New Mexico Lobos football team (1-1) played its home opener Sept. 7 against the visiting Idaho State Bengals (0-3) in a 32-22 victory.

More than 17,000 fans were in attendance at University Stadium, and shining bright for the Lobos was safety David Murphy, a Cleveland High School graduate.

While at Cleveland, Murphy helped the Storm football team win two state titles and was also a standout track athlete.

Though listed as a safety, Murphy plays a “star” type of position on the defense, meaning he’s a versatile defender who plays all over the field.

In the first quarter of action, the driving Bengals were on the doorstep of a touchdown, and the Lobo defense was in search of a “momentum-swinger.”

It was first and goal, and Bengals quarterback Davis Harsin hit receiver Ian Duarte on a slant route. Duarte caught it, lost control and while the ball was in the air, Murphy snagged his first collegiate interception. The crowd erupted.

“That play was huge in the first quarter. It looks like they’re driving … a big play at the goal line. We got to keep making plays, keep having guys step up,” said linebacker Jaxton Eck, one of six captains on the UNM squad.

With some extra adrenaline, the Lobos offense would march down the field, and quarterback Jack Layne would score on a 7-yard rush. A couple possessions later, running back Scottre Humphrey scored a 61-yard rushing touchdown that sent Lobo Nation into celebration.

Near the conclusion of the second quarter, the Lobos’ held a 14-10 lead as the Bengals were nearing Lobo territory. On a crucial third down, Murphy came in clutch again. Idaho State’s Harsin escaped the pocket, began running upfield, and that’s when Murphy popped him, bringing up a fourth down. The drive resulted in no points for the Bengals.

At the half, Murphy had three total tackles, one tackle for loss and one interception.

Idaho State would take the lead in the third quarter after a 3-yard Tytan Mason run. However, the Lobos rushing attack prevailed as running back Damon Bankston scored from a yard out to retake the lead.

With less than two minutes to go in the game, Humphry would close the curtains with his second touchdown of the game on a 1-yard rush.

Throughout the spring and summer, head coach Jason Eck and the coaching staff praised Murphy for versatility and flexibility.

“That was great to see,” Eck said in the post-game presser.

“Guy from New Mexico, David Murphy, making a big play in the red zone to get that turnover,” Eck said.

The Lobos will have a quick turnaround and travel the West Coast for a Friday night showdown with UCLA (0-2). Kickoff is 8 p.m. local time.