LAS CRUCES, N.M. — It's been a tough couple of weeks for New Mexico State receiver Chris Williams.

The New Mexico State offense has struggled of late, scoring just 28 points in a three-game stretch. And the 5-foot-8, 157-pounder from Rio Rancho, N.M., has been battling a hamstring injury.

But yesterday the senior regained his form, catching seven passes for 221 yards and three touchdowns in a 42-30 loss to the University of Hawai'i at Aggie Memorial Stadium.

Williams caught touchdown passes of 84, 23 and 83 yards. It was the eighth time in his career that he has caught two or more touchdowns in a game and he has 30 touchdown receptions for his career.

With the 221 yards receiving, which tied a career best for a single game, he now has 1,009 receiving yards this season.

"I just want to win," Williams said. "We still have three games left and that's important because we can still be bowl-eligible."

Williams' big day came a week after he caught just four passes for 24 yards in a 49-0 loss to Boise State. Against the Broncos, he also had a fumble that set up a Boise State score.

"Chris has had to deal with an injury the past couple of weeks and that's tough," NMSU head coach Hal Mumme said. "But he battled back and had a great game against Hawai'i. He's a great kid and has had a great career. It was nice to see him have some big plays. It's fun to watch him play."

All three of Williams' touchdown passes were down the middle of the field. His first one was 44 seconds into the game, the second one came later in the first quarter and the third one came in the third period.

"We definitely wanted to get Chris the ball more today," NMSU quarterback Chase Holbrook said. "He was feeling good and he was able to get behind the Hawai'i defenders. Chris has great speed and he has a great knowledge of the offense."

Williams signed with NMSU out of high school after getting looks from the University of Ohio and Air Force.

"I love this offense," Williams said. "I've had a great chance to make plays and consistency has been a key. I have great people around me at all the key spots."