Blue Raiders End the Season With Heart — OT Thriller Win Over New Mexico State
LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Middle Tennessee ended its 2025 season with a resilient, composed performance on Saturday afternoon, defeating New Mexico State 31–24 in overtime at Aggie Memorial Stadium. The win marks the Blue Raiders’ second straight victory to close the year and provides a meaningful burst of momentum heading into the offseason.
Strong Response After Early Shock
New Mexico State struck immediately, scoring on the first play from scrimmage when quarterback Adam Damante connected with TK King for a 64-yard touchdown, giving the Aggies a quick 7–0 lead.
Middle Tennessee answered in equally explosive fashion.
On the Blue Raiders’ second offensive play, freshman running back DJ Taylor broke free for a 64-yard touchdown, tying the game and delivering MTSU’s longest run of the season. The early exchange set the tone for a back-and-forth contest defined by big plays and timely execution.
Photo courtesy of New Mexico State Athletics
Gagliano Leads Efficient First Half
MTSU built steady momentum throughout the first half, and late in the second quarter, quarterback Roman Gagliano orchestrated one of his most efficient drives of the season; an 86-yard, nine-play march that showcased confidence and poise.
Gagliano capped the drive by finding AJ Jones for a 24-yard touchdown, giving the Blue Raiders a 14–7 halftime advantage, which was ALSO their first halftime lead of the season.
Momentum Swings in the Second Half
Middle Tennessee extended its lead to 17–7 early in the third quarter with a 25-yard field goal from Jacob Hathaway, but New Mexico State refused to fade. The Aggies cut the deficit back to 17–14 and later took a 21–17 lead in the fourth quarter behind a short touchdown run from A. Damante.
The Blue Raiders responded under pressure.
Gagliano delivered a precise 19-yard touchdown pass to Landon Collins, putting MTSU ahead 24–21 with under seven minutes left.
New Mexico State forced overtime with a 35-yard field goal in the final minute of regulation.
Photo courtesy of the Daily News Journal
Overtime Execution Defines the Finish
In overtime, Middle Tennessee took the ball first and immediately capitalized. Gagliano found Jones again, this time for an 11-yard touchdown, his third scoring pass of the game.
The MTSU defense then closed the door.
New Mexico State’s possession unraveled with consecutive false starts, pushing the Aggies behind the chains. Backup quarterback Parker Awad failed to connect on three straight passes, sealing the win for the Blue Raiders.
A Positive Finish to a Challenging Season
The Blue Raiders close the year, again, at 3–9 (2–6 CUSA), but the final three weeks showcased noticeable growth, improved playmaking, and encouraging development from young contributors.
For head coach Derek Mason, the season-ending win serves as both a morale boost and a foundation for the program’s offseason direction.
Middle Tennessee now turns its attention to the ever-elusive transfer portal, recruiting, roster development, and capitalizing on the momentum built in November.. momentum that was solidified in Saturday’s overtime victory in Las Cruces.
