Golden, Colo. — Under a crisp Colorado sky at Marv Kay Stadium, the Adams State football team showed flashes of grit and explosiveness in a challenging matchup against Colorado School of Mines. Despite the 72–14 final score, the Grizzlies left their mark with moments that showcased their determination and big-play ability.

After a tough first quarter, the Grizzlies found their rhythm behind senior quarterback Gavin Herberg, who sparked life into the offense midway through the second. Facing pressure from a stout Mines defense, Herberg broke free on a 16-yard touchdown run. 

Herberg wasn't done. Later in the quarter, he capped off another drive with a short rushing score, his second of the day, cutting into Mines' lead and energizing the Grizzly sideline. By game's end, Herberg had rushed for 163 yards on 13 carries, averaging more than 12 yards per attempt.

Through the air, Adams State had completions from both Herberg and Daelyn Williams, who connected on a 49-yard strike to Blaine Peebles, setting up one of the Grizzlies' scoring opportunities. Kahekili Pahio added 47 receiving yards on two grabs, giving the offense multiple threats downfield.

Defensively, Adams State showed heart against one of the top offenses in the RMAC. Freshman Mason Smiley led all tacklers with 14 stops, flying to the ball on nearly every series. Mafileo Tupou and Liam Finney anchored the middle with 10 tackles each, while Blake George and Tyler Griffin combined for the team's lone sack.

On special teams, Braden Biller continued his strong season, averaging 42.2 yards per punt, pinning Mines deep on multiple occasions. Quinton Pacheco was perfect on extra points and sent a kickoff into the end zone for a touchback.

Adams State (0–7, 0–5 RMAC) will look to carry that fight home next week when they return to Rex Stadium to face New Mexico Highlands for a 6 p.m. kickoff