UNM defense dominates during practice as safety Marco Beltran shines

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 3:05 AM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

UNM defense dominates during practice as safety Marco Beltran shines

Summary

During Thursday's practice, UNM's defense outperformed the offense significantly. The defense recorded multiple would-be sacks and showcased strong performances from defensive ends Darren Agu and Albert Tuakalau, as well as linebacker Clay Martineau. Freshman safety Marco Beltran stood out with an interception, contributing to his rising status within the team. The team plans to hold its first scrimmage on Saturday at 10 a.m., following a session that highlighted both defensive prowess and offensive challenges.

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By the Numbers

•UNM defense had a strong showing in Thursday's practice.
•Marco Beltran intercepted a pass, earning recognition as player of the practice.
•Clay Martineau recorded multiple sacks over recent practices.
•First scrimmage is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m.
•Defensive coordinator Spence Nowinsky praised the defense's performance.

Latest Updates

3:05 AMYahoo Sports — UNM defense dominates as freshman safety shines

What they're saying

"
Some practices, it’s a fool’s errand to try and declare a winner on either side of the ball. The defense might dominate one team period. The offense might dominate the next. Sometimes it’s just a little too close to call, a little too black-and-white amid plenty of gray. That was not Thursday’s practice. On the second day of half pads, UNM’s defense jumped all over its offensive counterparts ...
— Yahoo Sports

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