Hawaii rallies past New Mexico State after brief tie for first 2026 win

Hawaii earned its first win of the 2026 season Saturday, defeating New Mexico State 29-19 at Clarence T.C. Ching Complex to improve to 1-2 and remain unbeaten against the Aggies at home. Quarterback Micah Alejado completed 33 of 45 passes for 346 yards, while running back DeVon Rice scored twice and kicker Sean Olvera-Harle made three field goals. Wide receivers Tama Uiliata and Audric Harris each topped 100 yards, with Uiliata also throwing a late 7-yard touchdown pass to Frank Abreu on a fourth-down play. New Mexico State briefly tied the game at 19 on a fumble-return touchdown after Alejado took a hard hit, but Hawaii regained control with a field goal, forced three turnovers and prevented the Aggies from scoring in the second half.