UTEP Struggles with Sacks as Season Enters Final Stretch
The Miners currently rank last in the FBS for quarterback sacks allowed as they prepare for a matchup against North Dakota State.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football
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The UTEP Miners hold a 1-6 overall record and sit at the bottom of the FBS rankings in sacks allowed per game. The team has surrendered 36 sacks throughout the current season, including 11 in their most recent matchup against San Jose State.
Why it matters
The team faces significant offensive hurdles, including struggles with pass protection, receiver route running, and quarterback decision-making speed. Head coach Scotty Walden is now looking to integrate players with fewer snaps to address these issues during the final five games of the season.
UTEP ranks 138th out of 138 FBS teams in sacks allowed per game with 36 sacks sustained this season. The offense currently averages 15.1 points per game and maintains a 25% third-down success rate.
The players
Scotty Walden
He serves as the head coach of the UTEP football team and is currently managing the team through a difficult season.
EJ Colson
He is a UTEP quarterback who has thrown for 7 touchdowns and 3 interceptions this season.
Raymond Moore III
He is a UTEP quarterback who has rushed for 414 yards across 67 attempts.
The details
The coaching staff is conducting intensive video reviews of all 36 sacks to identify failures in protection and timing. Quarterbacks EJ Colson and Raymond Moore III are sharing duties, with Moore III contributing 414 rushing yards on 67 attempts.
Timeline
UTEP plays North Dakota State at 2:30 p.m. on November 1, 2026.
Season Trajectory
UTEP's current standing at the bottom of the FBS rankings reflects a challenging season that has left the team with a 0-3 conference record. The upcoming games are critical for the coaching staff to evaluate new personnel and attempt to shift the team's momentum before the season concludes.
Miners fans should note that EJ Colson is currently listed as day-to-day for the upcoming game against North Dakota State. The offense will face a stiff challenge against an NDSU defense that allows an average of only 12.5 points per game.
The takeaway
The coaching staff is focused on immediate roster adjustments to improve offensive line protection and decision-making speed. These final five games will be instrumental in setting the team's direction for the remainder of the year.
Further reading
For more news on the team, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by INFORUM.
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