ENMU blanks Alumni

CNJ staff photo: Liliana Castillo ENMU wide receiver Jessie Poku tries to elude Alumni defensive back Michael Fields (2) after catching a first-quarter pass during Saturday’s “Alumni Bowl II” football game at Greyhound Stadium.

BLACKWATER DRAW — There wasn’t much suspense in Alumni Bowl II.

Freshman quarterback Carl Bouldin threw three first-half touchdown passes and Eastern New Mexico University cruised past the Alumni 27-0 on Saturday at Greyhound Stadium.

In the first version of the event a year ago, the Greyhounds had their hands full before winning 28-20.

This time, ENMU took control from the outset, driving 81 yards in eight plays on its opening possession, capped by a 33-yard TD pass from Bouldin to freshman Justin Campos.

Bouldin then hit running back Joseph Banyard on an 11-yard scoring toss and Michael Beach on a 6-yarder in the second quarter, making it 21-0 at halftime.

The Hounds’ other touchdown came late in the third quarter when sophomore strong safety scooped up an errant lateral pass by Alumni quarterback Peter Juve and returned it 35 yards to the end zone.

Michael Benton, ENMU’s quarterback for the past three seasons, played wide receiver for the Alumni in this one and accumulated 102 yards in pass receptions, including a highlight-reel-worthy one-handed catch during the first half.

ENMU finished with a 12-4 edge in first downs and outgained the Alumni 209-74 for the game. The Hounds limited the Alumni to minus-41 yards rushing on 20 attempts.

The scrimmage brought to an end ENMU’s four-week session of spring drills. The Hounds will open their 2008 season on Aug. 30 against NAIA member Southern Nazarene at Bethany, Okla.