Mavericks to Host New Mexico Highlands Saturday
Colorado Mesa University faces the New Mexico Highlands Cowboys at Stocker Stadium on October 31.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Football
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The Colorado Mesa University Mavericks host the New Mexico Highlands Cowboys at Stocker Stadium on October 31, 2026. This matchup follows a season where the Mavericks defeated the Chadron State Eagles 30-20, while the Cowboys fell to that same opponent 59-17.
Why it matters
The Mavericks are seeking a win to avenge a loss to the Cowboys from the previous season. Colorado Mesa looks to exploit a New Mexico Highlands defense that has struggled to contain opposing rushing attacks this year.
The Cowboys defense is allowing 5.7 yards per carry and has surrendered 16 rushing touchdowns this season. Conversely, the Mavericks have successfully scored on 17 consecutive trips into the red zone.
The players
Colorado Mesa University Mavericks
This is a collegiate football team based in Grand Junction that competes in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.
New Mexico Highlands University Cowboys
The Cowboys are a college football program currently holding a 3-5 season record.
The details
Colorado Mesa intends to use a rushing strategy involving multiple players capable of recording over 50 yards to challenge the Cowboys. New Mexico Highlands expects to rely on defensive blitzes to load the box and stall the Mavericks attack.
Timeline
October 31, 2026, marks the scheduled game at Stocker Stadium.
October 2026 saw the Mavericks defeat the Chadron State Eagles.
2011 and 2012 were the last seasons the Cowboys beat CMU in consecutive games.
Season Trajectory
This game serves as a critical test for the Mavericks to maintain their momentum following their win over Chadron State. A victory would improve their standing within the conference while deepening the defensive struggles for a Cowboys team that has lost four consecutive games.
The Mavericks enter the contest having scored on 17 consecutive red zone trips, providing a high-efficiency benchmark for their offensive performance. With the Cowboys defense allowing an average of 211 rushing yards per game, the focus remains on the Mavericks ability to sustain their high-volume ground attack.
The takeaway
The Mavericks rely on a balanced rushing attack that has proven difficult to stop this season. Fans should watch if the Cowboys defensive blitzes can force Colorado Mesa into passing situations inside the red zone.
Further reading
For more updates on the Mavericks, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kkco11news.
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