New Mexico defeated Central Michigan 38-7 in Week 1 of the 2026 season, with the Lobos controlling the game from start to finish. New Mexico scored touchdowns in the first three quarters, building a commanding 15-point lead by halftime before extending it to 15-0 after three quarters. Central Michigan managed only a fourth-quarter touchdown to avoid a shutout.

Toa Faavae led New Mexico's offense with 43 passing yards, while DJ Darling paced the receiving corps with 9 catches. For Central Michigan, Nicholas Woodford led the ground attack with 8 rushing yards.

The game remained one-sided throughout, with no lead changes occurring. New Mexico's defense forced a crucial interception in the second quarter when Xavier Slayton picked off Austin Flores. Central Michigan's lone offensive touchdown came late when N. Williams rushed for a 23-yard score in the fourth quarter.

The home Lobos covered the 11-point spread, and the game finished under the 47-point over-under total.