Grand Junction, Colo. — Adams State football showed fight early but couldn't keep pace with a high-powered Colorado Mesa offense Saturday night, falling 54–17 at Stocker Stadium.

The Grizzlies (0–6 overall, 0–4 RMAC) traded scores early, with senior quarterback Gavin Herberg connecting with freshman Garrett O'Brien for his first career touchdown on a 59-yard strike midway through the first quarter. Herberg later added a 4-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter, and Quinton Pacheco converted a 21-yard field goal as time expired in the half to bring Adams State within 27–17 at the break.

Colorado Mesa (3–3, 2–2 RMAC) pulled away in the second half behind a dominant ground game, racking up 357 rushing yards and eight total touchdowns.

Herberg led the Adams State offense with 146 passing yards, 87 rushing yards, and two total touchdowns. Running back Elijah Harris III added 54 total yards, while Geovonni Ribalta hauled in three receptions for 51 yards.

Defensively, freshman Anthony Clouatre led the Grizzlies with 11 tackles and a sack, while Benjamin Rodriguez added seven tackles.

Adams State continues its road stint next weekend with a trip to Colorado School of Mines. Kickoff is set for noon Saturday.