Welcome to the HLC Superb Bowl halftime report, with the first week of the two-week championship now complete.

At the halfway mark, the New Mexico Lobos hold a 152–135 lead over the Austin Tourists. New Mexico has built its cushion behind strong performances from RB Bijan Robinson (39.9 points) and QB Drake Maye (32.4), while Austin remains well within striking distance thanks largely to a massive 45-point outing from RB Derrick Henry.

In the third-place game, i2^3∑π has opened up a 139–106 lead over Rockport, putting themselves in a strong position to finish on the podium. Rockport will need a big second week to close the gap, but there’s still enough time for things to shift.

Down in the consolation ladder, Tortilla Flats and Michiana remain close, with the Troubadours holding an early 108–100 edge. The Tacos and Jaybirds are also tightly matched, with the Birds clinging to the slimmest of leads at the half, 81–80, setting up another finish that likely won’t be decided until late.

One week down, one to go. Week 18 will decide whether the league’s most reliable title-game presence finally adds another trophy, or whether the defending champs can pull off a second-half comeback and make history of their own.