LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Caden Veltkamp showcased an impressive performance with 246 passing yards and two touchdowns, along with two additional touchdowns on the ground, leading Western Kentucky to a commanding 41-28 victory over New Mexico State on Saturday.

The game’s opening play set the tone, featuring a 54-yard touchdown pass from Veltkamp to Easton Messer just four plays in. Within three minutes, Veltkamp added to the scoring by rushing for a touchdown from the one-yard line, giving his team an early two-score advantage.

As the first quarter progressed, New Mexico State began to chip away at the lead, with Mike Washington scoring on a short 1-yard run. However, the Hilltoppers (7-2, 5-0 Conference USA) quickly responded, extending their lead to two touchdowns. This was achieved through an impressive lateral play that ended with Mike Williams connecting with Kisean Johnson for a 51-yard touchdown. Adding to their momentum, Lucas Carneiro capped off the half with a 42-yard field goal, putting Western Kentucky ahead 24-7.

After halftime, the Aggies (2-7, 1-5) fought back, as Washington found the end zone again with a 3-yard run, followed by another touchdown from Seth McGowan, who scored from 7 yards out. However, Veltkamp pushed the lead back for the Hilltoppers with a 3-yard rushing touchdown as the third quarter came to a close, making it 31-21. From this point, Western Kentucky maintained a comfortable lead for the remainder of the game.

Washington had a standout performance for New Mexico State, rushing for 152 yards on 19 carries and scoring two touchdowns, while McGowan added another 113 yards on 15 carries with a touchdown of his own.

With this victory, Western Kentucky continues to hold a tie for first place in Conference USA alongside Jacksonville State (6-3, 5-0).