NMPreps.com's Top 50 Spring Football Rankings
Grine of NMPreps.com
No. 1 Rio Rancho Rams
Head Coach: David Howes
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: The Rio Rancho Rams reached the quarterfinals of the 2015 New Mexico state tournament falling to Las Cruces, 55-14. Despite the loss the Rams have their eyes looking forward to the 2016 state championship as one of the deepest teams in New Mexico. Departing is QB Steven Bailey who threw for 2,137-yards along with 17 touchdowns for the Rams last season along with Wide Receiver Brian Drake who caught for 657-yards last season. Returning is Nic Little at QB, a 6-3 player with the size and arm strength to get the Rams to state championship level. The prospect to keep an eye on is Little but the star is Josh Foley the sure thing D-1 prospect that ran for 1,081-yards and 15 touchdowns last season along with 437 receiving yards with 4 touchdowns (19 total TDs). Dakota Carrasco returns for his senior season after passing for 145-yards, running for 159-yards for a total of 3 touchdowns as a junior. Vinny Palmeri returns for his senior campaign on a talented defensive after leading the team in total tackles at 92. Trey Parnell, 83 tackles return on defense to provide a championship level worthy of the number one team in New Mexico. Another prospect that tops the list is D-1 bound OL Logan Hertz, who ranks as one of the best at his position to start the season. District 1-6A has No. 2 Cleveland, No 12 Volcano, No. 17 Cibola and No. 18 Piedra Vista o the Top-25.
No. 2 Cleveland Storm
Head Coach: Heath Ridenour
2015 Record: 13-0
2016 Early Outlook: The custom for most predictions have grown accustomed to listing Cleveland High School as one of the top teams in New Mexico football no matter what players depart. The Storm for the second time in the young history of the school had an undefeated season (13-0) to go along with their second New Mexico State Championship in 2015. Departures on both sides of the ball but those vacancies seem to have been filled for the most part. Departing is two University of New Mexico commits in QB Gabe Ortega, 2,486 yards and 25 touchdowns and Marcus Williams who had 872 receiving yards with 13 touchdowns. Jordan Garcia also leaves the defensive with 73 total tackles last season along with Henry Hattis, the Stanford commit. On to 2016, Angelo Trujillo, 2018, only has 3-attempts under his varsity belt but already being considered one of the top quarterbacks in the state he'll replace Ortega. Leading rushing Shawn Nieto, 2017, returns as the leading rusher who had 931-yards and 18 touchdowns. Likely, the next D-1 ready player is Adam Cook a TE who had 452-yards and 3 touchdowns last season. Sean Davis (2017) and Brendon Armstead (2017) return on the defensive side of the ball, Davis led the team with 75-total tackles. The schedule does provide is share of challenges this season and open the season taking on No. 9 Onate in Las Cruces.
No. 3 Eldorado Eagles
Head Coach: Charlie Dotson
2015 Record: 10-3
2016 Early Outlook: Surprised? You shouldn't be. There's no reason to think the Eldorado Eagles won't be capable of making a top-3 finish in the follow-up to a State Runner Up season. The 2015 season had the Eagles win 10-games with some impressive scoring outcomes, a pair of 70-point games (one came in the state tournament). Charlie Dotson continues to prove that his system will be right there with those teams that might boast talented players. However, this Eagles team won't be shy of talent either as they could be deeper, tougher and be a more well rounded team in 2016. One player that you need to know is 5'10, 250lbs running back Elias Baker who will, has, run over defenders. Taking the reigns at QB is a confident senior in Matt Denis, who could be one of the better newcomer QB's with experience. Add in Bryce Wade, a 6-foot-7, 230 pound prospect along with 6-foot-3 255 pound tackle in Adam Clark creating this deep (somehow underrated) team that will prove their worth this season. The Eagles play in District 2-6A and open their season on August 2 at Community season against Las Cruces High School.
No. 4 Mayfield Trojans
Head Coach: Michael Bradley
2015 Record: 9-4
2016 Early Outlook: Another football season, another push for the state championship. The Trojans finished 2015 with a 9-4 record and playing in the state semi-finals falling to eventual state champion Cleveland High School. Mayfield will reload across the board, with only minimal concerns around their offensive line. The Trojans will also replace quarterback Joeray Valencia who passed for over 2,000-yards last season. His replacement has plenty of excitement surrounding his impending start as Torry Locklin (2018) looks to be the reload at quaterback for the Trojans. The two names to know this season and likely have seen the headlines as Isaac Vance returns at running back after rushing for over 2,200-yards and scoring around 30 touchdowns during his junior campaign. The other name that is hot is Gavin Swinson the stud receiver who caught for 1,200-yards in his junior season. The Trojans a contender this season will play in a difficult realigned district 3-6A this season with 4 of the 6 teams ranked in the Top-10 this preseason. The Trojans open the season on August 26th at home against the Rio Rancho Rams.
No. 5 Las Cruces Bulldawgs
Head Coach: Mark Lopez
2015 Record: 9-4
2016 Early Outlook: Another of New Mexico's top program will have a new head coach as Jim Miller who led the Bulldawgs for 18 years and 6 state championship. Like Artesia Bulldogs, these Dawgs handed the duties of head coach to a longtime assistant. Mark Lopez an assistant for 18 years with Miller will take over and take the Bulldawgs on it's next step. The Bulldawgs not only lose Miller the head coach but Miller the quarterback who signed with the University of New Mexico. Kameron Miller passed for 2,199-yards, 17 touchdowns along with rushing for 1,5442-yards and 26 touchdowns. Now to that next step, they have a junior stud ready to breakout in the backfield in Payton Ball who had 656 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns last season as a sophomore. Also, from the 2018 class will be Brandon Baeza a WR who caught for 1,265-yards and 10 touchdowns. The shoes are big to fill at QB and HC but Lopez has two great pieces as both Ball (No. 3 NMPreps Top 40 Prospects from 2018) and Baeza (No. 1 NMPreps Top 40 Prospects from 2018) are ranked as top prospects from the 2018 class. The Bulldawgs now play in a tough District 3-6A with the likes of Carlsbad, Centennial and Gadsden along with Hobbs, Mayfield and Onate.
No. 6 Artesia Bulldogs
Head Coach: Rex Henderson
2015 Record: 12-1
2016 Early Outlook: New head coach Rex Henderson has some big shoes to fill in replacing Cooper Henderson on the Artesia sideline. The good news for the Bulldogs? Henderson, is a Henderson, and is part of the Bulldog family being an assistant for the last 15-years, more importantly the receivers coach and the Bulldogs return some talent at that position. The 2015 football season brought another state championship to Artesia after a 12-1 season. Gone is another great Artesia quarterback in Justin Houghtaling who passed for 3,375-yards, rushed for 354 and totaled 36-touchdowns. Those shoes will be filled by a rising prospect in Taylor Null, a 2018 prospect, who had experience last season totaling for 958-yards and 7 touchdowns. Another athlete returning is Isaiah Weideman who rushed for 396 and had 320 receiving yards. Also, returning is one of the top players in the state in Ethan Duff who had 1,028 receiving yards in 2015. Adding to the talent is Top-3 prospect in 5A in Marcus Bramwell an OL who is raining college interest at 6-foot-4 and 265-pounds. The Bulldogs an early favorite returning to District 4-5A along with the number one contender for 5A title again as they go for the 3-peat.
No. 7 Clovis Wildcats
Head Coach: Eric Roanhaus
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: The expectations in Clovis are high every football season having a legendary head football coach and this season like others has the bar set very high. The Wildcats could have one of the best running back cores in the state as they return two backs that could go for 1,000-yards and they nearly did in 2015. The Wildcats finished the 2015 regular season going 4-0 and reaching the state tournament. The Wildcats suffer a heavy loss in Drew Hatley who signed to play football at the next level after passing for 1,041-yards and 9-touchdowns. The defense returns a wealth of talent as well but graduates some talent as well. Looking at 2016 we have to start with a Top-5 runningback in Micah Gray a 2017 prospect that rushed for 1,100-yards, 13 touchdowns in only 8 of 11 games for the Wildcats. His replacement, a 2018 prospect, Seth Lopez also returns after gaining 795-yards on 9-touchdowns. Another stud returning is DE Fernando Acosta (Sr) who had 89-tackles and 9-sacks is one of the 2017 prospects to keep a close eye on. The Wildcats open the season on August 30th, against rival Hobbs High School before a tough schedule with the likes of Rio Rancho and newly district rival Eldorado, two teams that are favorites to win it all.
No. 8 Centennial Hawks
Head Coach: Aaron Ocampo
2015 Record: 12-1
2016 Early Outlook: Aaron Ocampo has quickly built a football program at New Mexico's newest high school. Only opening their doors in 2012 the Centennial Hawks achieved an outstanding season in 2015 going 10-0 during the regular season with wins over Las Cruces, Los Lunas and Onate eventually playing for their first state championship. The Centennial Hawks lose wide receiver Bryce Rewalt who had 12-touchdowns on 670-yards on the offense along with Jake Boykin on the defensive who had 81-tackles. Minus those two players the Centennial Hawks return a wealth of talent, becoming a threat in their first season in 6A football moving up from 5A. First we start with one of the top returning QB's in football this season in Dante Lopez who threw for 1,525-yards and 28-touchdowns in 2015. Add in Junior Pena at the wide receiver to create a dominate duo for next season after catching for 662-yards and 12 touchdowns last season. The Hawks will move into District 3-6A with Carlsbad, Gadsden, Hobbs, Las Cruces along with Mayfield and Onate in 2016.
No. 9 Onate Knights
Head Coach: Brent Jaquess
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Knights move into the 2016 with some momentum on their side, finishing the 2015 season 4-2 after an 0-4 start. The Knights return a handful of top skill positioned players minus graduating Jovan Guardian a wide receiver who caught for 550-yards and 5-touchdowns in only 8-games for the Knights. Last season was the first year under head coach Brent Jaquess and one of the teams with the younger starting line-ups with a handful of 2017 team members. One of the top players returning is linebacker Forest McKee who has a several options at the next level with more to come. McKee, had 122-total tackles on the season. The Knights also return their top four total tackle leaders in Jaime Villela (Sr), Mathew Young (Sr) and James Martin (Sr) creating one of the top returning defending teams. Young like McKee is a division-1 player as a New Mexico State commit. Little mentioned but the Knights return quarterback Tony Herrera who had 1,100 passing yards and 12 touchdowns. Also, on offensive, maybe forgotten because of his defense but Forest McKee who rushed for 717-yards and 7-touchdowns. The Knights schedule only gets tougher in 2016 with a district flooded with top 6A teams with the addition of Hobbs, Carlsbad and Centennial to original members Las Cruces and Mayfield.
No. 10 Hobbs Eagles
Head Coach: Charles Gleghorn
2015 Record: 7-5
2016 Early Outlook: After a 0-2 last season the Eagles went on to win the next 4 of 5 games on their way to a 7-5 season that resulted in a playoff birth and round one win. That team also had one of the top quarterbacks in the state in Isaac Amaya who tossed the ball for 3,641-yards and 39 touchdowns. To make matters worse the Eagles lose Jeremy Padilla who rushed for 1,237-yards and 13 touchdowns along with wide receiver Devin Beard who caught for 1,474-yards and 20 touchdowns. That alone is a lot to replace and the outlook for next season is one with plenty of holes to fill along with entering a new, stronger, district to compete in with the Las Cruces powers. On offense the key name to know is wide receiver Cason Clay (Sr) who had 543-yards and 6 touchdowns last season. The defense is a similar narrative as they have plenty of openings that will eventually be filled with new names. Bright news is the leading defender Caleb Beaird (Sr) returns after posting 120 tackles in 2015.
No. 11 Manzano Monarchs
Head Coach: Chris Adcox
2015 Record: 7-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Monarchs had a season solid season in 2015 with a playoff birth with a win in the opening round. The Monarchs also had an impressive win over Mayfield finishing the season at 7-5. The bad news looking forward to the 2016 season is the loss Orlando Perez who at quarterback passed for 833-yards, 6 touchdowns along with rushing for 972-yards with 11 touchdowns. The defense also loses its top defender in Bryson Watts who had 82-totals tackles (63 solo). Overall, looking forward however the defense might be in the best situation as they had a young defense filled with 2017 class members including Alejandro Vallejos (72 TT) and Cameron Herrera (68 TT). Returning on the offense is Jordan Byrd, who has an offer from the University of New Mexico, the running back rushing for 641-yards with a 9.2 average per carry. His carries and numbers should make a leap this season. The Monarchs stay in District 2-6A in the alignment of districts but will the district to be tougher with Clovis moving in, along with Eldorado and Sandia being top returning teams.
Cameron Herrera - MLB
No. 12 Volcano Vista Hawks
Head Coach: Chris Wallin
2015 Record: 6-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Volcano Vista Hawks went 6-5 last season, making the 2015 State Tournament. The Hawks are an exciting team moving forward but will take a hit losing a quarterback that threw for 2,274-yards and 26-touchdowns in Josh Williams. They also lost some depth in the running back and wide receiver spots and will look to some youth or players going to get experience on the season. Now to the bright side for the Hawks and head coach Chris Wallin, one of the top prospects that will come out of the program is looking to place himself among the best in David Cormier. Cormier, has received offers from New Mexico State and the University of New Mexico lately. Two other players that could be in store for big years as players little mentioned. Dillion Gassoway a senior quarterback has looked confident this summer and will fill in well for departing Williams. Running the ball is Chris Streetz, ranked in the Top-10 RBs returning had 750-yards last season and 7-touchdowns. Playing along side Cormier is 6-foot-4 junior Joren Dickey who creates a killer 1-2 punch. The defense could be taking the biggest hit, graduating plenty but welcome back OLB/DE Isaac Martinez who was second in tackles at 65, 2 sacks and 1 interception. The district is difficult with the likes of Cleveland, Rio Rancho and Cibola to go along with the addition of Piedra Vista. The Hawks open the season on August 27th against Valley High School.
David Cormier (WR)
No. 13 La Cueva Bears
Head Coach: Brandon Beck
2015 Record: 3-7
2016 Early Outlook: La Cueva is a program with plenty of potential heading into the 2016 football season. The Bears program was once known as the best in the Albuquerque area and they look to challenge again this season with a strong roster of players. La Cueva went 3-7 last season without a playoff birth but were within a touchdown, showing a strong defensive presence in a offensive game. Flying under the radar is Chris Campbell a senior quarterback poised for a breakout season and could have his numbers jump with a pass heavy offense. The Bears also return a Top 60 player for 6A football in two-way player Josh Woisin (LB/RB). Another player to keep a close eye on is running back is Thomas Bui (Sr). Derek Loidolt a Linebacker is a junior to watch as he was ranked in the Top 10 returning juniors in 6A football. The Bears will have their hands full with a new, stronger district with the addition of Clovis and teams that are looking to be in the better half with Sandia and Manzano along with the state runner up Eldorado Eagles. La Cueva opens the season on August 24th against the Cibola Cougars.
Quarterback Chris Campbell
No. 14 Alamogordo Tigers
Head Coach: Dale Hooper
2015 Record: 6-4
2016 Early Outlook: The 2015 Tigers sprinted to a 6-0 start last season before dropping the final four contests. The Tigers have have steady improvements under coach Dale Hooper and they have pieces in place to be a state champion contender as they make the transition to 5A, from 6A under the new alignment. The Tigers have lost some pieces in the likes of lead reciever Julian Segura who had 894-yards last season along with Hunter Graham who rushed for 1,155-yards. Replacing those two will bring some difficulty but returning is one of the top quarterbacks in the state in Kyle Hooper who's numbers are among the best with 2,674-passing yards, 398-rushing yards and a total of 29 touchdowns (22-passing touchdowns). Alex Ramirez also returns as one of the top players for the Tigers with headline numbers of 805-yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Ramirez, might see his numbers take a jump with the bigger role. The Tigers now will battle in District 3-5A with the likes of Chaparral, Santa Teresa and Deming who also moves down from 6A. The Tigers will open the season on August 26th with a match up on the road at Valencia High School.
No. 15 Sandia Matadors
Head Coach: Kevin Baker
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: After winning 7-games in somewhat of a transition year, Sandia is poised to make a serious run at the title. Most of the roster returns and that starts with three or four college level players. The Matadors started the season with a loss but was one of the few teams to not lose back-to-back games all season which is the growing pains for a program set to excel in the following season. In fact, they have been building for two years now and it looks to be third years a charm, first you look at the quarterback position. Jacob Archibeque (Sr) passed for 894-yards along with rushing for 67-yards. I'm telling you now he is one of the top quarterbacks by seasons end. Next, is a pick of liter in the backfield led by Estevan Leyba (Jr) who had 246-yards rushing but you should expected more touches. A new name this season and one that won't take long to know is Devin Woosley (Sr/Wr) who has solid hands, athleticism and overall passion. On the defensive end of the ball you have to next level ready players in Jacob Barnhill (Sr/6-foot-3/DE) and Ben Bertram (DE/6-foot-3/Sr) who has offers from Adams State and New Mexico Highlands. Don't sleep on Sandia, this could be the biggest dark horse ranked 15th (for now).
Sandia QB Jacob Archibeque
No. 16 Carlsbad Cavemen
Head Coach: Gary Bradley
2015 Record: 2-9
2016 Early Outlook: Without looking at the entire schedule, the Cavemen ended the season on a high note with a win, going 2-2 in the final four games. The momentum is on the right path for the Cavemen as they enter the second year under state champion head coach Gary Bradley. The Cavemen will have to replace a vital part to their line in Justin Sims who signed with New Mexico Highlands. Last season, the Cavemen lost two-year starter at quarterback to an injury against Artesia but hope he returns healthy for the 2016 season. Jonah Leyva (Sr) looks to return under quarterback but also has junior to be Nate Arrington who could get looks. More great news moving forward for the Cavemen, who like to run as a triple-option team, is they return a stud in Jaykan Willis (RB/Jr.). A two-way player that could be among the best returning players. The entire backfield returns including Colby Watts (Jr) and Carlos Zacarias (Jr). After graduating a lot last summer you have to like many players that will have a year under their belt of the Bradley era.
No. 17 Cibola Cougars
Head Coach: Roderick Williams
2015 Record: 6-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Cougars opened the 2015 season winning five of their six non-district games. The season resulted in a playoff birth and a finish of 6-5. Rod Williams' team should have some momentum moving forward with the return of a 1,321-passing QB, 907-yard rushing RB and a talented 2017 class. The quarterback that returns is Gannon Chavez (Sr) who accounted for 6-touchdowns along with 1,321-yards. Kazyan Martin (Sr) is the highlight player for the Cougars in 2016 and could be an early Mr. Football prospect with 1,013 all purpose yards (907 rushing). The new prospect on the rise will be Joaquin Espitia-Candelaria who could see his numbers rise (168-rushing/148-receiving). Looking at the schedule for 2016 it only gets tougher with dates with Las Cruces, a better Carlsbad team and the addition of Piedra Vista in district replacing Santa Fe.
No. 18 Piedra Visa Panthers
Head Coach: Jared Howell
2015 Record: 9-3
2016 Early Outlook: Piedra Vista will be a wild card team as they move to 6A football from 5A in 2016. The Panthers went 9-3 with a semi-final appearance in last seasons' 5A state tournament. They have some talented prospects returning but will miss a talent in two-way player Scott Ramirez and Shawn Morris. As we move forward we have to mention key prospects in Elijah Gamboa (QB/Sr) who had 1,500all purpose yards along with scoring 18-touchdowns. Throw in ATH Alex Shay who had over 1,000-yards of offense a solid special teams player. The biggest draw to the Panthers is BIG12 Texas Texas University commit Dylan Weaver a 6-foot-7, 280 pound OL. Weaver, is one of two New Mexico prospects signing to a Big 5 school. Not only does the transition to 6A hurt but they enter the toughest district in 6A (or the state - both debatable). District 1-6A features the 2015, 2014 and 2011 State Champs in the Rio Rancho powers. The Panthers will kick off the season with crosstown rival Farmington on August 26th at Farmington.
Dylan Weaver (OL/Sr) a Texas Tech commit.
No. 19 Albuquerque Bulldogs
Head Coach: Curtis Flakes
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: When considering the top coaches in the state you have to take a look at Curtis Flakes who brought life to a Bulldog football program that had no pulse for years. Albuquerque High were 0-30 in the three seasons' prior to the hiring of Flakes, under Flakes they are 8-12 in two years. 2016 could be a bit of a rebuilding mode as they graduate their top two quarterbacks, their rushing game along with a depleted defense. It appears that the first hole on the offense has been filled with ATH Roel Pavia taking snaps at the quarterback position this summer. The player to watch on the offense will bethe main target for Pavia in Santiago Williams a wide receiver who caught for 445-yards with 5-total touchdowns. Kano Nious (DB/Sr) and David Marquez (DE/Sr) will look to be the returning tandem on the defense and bring the most game time experience for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs open the season with Centennial on Aug. 26th (Milne Stadium). District 4-6A, has an open door policy this season as any of the teams with a chance to take the title. The realignment has Rio Grande, Valley, West Mesa along with Highland and Atrisco Heritage.
Roel Pavia (ATH) taking snaps at QB this summer.
No. 20 Atrisco Heritage Academy Jaguars
Head Coach: Patrick Johnson
2015 Record: 5-6
2016 Early Outlook: After a 1-5 start to the 2015 season the Jaguars finished strong at 4-1 with a bid to the state tournament. The Jaguars relied on running back Aaron Bean, who led the team with 1,314-yards and 14-touchdowns. The Jaguars offense will have a huge overhaul with a new QB, RB and WR. The Jaguars look to take a small step back with an inexperienced roster seeing plenty of junior getting the call. Richard Tucker (2018) could get the call at running back playing in 9-games for 136-yards scoring 2-touchdowns last season. Neil Smith (2018) another prospect who had 319 all purpose yards could be another player to keep an eye on for the Jaguars. Turning to the strength for the Jaguars is on the defensive end of the ball as Jose Ramirez (2019) led the team in tackles as freshmen with 78-total tackles (34 solo). A player we seen this summer and like is Valentino Morris (2017) who was second on the team in total tackles (75) and could be one on the rise in player rankings. Morris also led in sacks at 4 for the Jaguars in only 9-games. Looking at 4-6A next season the Jaguars, even with an inexperienced roster, could be one of the favorites but this season it will be dogfight for the playoff bid for a one-bid league.
Morris (DE) is one of the leading prospects for the Jaguars.
No. 21 Deming Wildcats
Head Coach: Fernando Holguin Jr.
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: Unlike its new district foe in the Alamogordo Tigers the Deming Wildcats enter 5A football with some uncertainty. The Wildcats finished the season at 4-6 without a playoff birth and they graduate a star athlete. The expectations will be higher with the drop to 5A even though they had success last season, better than advertised, however the eligibility of Dante Urrea has expired after a 1,261-rushing, 623-passing, 98-receiving and 20-touchdown season. Urrea's number one target from the receiving core Christian Metz (168-yard) returns for his senior season. Also, Mando Perales looks poised to be the running back for the Wildcats after 110-yard season on 24-carries. On the defensive end of the ball it is Urrea again to replace along with a handful of defensive players and could be the biggest question mark this season.
No. 22 Los Lunas Tigers
Head Coach: Terrell Trantham
Record: 6-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Tigers won 6 games in a transition year, now poised to challenge for a state championship. Most of the roster returns intact but the Tigers have to replace their quarterback who passed for 1,076-yards last season. Los Lunas also return as a favorite in their new district after being runner up last season but will have to battle new district foe St. Pius X whom they lost to in the first round of the state tournament. The Tigers also have, likely one of the biggest recruits to walk the halls of Los Lunas High School. O'maury Samuels who early committed to University Michigan a Big Ten school rushed for 1,468-yards and 21-touchdowns. It's uncertain who will be throwing the ball but the Tigers return weapons to throw the ball at including another next level player in Trevor Brohard. Brohard is ranked in the Top-5 returning TE's for the 2016 season and has interest from Western State. Brohard is also the top defender but the Tigers have a sophomore in Michael Montoya who could be a top players in his classification after having 35-tackles as a freshman. The Tigers. Looking forward at the Tigers schedule they will play against 5A playoff teams from a year ago in Aztec, Roswell and Artesia. A date circle will be during week two on September 2nd against Alamogordo.
No. 23 Goddard Rockets
Head Coach: Chris White (1st Year)
2015 Record: 6-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Rockets stayed in-house with the hiring of Chris White as the head coach for the 2016 season. The Rockets are coming off a 6-6 season behind a difficult schedule that featured 6-playoff teams along with winning their opening round game in the State Tournament. The Rockets lose a top defensive player in Ethan Featherstone a linebacker along with taking a hit to their offense was losing running back Lukas Gutierrez who rushed for 1,000-yards. Looking forward to the 2016 season we have to target 2018 Quarterback Cameron Stevenson who accounted for more than 1,000-yards of offense and scored over 15-touchdowns in 2015. Another prospect high on our radar is ATH Devon Quiroz a quality defensive back and top rated kick return man. The district stays the same during the realignment with some football rich programs in defending state champs, Artesia High School along with a dark horse in Roswell. Lovington, is going through transition but could be trap team this season.
No. 24 Valley Vikings
Head Coach: Judge Chavez
2015 Record: 3-7
2016 Early Outlook: The Valley Vikings enter a new era under veteran head coach Judge Chavez - the former Cibola head coach - looks to inherit an experienced team. The Vikings took a dip last season falling well under .500 at 3-7, missing out on the 2015 State Tournament. The good news for the Vikings moving forward is welcoming back quarterback Isaiah Chavez (2017) who passed for 1,540-yards, 12-touchdowns along with 1-rushing touchdown. In the backfield they do lose leading rusher Michael Barboa, but welcome back two-star athlete Segun Oyeku who ran for 279-yards on 49-carries last season. The hit comes from graduating the top two receivers and will look to junior Xavier Ortiz along with Ezequiel Renter. Also, a new name to watch is Jonathan Sierra who had a quality day this summer during the Metro Passing League. On the defensive end of the ball the leader appears to be in the hands of Keno Garcia a middle linebacker who was third on the team in total tackles. Final word, is the Vikings play in a winnable district but it will be a dogfight with the continuing progress it has shown. Judge Chavez has coached some experienced quarterbacks to the next level during his tenure at Cibola but it will be interesting to see if they let it fly as much as the Vikings have recently let it fly. Schedule is difficult pre-district with Alamogordo and Volcano Vista two top ranked teams.
No. 25 St. Pius X Sartans
Head Coach: San Juan Mendoza
2015 Record: 10-2
2016 Early Outlook: The Sartans are a dangerous team returning in 5A football. Coach San Juan Mendoza's team returns a strong defense and boast a standout quarterback. Last season, the Sartans ran to 10-wins, a playoff with over Los Lunas in the first round before eventually falling in the second round to Artesia 27-21. The Sartans return the number two prospect in the NMPreps.com 5A returning players for the 2017 graduating class and top quarterback in Drew Ortiz. The offense is set up to be one of the more balanced teams with a good receiving core and handful of returning experience. The defense is set up to be dominate this season circled by the classifications top linebacker core in Jared Vigil (2017), Austin Schull (2017/6'1'') and Adrian Leon (2017/6'2''). The district will be tough with another 5A state title contender in Los Lunas along with a Belen team that has the potential to be dominate. We can't forget about the sleeper in Valencia either in this tough district next season.
No. 26 Belen Eagles
Head Coach: Greg Hennington (1st year)
2015 Record: 3-7
2016 Early Outlook: It's a new era for Belen High School, as John Lerma's tenure has come to an end over the summer. The Eagles, though very young, underachieved to a very high standard - that Lerma built. New head coach Greg Hennington inherits a roster of young promising talent that could be one of the best teams in 5A football this season. The Eagles will be a dark horse contender for the District 5-5A title behind several 2018 class members. Thomas Wisneski, a sophomore quarterback last season returns for his junior season. Wisneski, put it on the ground and also through the air with over 400-yards rushing and over 600-yards passing. Henderson, will have a pick of his choice when it comes to the backfield as they return 6/7 from the depth chart, same goes with the WR core as they return the majority of the depth chart. Mateo Romero, brings in some senior leadership as one of junior returning studs as he both ran the ball along with a few catches for over 150-yards. The Eagles clearly have some young talent set up for success the next three years and will battle in a new district with St. Pius X, Grants, along with county mates in Valencia and Los Lunas.
No. 27 Roswell Coyotes
Head Coach: Jeff Lynn
2015 Record: 8-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Coyotes pulled a nice surge in the third season under coach Jeff Lynn running towards 8-wins and a state tournament playoff, winning the opening round game 52-14 over Aztec. Will this over .500 type of season continue into 2016 or will there be a small drop off? The Coyotes lose Dominic Anaya who passed for 1,001-yards, rushed for 677-yards and accumulated 27 touchdowns (16 rushing). That only could result in a tiny step back, losing an athete who impacted what they did. The good news, Luis Mendoza (2016) returns and an athlete in his own rushing for 620-yards and caught for 108-yards. Also, returning for some offensive punch is Joaquin Nieto (2016) who was second in receiving at 297-yards. On the defensive side of things, some talent returns in total tackles leaders Brandon Perez (2018) and Ricardo Silva (2017) who both had 56-tackles on the season. Outside of these names we will have to be a wait and see on who the Coyotes will be in 2016. Take into account that the Coyotes will play in a top district with the likes of Artesia, Goddard and an improving Lovington.
No. 28 Capital Jaguars
Head Coach: Bill Moon
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: "Sleeps, creeps and leaps" - Todd Berry. 2, 5 and now 7 wins for the Capital Jaguars in the three short years since they named Bill Moon the head coach. We seen the revolving door and plenty of excuses that followed with why you couldn't be successful at Capital. Well, a 7-win season and playoff birth with a close 27-26 loss to a 5A power in Goddard in the first round has the growing excitement around that Jaguar football team. Turning to the 2016 football team they take a hit with the loss to their quarterback but bring an electrifying running back who recently attended Boise St. football camp in Junior Vargas (2017). Vargas ran for 1,215 yards with 16 touchdowns. Another name to keep a close eye on is Mark Segura who was dominate with 85-tackles on defense, caught for 260 yards and was seen throwing the football. The Jaguars a favorite to win the district 2-5A title welcome in Albuquerque Academy to the district along with battling regular district members Del Norte, Espanola Valley and Los Alamos.
No. 29 Farmington Scorpions
Head Coach: Jeff Dalton
2015 Record: 8-4
2016 Early Outlook: The Scorpions have raised the standard of expectations over the last 5-years. Last season they were again one of the top teams in the classification going 8-4 and reaching the Final Four. For many programs in New Mexico we have an idea for the level of consistency. Well, the Scorpions could very well be a team we become familiar with playing late into the post season. 2017 Quarterback Kody Becenti returns after a stellar junior season throwing for 3,227-yards and 30 touchdowns. Becenti also ran for 250-yards ranking third behind the two leading rushers in Donovan Gonzalez (2017) and Alex Fowler (2018). Fowler had 908-yards with 13-touchdowns and will be a name to reckon with for the next two years. The issue for the offense might be the receiving core because we know Becenti loves to throw the ball but the top three receivers are gone to graduation. The Scorpions are the heavy favorites to win district 1-5A this season.
No. 30 Moriarty Pintos
Head Coach: Joseph Anaya
2015 Record: 9-3
2016 Early Outlook: The Pintos no longer have a low ceiling after reaching the 5A State semi-finals in 2015 after running to a 9-3 season. The Pintos also surprised the classification with a district championship. Identity has its importance in high school football and much like its county counterpart, two-time 3A state champion Estancia High School the Pintos are a team that gives plenty of touches to go around for the running backs. The leading rusher from 2015 is gone but the void will be a smooth handoff to Elijah Tapia (2017) who had 83-carries for 720-yards and 6-touchdowns. Also, look for Dylan Tapia (2018) to line up under center but expect more runs than passes. The defense does graduate a handful of talent but return total tackle leaders in Santiago Mora (2017), 136 tackles and Matt Smith (2018), 105 tackles. More good news on the Pintos is that they drop down to 4A football, a year after posting one of their best post season runs. The district will be a challenge with the likes of Portales, Ruidoso, Hope Christian and New Mexico Military Institute.
No. 31 Hatch Valley Bears
Head Coach: Jack Cisco
2015 Record: 13-0
2016 Early Outlook: A quick recap has the Hatch Valley Bears winning the 2015 4A State Championship with a 17-7 victory over the Robertson Cardinals. The Bears moved their schedule with dominance ending with a perfect 13-0 record. Fast forward to 2016 and let's first acknowledge that Hatch Valley must replace several veterans on offense whom happened to be one of the most explosive in 4A football. Returning on offense will be a loaded receiving core led by Cade Hackey a senior ranked 7th for returning players in 4A. Hackey caught for 400-yards on the season. On the other side of the ball the roster also depleted with the loss to graduation losing five of the top seven total tackle leaders. Ryan Montez, DT, returns for his senior season having 47-tackles on the season to help guide the Bears. Quick look to the schedule on the Bears, despite realignment, have the same opponents with Cobre, Hot Springs, Silver and Socorro. Cobre provided a challenge during the district play and return a wealthy roster to be the contender for the Bears.
Hatch Returns Defensive Back/Receiver Cade Hackey who was All-State in 2015
No. 32 Estancia Bears
Head Coach: Stewart Burnett
2015 Record: 13-0
2016 Early Outlook: A powerful thing to have is an identity. The team, players and community is on the same page. This will foreshadow on how you plan to earn yards and points. This will identify show how you intend to lean on strengths. Well, the Estancia Bears had plenty of strengths as a ground and pound in 2015 completely dominating the competition. During the state tournament run the won games 54-0 (2nd Round vs Texico), 61-14 (Semi-Final vs Lordsburg) and 50-14 (State Championship vs Eunice). Some bad news is the graduation of a 2,000 yard running back in Adam Lujan who was unstoppable. However, the big hit will be on defense with the loss of Caleb Ortiz (63 total tackles) and Anthony Gaztambide (57 tackles) along with the top eight of the top ten defenders on the Bears gone to graduation. Now the good news is they still return a running back who ran for 1,323 yards in Ezekiel Tapia (2017) along with Moises Anaya who ran for 965-yards as a sophomore.
Last year Estancia the Bears rolled to a 13-0 season
No. 33 West Mesa Mustangs
Head Coach: Ron McMath
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Mustangs got the wheels moving late into the 2015 season finishing 3-1 to end the season. They will look to use that momentum this season with a handful of talent returning to the roster. On the offensive end of the ball the Mustangs graduate its starting quarterback Marcos Gonzales from 2015, but return running back Dario Cotto (2017) who provides them with the power they need in the backfield. Last year Cotto ran for 606-yards. Also watch for Gabe Trujillo to run the football, in 2016 Trujillo ran for 360-yards and 4 touchdowns (369-yards as a special teams threat). Senior Domonic Fischer (#49 NMPreps.com Top 60 2017 Returning in 6A) returns as the leading receiver last season with 291-yards in 9-games. Fischer could be the best prospect on the list for the offensive end and will look to have a season that places him among the best in Albuquerque On the defensive end of the ball the Mustangs return its highest ranked prospect in #38 (NMPreps.com Top 60 2017 Returning in 6A) in Jacob Garduno a 6-foot-0 Linebacker who is looking to place himself among the top LB's this season.
Dominic Fischer returns for his senior season and is likely to take over at quarterback for the Mustangs
No. 34 Robertson Cardinals
Head Coach: Leroy Gonzalez
2015 Record: 10-3
2016 Early Outlook: The Robertson Cardinals return fresh off an appearance in the 2015 State Championship game and are regarded as one of the top teams in 2016. Many of the offensive weapons return including RB Joseph Griego a a 5-foot-8, 150 lbs senior who rushed for a team high 1,063-yards and 12-touchdowns. Griego is ranked #6 on the NMPreps.com Top Returning Prospects from 4A - 2017 classification. Also, making the 1-2 punch for the Cardinals is the #1 returning junior in 4A football in Arjay Ortiz who threw for 985-yards along with rushing for 540-yards. Ortiz totaled for 21 touchdowns on the season. An early look at the 2016 schedule is a newly aligned district with a future match-up, likely with district title implications is the #35 St. Michael's Horsemen.
Last year as a sophomore Quarterback Arjay Ortiz accounted for 21 total touchdowns for the Cardinals
No. 35 St. Michael’s Horsemen
Head Coach: Joey Fernandez
2015 Record: 6-6
2016 Early Outlook: The St. Michael’s Horsemen went 6-6 last season during the 2015 season before losing to Portales 41-7 in the quarterfinals of the state playoffs. The Horsemen don’t graduate too many marquee players, but the big off season discussion rotated around the fact that Junior Standout Chross Jaramillo would transfer to Capital. That is a big loss, no other way to put it. The Horsemen do however return some very good talent with Curtis Rogers returning as a multi position player, Linebacker Joey Fernandez returns for his junior year along with junior to be Jake Tetrault at defensive end, and All-State Linebacker/Fullback Xavier Vigil who might be the best overall player in Class 4A returns for his senior year. The Horsemen’s new district includes Bernalillo, Pojoaque, Robertson, Santa Fe Indian, Taos, and West Las Vegas, good competition and with the talent they have returning you have to like their chances going into 2016.
Xavier Vigil is one of the top players in Class 4A
No. 36 Del Norte Knights
Head Coach: Bruce Binkley
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Del Norte Knights won just 4 games during the 2015 season, which was one less they won in 2014 when they reached the 5A playoffs for the first time in years. Del Norte was without Running Back/Fullback/Linebacker Avery See most of the year who suffered an injury early in the season. See is one of the top class of 2017 prospects checking in at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds and can run the ball like a semi truck. The Knights also return guys like Brenden Call, Jaren Schneider, and Class of 2017 linemen Mccormick Harry who is 6-foot-6, 252 pounds. Del Norte should be improved this season as long as See can stay healthy, their new district includes: Academy, Capital, Espanola, and Los Alamos, remember they beat Los Alamos last year in the final game of the season by a score of 42-0.
6-foot-1, 235 pound Avery See picks up big yards last year against Los Alamos.
No. 37 Silver Colts
Head Coach: Raul Diaz
2015 Record: 4-7
2016 Early Outlook: The Silver Colts went 4-7 last year and lost 21-0 to the St. Michael’s Horsemen during the first round of the Class 4A Playoffs. Butch Branson who has been the head coach at Silver for the last three seasons took a leave of absence dealing with health issues and at the end of the season Raul Daiz was formally named the new Head Coach. Hard to know where the Colts will fall in the Class 4A rankings losing guys like Jeremiah Burke and Chad Fowler to graduation, Keep an eye on guys like Quarterback Joe Hansen, Defensive End Cruz Tafoya, Peter Alard also a key defensive linemen and while they'll be young, their freshmen class went 8-1, so expect to see a few talented sophomores starting and to keep Silver among the top 10 in Class 4A. Not expecting a state title run, but not expecting these guys to miss the playoffs either.
Silver went 4-7 during the 2015 season
No. 38 Lordsburg Mavericks
Head Coach: Louie Baisa
2015 Record: 9-4
2016 Early Outlook: The Mavericks went 9-4 during the 2015 season under Head Coach Louie Baisa reaching the 3A Semifinals. Good season, but a 61-14 loss to Estancia in the semifinals has to leave a bad taste in their mouths heading into 2016 and with Lordsburg moving from 3A to 2A, hard not to think of these guys as the favorite going in. The Mavericks return so much talent including Quarterback Johnny Plowman who threw for 1,709-yards, rushed for 845-yards, and scored a total of 29 touchdowns as a junior. They also return Raymond Saucedo who ran for 728-yards and Jacon Esquivel who caught for 482-yards and rushed for another 364-yards. The Mavericks have enough talent they would of been a favorite this coming year to contend for the 3A title, now their district includes: Hagman and Jal.
Three year starter at Quarterback Johnny Plowman scored 29 touchdowns as a junior
No. 39 Aztec Tigers
Head Coach: Matt Steinfeldt
2015 Record: 4-7
2016 Early Outlook: The Aztec Tigers went 4-7 under Head Coach Matt Steinfeldt during the 2015 season losing to the Roswell Coyotes 52-14 in the first round of the 5A playoffs. Returning for the 2016 season is Quarterback Cody Smith at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds. As a sophomore last year Smith threw for 2,841-yards and 25 touchdowns. The Tigers graduate 5 of their top receivers, look for Justin Black at receiver at 5-foot-11, 175 pounds to step up. At linebacker Brady Moffett a 6-foot-1, 225 pound Class of 2017 prospect recorded 122 tackles last year also watch for Jaxon Hathcock at 6-foot-0, 195 pounds. Up front Offensive linemen Tyler Roberson at 6-foot-2, 255 pounds is noted as a top returner.
Aztec Quarterback Cody Smith threw for more than 2,800-yards as a sophomore in 2015
No. 40 Valencia Jaguars
Head Coach: Collin Justiss
2015 record: 2-8
2016 Early Outlook: During his first year as Head Coach at Valencia, Collin Justiss and the Jaguars won just 2 games in 2015 beating West Mesa and Santa Teresa. It was Justiss’ first time not leading a team to the state championship game in three years. Most knew Valencia would be a young team and an upswing in wins is likely in 2016. A good junior class returns powered by Zach Lowe and Gabe Kline, along with a handful of sophomores who played last season.
Star Power: Zach Lowe, 5-foot-11, 160, Quarterback, Linebacker, Athlete, Ran for 658-yards and 61 tackles.
Keep An Eye On: Gabe Kline, 5-foot-11, 175, Running Back, Linebacker, 49 tackles, Garrett Thompson, 6-foot-3, 290, Defensive Linemen, Abdullah Qassem, 5-foot-10, 270, Offensive Linemen, Jorge Lopez, 5-foot-9, 155, Running Back
Valencia's Zach Lowe returns an interception for a touchdown against West Mesa
No. 41 Española Valley Sundevils
Head Coach: TBA - Miguel Medina Resigned In April of 2016
2015 Record: 9-2
2016 Early Outlook: Following a 9-2 season, their best season in school history it’s hard to see the Sundevils rival their past season success because of the spring departure of Head Coach Miguel Medina. Medina who’s coached at Espanola Valley since 2012 resigned as Head Coach following the resignation of Espanola Valley Superintendent Bobbie Guttierez back in early April. The Sundevils won the 2015 District Football Championship and landed a No. 5 seed in the playoffs only to lose to Farmington by a score of 48-20 in the first round. The Sundevils do graduate Marcos Flores one of the best athletes in Northern New Mexico and also graduate 17 seniors, likely one of their biggest senior classes in the last 15-20-years.
Star Power: Tommy Trujillo, 5-foot-8, 160 pounds, Running Back, Ran for over 600-yards and scored 10 touchdowns as a junior.
Keep An Eye On: Carlos Gonzales, 5-foot-8, 180 pound linebacker, Antonio Curtis, 6-foot-3, 160 pound defensive linemen, Leo Pacheco, 6-foot-3, 270 pound Offensive Linemen
No. 42 Portales Rams
Head Coach: Jaime Ramirez
2015 Record: 11-1
2016 Early Outlook: The Portales Rams won 11 games in a row last season before losing to Robertson 26-14 in the 4A semifinals. A very impressive run by Portales no doubt in a season which they outscored opponents 470-101. They graduate Bronte Staugaard who ran for 1,901-yards and scored 24 touchdowns, but they return good talent on both sides of the football which should keep them very competitive.
Star Power: Junior Ramirez, Quarterback, 5-foot-8, 155 pounds, Class of 2017, Threw for 1,185-yards and 16 touchdowns, also ran for 994-yards and 16 touchdowns;
Keep An Eye On: Darion Ontiveros, 5-foot-10, 145, Athlete, Class of 2017, Caught for 446-yards and 7 touchdowns, 47 tackles, 4 interceptions; Jeremy Karngbaye, 6-foot-4, 210 pounds, Defensive End, Class of 2017, 51 tackles 7.5 sacks
No. 43 Miyamura Patriots
2015 Record: 3-7
Head Coach: WH Shark
2016 Early Outlook: The Patriots went 3-7 during the 2015 season losing their last 6 games of the season, their last game of the season Aztec posted 70 points on the defense. Top 50 team really? Good question as just back in 2014 they won a school best 10 games. The biggest blow will be losing three year starting running back AJ Starkovich who ran for 1,200-yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior in 2015. Matt Chavez returns at quarterback, he threw for 600-yards last year as a sophomore, he also ran for 400-yards, somewhat of a dual threat guy. Giovanni Chidoa returns at receiver and they return Kyle Keeler at back who had 94 tackles as a junior along with Jose Sanchez who had 10.5 sacks.
Star Power: Matt Chavez, Class of 2018, Quarterback, 5-foot-8, 170. Threw for 600-yards and rushed for 400-yards as a sophomore.
Keep An Eye On: Giovanni Chioda, Class of 2018, Receiver/Defensive Back, 5-foot-9, 155 pounds, Caught for 200-yards and had 2 interceptions on defense; Kyle Keeler, Class of 2017, Linebacker, 5-foot-11, 230 pounds, 94 tackles as a junior; Jose Sanchez, Class of 2017, 5-foot-11, 185 pounds, 10.5 sacks, Austin Woods, Class of 2017, Linebacker, 5-foot-9, 175 pounds, 6.0 sacks
No. 44 Bloomfield Bobcats
2015 Record: 9-2
Head Coach: Bob Allcorn
2016 Early Outlook: Entering his third year as Head Coach at Bloomfield, Bob Allcorn has a record of 18-4. For the second year in a row the Bobcats went 9-2 on the season beating Taos in the opening round, then losing to Robertson 49-6 in the Quarterfinals. The Bobcats have proven to be a bit more balanced on offense compared to when Allcorn was coach at Moriarty and the Bobcats will return a three year starter in Brenden Charley who threw for close to 1,200-yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior in 2015. The Bobcats graduate all three of their leading rushers as well as their two top receivers. They have one or two big bodies returning, but didn’t seem to have much last year up front. The Bobcats will jump to 5A this coming year and be along side Four Corner District Teams such as Aztec, Farmington, Gallup, Kirkland, and Miyamura. If they can muster more than 6 wins, it will be just as impressive as when they won 9 in Class 4A.
Star Power: Brenden Charley, Quarterback, 6-foot-3, 175 pounds, Class of 2017, Threw for 1,100-yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior.
Keep An Eye On: D. O’Neil, Running Back, Class of 2018, Ran for 234-yards and 2 touchdowns; Adriano Stevenson, Receiver, Class of 2017, Caught for 214-yards and 3 touchdowns; Angelo Atencio, Linebacker, record 80 tackles as just a freshmen,
No. 45 Ruidoso Warriors
2015 Record: 5-7
Head Coach: Kief Johnson
2016 Early Outlook: Two seasons ago the Warriors were your Class 4A State Champs, last season they were two games under .500 still reaching the playoffs beating Hot Springs in the opening round, then losing to Cobre in the Quarterfinals 35-7. This coming year should be fruitful for the Warriors with a good Class of 2017 returning. They return their Starting Quarterback Kyler Woodul, Starting Running Back Cisco Mayville, Leading receiver, and leading tackler Felix Martinez.
Star Power: Cisco Mayville, Running Back, Class of 2017, Ran for 1,317-yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior during the 2015 season. Quarterback Kyler Woodul threw for 1,916-yards and 9 touchdowns.
Keep An Eye On: Isaiah Otero, Receiver, Class of 2018, Caught for 749-yards and 5 touchdowns as a sophomore. Felix Martinez, Class of 2017, Linebacker/Defensive Linemen recorded 96 total tackles.
No. 46 Lovington Wildcats
2015 Record: 1-9
Head Coach: Anthony Gonzales *1st Year
2016 Early outlook: Since the Wildcat’s move up to Class 5A the Wildcats are a combined 6-14, but what is even more concerning to Wildcat fans is the fact that they have have not reached the playoffs since the 2012 season. After the 2015 season longtime Lovington Head Football Coach Jamie Quinones was let go and in his place is Anthony Gonzales who was the former Defensive Coordinator at Dunbar High School in Texas. The good news is that Lovington will start from scratch and returns plenty of new names into the 2016 season.
Star Power: Brook Quinones, Sr., QB, 6-foot-1, 150 showed signs of being a strong quarterback during the late season as a junior.
Keep An Eye On: Kenny Oliver, JR., WR, 6-foot-3, 195; Isaiah Hinson, Jr., RB, 6-foot-0, 188; Preston White, 6-foot-5, 234 DE
2016 Schedule
8/26 @ Denver City, TX
9/2 Portales
9/9 Ruidoso
9/9 Hobbs
9/16 Hobbs
9/24 @ St. Pius X
9/30 Capital
10/7 @ Santa Teresa
10/21 @ Goddard
10/28 Roswell
11/4 Artesia
No. 47 Eunice Cardinals
Head Coach: Ken Stevens
2015 Record: 8-4
2016 Early Outlook: Under first year Head Coach Ken Stevens the Eunice Cardinals won an impressive 8 games and won two playoff games beating Capitan and then upset Calyton in the quarterfinals 26-22. Losing Blane Ferbrache who ran for 1,200-yards and Aaron Madrid who hit 1,000-yards will be tough losses to replace, but we saw quite a few underclassmen start to rise up as the season progressed. Freshmen Evan Mccalip caught two touchdown passes last year, Sophomore Kadin Hughes had 38 tackles, and Twin Brothers Kari and Tari York should be a very good tandem during their junior year.
Star Power: Kari York and Tari York, each of the York brothers recorded over 30 tackles during their senior season and should be impact players two-ways in 2016. Tari York is 5-foot-8, 150 pounds, Kari is 5-foot-8, 145 pounds.
Keep An Eye On: Evan McCalip, 6-foot-3, 160, WR/LB, Johan Juarez, ATH, 6-foot-1, 188 Pounds, Jacob Mendoza, DL, 6-1, 225 pounds, Travis Hacker, DL, 6-4, 245 pounds
No. 48 Texico Wolverines
Head Coach: Ryan Autrey
2015 Record: 4-8
2016 Early Outlook: Last year the Wolverines completed the season with a record of 4-8 despite having wins over Santa Rosa, Clayton, and Tucumcari in the first round of the playoffs. An ugly 54-0 loss to Estancia in the quarterfinals ended their season, the good news is they graduate just 5 seniors from the Class of 2016. They have plenty of playmakers returning into the season. Hard to imagine these guys having another sub. 500 year.
Star Power: Mason Golden, 6-foot-0, 220 pound Running Back. Golden has been one of the top small school running backs and linebackers for the last two seasons. Very strong, hard nose runner, who is likely a next level guy.
Keep An Eye On: Lance Myers, QB, 5-11, 170, Trent Autrey, 5-foot-9, 145, ATH, Brayden Herrington, DL, 6-foot-0, 225, Devin Rose, DL, 6-foot-0, 220, Videal Torres, 6-foot-1, 220
No. 49. Escalante Lobos
Head Coach: Dusty Giles
2015 Record: 11-1 *Class 2A State Champs
2016 Early Outlook: Escalante Lobo Head Football Coach Dusty Giles has the Lobos straight rolling. Since the 2014 season the Lobos are a remarkable 23-1 over the two seasons and have won three state championships since the 2012 season. Last season the Lobos topped Ft. Sumner 28-20 in the finals and were led by Senior Standout Dominic Montano who accumulated over 2,800-yards and 53 touchdowns on the season. Who will step up and take over Montano’s spot? Waylon Hinds and Diego Aguilar each rushed for over 400-yards last season. In total Escalante will return a total of 30 varsity lettermen and graduate 14 seniors.
Star Power: Diego Aguilar is a 5-foot-6, 150 pound Class of 2017 prospect who rushed for over 400-yards last season.
Keep An Eye On: Waylon Hinds, 5-foot-5, 130 pounds; Tristan Martinez, 5-foot-9, 145 pounds, Joseph Martinez, 5-foot-9, 160 pounds
No. 50 Melrose Buffaloes
Head Coach: Dickie Roybal
2015 Record: 13-0 *8Man State Champs
2016 Early Outlook: The Melrose Buffs are 24-1 over the last two seasons under Head Coach Dickie Roybal. Last season the Buffs defeated the Gateway Christian Warriors 30-28 in the 8Man Finals and though they lose quite a bit of talent to graduation, we expect Melrose to be the clear favorite in 8Man once again.
Star Power: Cade Barnard, QB, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds. Will only be a junior during the 2016 season and is one 8Man prospect that could be a D1 type prospect. Comes from a strong bloodline of big time athletes.
Keep An Eye On: Blake Devaney, DL, 5-11, 225
Grine of NMPreps.com
No. 1 Rio Rancho Rams
Head Coach: David Howes
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: The Rio Rancho Rams reached the quarterfinals of the 2015 New Mexico state tournament falling to Las Cruces, 55-14. Despite the loss the Rams have their eyes looking forward to the 2016 state championship as one of the deepest teams in New Mexico. Departing is QB Steven Bailey who threw for 2,137-yards along with 17 touchdowns for the Rams last season along with Wide Receiver Brian Drake who caught for 657-yards last season. Returning is Nic Little at QB, a 6-3 player with the size and arm strength to get the Rams to state championship level. The prospect to keep an eye on is Little but the star is Josh Foley the sure thing D-1 prospect that ran for 1,081-yards and 15 touchdowns last season along with 437 receiving yards with 4 touchdowns (19 total TDs). Dakota Carrasco returns for his senior season after passing for 145-yards, running for 159-yards for a total of 3 touchdowns as a junior. Vinny Palmeri returns for his senior campaign on a talented defensive after leading the team in total tackles at 92. Trey Parnell, 83 tackles return on defense to provide a championship level worthy of the number one team in New Mexico. Another prospect that tops the list is D-1 bound OL Logan Hertz, who ranks as one of the best at his position to start the season. District 1-6A has No. 2 Cleveland, No 12 Volcano, No. 17 Cibola and No. 18 Piedra Vista o the Top-25.
No. 2 Cleveland Storm
Head Coach: Heath Ridenour
2015 Record: 13-0
2016 Early Outlook: The custom for most predictions have grown accustomed to listing Cleveland High School as one of the top teams in New Mexico football no matter what players depart. The Storm for the second time in the young history of the school had an undefeated season (13-0) to go along with their second New Mexico State Championship in 2015. Departures on both sides of the ball but those vacancies seem to have been filled for the most part. Departing is two University of New Mexico commits in QB Gabe Ortega, 2,486 yards and 25 touchdowns and Marcus Williams who had 872 receiving yards with 13 touchdowns. Jordan Garcia also leaves the defensive with 73 total tackles last season along with Henry Hattis, the Stanford commit. On to 2016, Angelo Trujillo, 2018, only has 3-attempts under his varsity belt but already being considered one of the top quarterbacks in the state he'll replace Ortega. Leading rushing Shawn Nieto, 2017, returns as the leading rusher who had 931-yards and 18 touchdowns. Likely, the next D-1 ready player is Adam Cook a TE who had 452-yards and 3 touchdowns last season. Sean Davis (2017) and Brendon Armstead (2017) return on the defensive side of the ball, Davis led the team with 75-total tackles. The schedule does provide is share of challenges this season and open the season taking on No. 9 Onate in Las Cruces.
No. 3 Eldorado Eagles
Head Coach: Charlie Dotson
2015 Record: 10-3
2016 Early Outlook: Surprised? You shouldn't be. There's no reason to think the Eldorado Eagles won't be capable of making a top-3 finish in the follow-up to a State Runner Up season. The 2015 season had the Eagles win 10-games with some impressive scoring outcomes, a pair of 70-point games (one came in the state tournament). Charlie Dotson continues to prove that his system will be right there with those teams that might boast talented players. However, this Eagles team won't be shy of talent either as they could be deeper, tougher and be a more well rounded team in 2016. One player that you need to know is 5'10, 250lbs running back Elias Baker who will, has, run over defenders. Taking the reigns at QB is a confident senior in Matt Denis, who could be one of the better newcomer QB's with experience. Add in Bryce Wade, a 6-foot-7, 230 pound prospect along with 6-foot-3 255 pound tackle in Adam Clark creating this deep (somehow underrated) team that will prove their worth this season. The Eagles play in District 2-6A and open their season on August 2 at Community season against Las Cruces High School.
No. 4 Mayfield Trojans
Head Coach: Michael Bradley
2015 Record: 9-4
2016 Early Outlook: Another football season, another push for the state championship. The Trojans finished 2015 with a 9-4 record and playing in the state semi-finals falling to eventual state champion Cleveland High School. Mayfield will reload across the board, with only minimal concerns around their offensive line. The Trojans will also replace quarterback Joeray Valencia who passed for over 2,000-yards last season. His replacement has plenty of excitement surrounding his impending start as Torry Locklin (2018) looks to be the reload at quaterback for the Trojans. The two names to know this season and likely have seen the headlines as Isaac Vance returns at running back after rushing for over 2,200-yards and scoring around 30 touchdowns during his junior campaign. The other name that is hot is Gavin Swinson the stud receiver who caught for 1,200-yards in his junior season. The Trojans a contender this season will play in a difficult realigned district 3-6A this season with 4 of the 6 teams ranked in the Top-10 this preseason. The Trojans open the season on August 26th at home against the Rio Rancho Rams.
No. 5 Las Cruces Bulldawgs
Head Coach: Mark Lopez
2015 Record: 9-4
2016 Early Outlook: Another of New Mexico's top program will have a new head coach as Jim Miller who led the Bulldawgs for 18 years and 6 state championship. Like Artesia Bulldogs, these Dawgs handed the duties of head coach to a longtime assistant. Mark Lopez an assistant for 18 years with Miller will take over and take the Bulldawgs on it's next step. The Bulldawgs not only lose Miller the head coach but Miller the quarterback who signed with the University of New Mexico. Kameron Miller passed for 2,199-yards, 17 touchdowns along with rushing for 1,5442-yards and 26 touchdowns. Now to that next step, they have a junior stud ready to breakout in the backfield in Payton Ball who had 656 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns last season as a sophomore. Also, from the 2018 class will be Brandon Baeza a WR who caught for 1,265-yards and 10 touchdowns. The shoes are big to fill at QB and HC but Lopez has two great pieces as both Ball (No. 3 NMPreps Top 40 Prospects from 2018) and Baeza (No. 1 NMPreps Top 40 Prospects from 2018) are ranked as top prospects from the 2018 class. The Bulldawgs now play in a tough District 3-6A with the likes of Carlsbad, Centennial and Gadsden along with Hobbs, Mayfield and Onate.
No. 6 Artesia Bulldogs
Head Coach: Rex Henderson
2015 Record: 12-1
2016 Early Outlook: New head coach Rex Henderson has some big shoes to fill in replacing Cooper Henderson on the Artesia sideline. The good news for the Bulldogs? Henderson, is a Henderson, and is part of the Bulldog family being an assistant for the last 15-years, more importantly the receivers coach and the Bulldogs return some talent at that position. The 2015 football season brought another state championship to Artesia after a 12-1 season. Gone is another great Artesia quarterback in Justin Houghtaling who passed for 3,375-yards, rushed for 354 and totaled 36-touchdowns. Those shoes will be filled by a rising prospect in Taylor Null, a 2018 prospect, who had experience last season totaling for 958-yards and 7 touchdowns. Another athlete returning is Isaiah Weideman who rushed for 396 and had 320 receiving yards. Also, returning is one of the top players in the state in Ethan Duff who had 1,028 receiving yards in 2015. Adding to the talent is Top-3 prospect in 5A in Marcus Bramwell an OL who is raining college interest at 6-foot-4 and 265-pounds. The Bulldogs an early favorite returning to District 4-5A along with the number one contender for 5A title again as they go for the 3-peat.
No. 7 Clovis Wildcats
Head Coach: Eric Roanhaus
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: The expectations in Clovis are high every football season having a legendary head football coach and this season like others has the bar set very high. The Wildcats could have one of the best running back cores in the state as they return two backs that could go for 1,000-yards and they nearly did in 2015. The Wildcats finished the 2015 regular season going 4-0 and reaching the state tournament. The Wildcats suffer a heavy loss in Drew Hatley who signed to play football at the next level after passing for 1,041-yards and 9-touchdowns. The defense returns a wealth of talent as well but graduates some talent as well. Looking at 2016 we have to start with a Top-5 runningback in Micah Gray a 2017 prospect that rushed for 1,100-yards, 13 touchdowns in only 8 of 11 games for the Wildcats. His replacement, a 2018 prospect, Seth Lopez also returns after gaining 795-yards on 9-touchdowns. Another stud returning is DE Fernando Acosta (Sr) who had 89-tackles and 9-sacks is one of the 2017 prospects to keep a close eye on. The Wildcats open the season on August 30th, against rival Hobbs High School before a tough schedule with the likes of Rio Rancho and newly district rival Eldorado, two teams that are favorites to win it all.
No. 8 Centennial Hawks
Head Coach: Aaron Ocampo
2015 Record: 12-1
2016 Early Outlook: Aaron Ocampo has quickly built a football program at New Mexico's newest high school. Only opening their doors in 2012 the Centennial Hawks achieved an outstanding season in 2015 going 10-0 during the regular season with wins over Las Cruces, Los Lunas and Onate eventually playing for their first state championship. The Centennial Hawks lose wide receiver Bryce Rewalt who had 12-touchdowns on 670-yards on the offense along with Jake Boykin on the defensive who had 81-tackles. Minus those two players the Centennial Hawks return a wealth of talent, becoming a threat in their first season in 6A football moving up from 5A. First we start with one of the top returning QB's in football this season in Dante Lopez who threw for 1,525-yards and 28-touchdowns in 2015. Add in Junior Pena at the wide receiver to create a dominate duo for next season after catching for 662-yards and 12 touchdowns last season. The Hawks will move into District 3-6A with Carlsbad, Gadsden, Hobbs, Las Cruces along with Mayfield and Onate in 2016.
No. 9 Onate Knights
Head Coach: Brent Jaquess
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Knights move into the 2016 with some momentum on their side, finishing the 2015 season 4-2 after an 0-4 start. The Knights return a handful of top skill positioned players minus graduating Jovan Guardian a wide receiver who caught for 550-yards and 5-touchdowns in only 8-games for the Knights. Last season was the first year under head coach Brent Jaquess and one of the teams with the younger starting line-ups with a handful of 2017 team members. One of the top players returning is linebacker Forest McKee who has a several options at the next level with more to come. McKee, had 122-total tackles on the season. The Knights also return their top four total tackle leaders in Jaime Villela (Sr), Mathew Young (Sr) and James Martin (Sr) creating one of the top returning defending teams. Young like McKee is a division-1 player as a New Mexico State commit. Little mentioned but the Knights return quarterback Tony Herrera who had 1,100 passing yards and 12 touchdowns. Also, on offensive, maybe forgotten because of his defense but Forest McKee who rushed for 717-yards and 7-touchdowns. The Knights schedule only gets tougher in 2016 with a district flooded with top 6A teams with the addition of Hobbs, Carlsbad and Centennial to original members Las Cruces and Mayfield.
No. 10 Hobbs Eagles
Head Coach: Charles Gleghorn
2015 Record: 7-5
2016 Early Outlook: After a 0-2 last season the Eagles went on to win the next 4 of 5 games on their way to a 7-5 season that resulted in a playoff birth and round one win. That team also had one of the top quarterbacks in the state in Isaac Amaya who tossed the ball for 3,641-yards and 39 touchdowns. To make matters worse the Eagles lose Jeremy Padilla who rushed for 1,237-yards and 13 touchdowns along with wide receiver Devin Beard who caught for 1,474-yards and 20 touchdowns. That alone is a lot to replace and the outlook for next season is one with plenty of holes to fill along with entering a new, stronger, district to compete in with the Las Cruces powers. On offense the key name to know is wide receiver Cason Clay (Sr) who had 543-yards and 6 touchdowns last season. The defense is a similar narrative as they have plenty of openings that will eventually be filled with new names. Bright news is the leading defender Caleb Beaird (Sr) returns after posting 120 tackles in 2015.
No. 11 Manzano Monarchs
Head Coach: Chris Adcox
2015 Record: 7-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Monarchs had a season solid season in 2015 with a playoff birth with a win in the opening round. The Monarchs also had an impressive win over Mayfield finishing the season at 7-5. The bad news looking forward to the 2016 season is the loss Orlando Perez who at quarterback passed for 833-yards, 6 touchdowns along with rushing for 972-yards with 11 touchdowns. The defense also loses its top defender in Bryson Watts who had 82-totals tackles (63 solo). Overall, looking forward however the defense might be in the best situation as they had a young defense filled with 2017 class members including Alejandro Vallejos (72 TT) and Cameron Herrera (68 TT). Returning on the offense is Jordan Byrd, who has an offer from the University of New Mexico, the running back rushing for 641-yards with a 9.2 average per carry. His carries and numbers should make a leap this season. The Monarchs stay in District 2-6A in the alignment of districts but will the district to be tougher with Clovis moving in, along with Eldorado and Sandia being top returning teams.
Cameron Herrera - MLB
No. 12 Volcano Vista Hawks
Head Coach: Chris Wallin
2015 Record: 6-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Volcano Vista Hawks went 6-5 last season, making the 2015 State Tournament. The Hawks are an exciting team moving forward but will take a hit losing a quarterback that threw for 2,274-yards and 26-touchdowns in Josh Williams. They also lost some depth in the running back and wide receiver spots and will look to some youth or players going to get experience on the season. Now to the bright side for the Hawks and head coach Chris Wallin, one of the top prospects that will come out of the program is looking to place himself among the best in David Cormier. Cormier, has received offers from New Mexico State and the University of New Mexico lately. Two other players that could be in store for big years as players little mentioned. Dillion Gassoway a senior quarterback has looked confident this summer and will fill in well for departing Williams. Running the ball is Chris Streetz, ranked in the Top-10 RBs returning had 750-yards last season and 7-touchdowns. Playing along side Cormier is 6-foot-4 junior Joren Dickey who creates a killer 1-2 punch. The defense could be taking the biggest hit, graduating plenty but welcome back OLB/DE Isaac Martinez who was second in tackles at 65, 2 sacks and 1 interception. The district is difficult with the likes of Cleveland, Rio Rancho and Cibola to go along with the addition of Piedra Vista. The Hawks open the season on August 27th against Valley High School.
David Cormier (WR)
No. 13 La Cueva Bears
Head Coach: Brandon Beck
2015 Record: 3-7
2016 Early Outlook: La Cueva is a program with plenty of potential heading into the 2016 football season. The Bears program was once known as the best in the Albuquerque area and they look to challenge again this season with a strong roster of players. La Cueva went 3-7 last season without a playoff birth but were within a touchdown, showing a strong defensive presence in a offensive game. Flying under the radar is Chris Campbell a senior quarterback poised for a breakout season and could have his numbers jump with a pass heavy offense. The Bears also return a Top 60 player for 6A football in two-way player Josh Woisin (LB/RB). Another player to keep a close eye on is running back is Thomas Bui (Sr). Derek Loidolt a Linebacker is a junior to watch as he was ranked in the Top 10 returning juniors in 6A football. The Bears will have their hands full with a new, stronger district with the addition of Clovis and teams that are looking to be in the better half with Sandia and Manzano along with the state runner up Eldorado Eagles. La Cueva opens the season on August 24th against the Cibola Cougars.
Quarterback Chris Campbell
No. 14 Alamogordo Tigers
Head Coach: Dale Hooper
2015 Record: 6-4
2016 Early Outlook: The 2015 Tigers sprinted to a 6-0 start last season before dropping the final four contests. The Tigers have have steady improvements under coach Dale Hooper and they have pieces in place to be a state champion contender as they make the transition to 5A, from 6A under the new alignment. The Tigers have lost some pieces in the likes of lead reciever Julian Segura who had 894-yards last season along with Hunter Graham who rushed for 1,155-yards. Replacing those two will bring some difficulty but returning is one of the top quarterbacks in the state in Kyle Hooper who's numbers are among the best with 2,674-passing yards, 398-rushing yards and a total of 29 touchdowns (22-passing touchdowns). Alex Ramirez also returns as one of the top players for the Tigers with headline numbers of 805-yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Ramirez, might see his numbers take a jump with the bigger role. The Tigers now will battle in District 3-5A with the likes of Chaparral, Santa Teresa and Deming who also moves down from 6A. The Tigers will open the season on August 26th with a match up on the road at Valencia High School.
No. 15 Sandia Matadors
Head Coach: Kevin Baker
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: After winning 7-games in somewhat of a transition year, Sandia is poised to make a serious run at the title. Most of the roster returns and that starts with three or four college level players. The Matadors started the season with a loss but was one of the few teams to not lose back-to-back games all season which is the growing pains for a program set to excel in the following season. In fact, they have been building for two years now and it looks to be third years a charm, first you look at the quarterback position. Jacob Archibeque (Sr) passed for 894-yards along with rushing for 67-yards. I'm telling you now he is one of the top quarterbacks by seasons end. Next, is a pick of liter in the backfield led by Estevan Leyba (Jr) who had 246-yards rushing but you should expected more touches. A new name this season and one that won't take long to know is Devin Woosley (Sr/Wr) who has solid hands, athleticism and overall passion. On the defensive end of the ball you have to next level ready players in Jacob Barnhill (Sr/6-foot-3/DE) and Ben Bertram (DE/6-foot-3/Sr) who has offers from Adams State and New Mexico Highlands. Don't sleep on Sandia, this could be the biggest dark horse ranked 15th (for now).
Sandia QB Jacob Archibeque
No. 16 Carlsbad Cavemen
Head Coach: Gary Bradley
2015 Record: 2-9
2016 Early Outlook: Without looking at the entire schedule, the Cavemen ended the season on a high note with a win, going 2-2 in the final four games. The momentum is on the right path for the Cavemen as they enter the second year under state champion head coach Gary Bradley. The Cavemen will have to replace a vital part to their line in Justin Sims who signed with New Mexico Highlands. Last season, the Cavemen lost two-year starter at quarterback to an injury against Artesia but hope he returns healthy for the 2016 season. Jonah Leyva (Sr) looks to return under quarterback but also has junior to be Nate Arrington who could get looks. More great news moving forward for the Cavemen, who like to run as a triple-option team, is they return a stud in Jaykan Willis (RB/Jr.). A two-way player that could be among the best returning players. The entire backfield returns including Colby Watts (Jr) and Carlos Zacarias (Jr). After graduating a lot last summer you have to like many players that will have a year under their belt of the Bradley era.
No. 17 Cibola Cougars
Head Coach: Roderick Williams
2015 Record: 6-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Cougars opened the 2015 season winning five of their six non-district games. The season resulted in a playoff birth and a finish of 6-5. Rod Williams' team should have some momentum moving forward with the return of a 1,321-passing QB, 907-yard rushing RB and a talented 2017 class. The quarterback that returns is Gannon Chavez (Sr) who accounted for 6-touchdowns along with 1,321-yards. Kazyan Martin (Sr) is the highlight player for the Cougars in 2016 and could be an early Mr. Football prospect with 1,013 all purpose yards (907 rushing). The new prospect on the rise will be Joaquin Espitia-Candelaria who could see his numbers rise (168-rushing/148-receiving). Looking at the schedule for 2016 it only gets tougher with dates with Las Cruces, a better Carlsbad team and the addition of Piedra Vista in district replacing Santa Fe.
No. 18 Piedra Visa Panthers
Head Coach: Jared Howell
2015 Record: 9-3
2016 Early Outlook: Piedra Vista will be a wild card team as they move to 6A football from 5A in 2016. The Panthers went 9-3 with a semi-final appearance in last seasons' 5A state tournament. They have some talented prospects returning but will miss a talent in two-way player Scott Ramirez and Shawn Morris. As we move forward we have to mention key prospects in Elijah Gamboa (QB/Sr) who had 1,500all purpose yards along with scoring 18-touchdowns. Throw in ATH Alex Shay who had over 1,000-yards of offense a solid special teams player. The biggest draw to the Panthers is BIG12 Texas Texas University commit Dylan Weaver a 6-foot-7, 280 pound OL. Weaver, is one of two New Mexico prospects signing to a Big 5 school. Not only does the transition to 6A hurt but they enter the toughest district in 6A (or the state - both debatable). District 1-6A features the 2015, 2014 and 2011 State Champs in the Rio Rancho powers. The Panthers will kick off the season with crosstown rival Farmington on August 26th at Farmington.
Dylan Weaver (OL/Sr) a Texas Tech commit.
No. 19 Albuquerque Bulldogs
Head Coach: Curtis Flakes
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: When considering the top coaches in the state you have to take a look at Curtis Flakes who brought life to a Bulldog football program that had no pulse for years. Albuquerque High were 0-30 in the three seasons' prior to the hiring of Flakes, under Flakes they are 8-12 in two years. 2016 could be a bit of a rebuilding mode as they graduate their top two quarterbacks, their rushing game along with a depleted defense. It appears that the first hole on the offense has been filled with ATH Roel Pavia taking snaps at the quarterback position this summer. The player to watch on the offense will bethe main target for Pavia in Santiago Williams a wide receiver who caught for 445-yards with 5-total touchdowns. Kano Nious (DB/Sr) and David Marquez (DE/Sr) will look to be the returning tandem on the defense and bring the most game time experience for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs open the season with Centennial on Aug. 26th (Milne Stadium). District 4-6A, has an open door policy this season as any of the teams with a chance to take the title. The realignment has Rio Grande, Valley, West Mesa along with Highland and Atrisco Heritage.
Roel Pavia (ATH) taking snaps at QB this summer.
No. 20 Atrisco Heritage Academy Jaguars
Head Coach: Patrick Johnson
2015 Record: 5-6
2016 Early Outlook: After a 1-5 start to the 2015 season the Jaguars finished strong at 4-1 with a bid to the state tournament. The Jaguars relied on running back Aaron Bean, who led the team with 1,314-yards and 14-touchdowns. The Jaguars offense will have a huge overhaul with a new QB, RB and WR. The Jaguars look to take a small step back with an inexperienced roster seeing plenty of junior getting the call. Richard Tucker (2018) could get the call at running back playing in 9-games for 136-yards scoring 2-touchdowns last season. Neil Smith (2018) another prospect who had 319 all purpose yards could be another player to keep an eye on for the Jaguars. Turning to the strength for the Jaguars is on the defensive end of the ball as Jose Ramirez (2019) led the team in tackles as freshmen with 78-total tackles (34 solo). A player we seen this summer and like is Valentino Morris (2017) who was second on the team in total tackles (75) and could be one on the rise in player rankings. Morris also led in sacks at 4 for the Jaguars in only 9-games. Looking at 4-6A next season the Jaguars, even with an inexperienced roster, could be one of the favorites but this season it will be dogfight for the playoff bid for a one-bid league.
Morris (DE) is one of the leading prospects for the Jaguars.
No. 21 Deming Wildcats
Head Coach: Fernando Holguin Jr.
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: Unlike its new district foe in the Alamogordo Tigers the Deming Wildcats enter 5A football with some uncertainty. The Wildcats finished the season at 4-6 without a playoff birth and they graduate a star athlete. The expectations will be higher with the drop to 5A even though they had success last season, better than advertised, however the eligibility of Dante Urrea has expired after a 1,261-rushing, 623-passing, 98-receiving and 20-touchdown season. Urrea's number one target from the receiving core Christian Metz (168-yard) returns for his senior season. Also, Mando Perales looks poised to be the running back for the Wildcats after 110-yard season on 24-carries. On the defensive end of the ball it is Urrea again to replace along with a handful of defensive players and could be the biggest question mark this season.
No. 22 Los Lunas Tigers
Head Coach: Terrell Trantham
Record: 6-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Tigers won 6 games in a transition year, now poised to challenge for a state championship. Most of the roster returns intact but the Tigers have to replace their quarterback who passed for 1,076-yards last season. Los Lunas also return as a favorite in their new district after being runner up last season but will have to battle new district foe St. Pius X whom they lost to in the first round of the state tournament. The Tigers also have, likely one of the biggest recruits to walk the halls of Los Lunas High School. O'maury Samuels who early committed to University Michigan a Big Ten school rushed for 1,468-yards and 21-touchdowns. It's uncertain who will be throwing the ball but the Tigers return weapons to throw the ball at including another next level player in Trevor Brohard. Brohard is ranked in the Top-5 returning TE's for the 2016 season and has interest from Western State. Brohard is also the top defender but the Tigers have a sophomore in Michael Montoya who could be a top players in his classification after having 35-tackles as a freshman. The Tigers. Looking forward at the Tigers schedule they will play against 5A playoff teams from a year ago in Aztec, Roswell and Artesia. A date circle will be during week two on September 2nd against Alamogordo.
No. 23 Goddard Rockets
Head Coach: Chris White (1st Year)
2015 Record: 6-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Rockets stayed in-house with the hiring of Chris White as the head coach for the 2016 season. The Rockets are coming off a 6-6 season behind a difficult schedule that featured 6-playoff teams along with winning their opening round game in the State Tournament. The Rockets lose a top defensive player in Ethan Featherstone a linebacker along with taking a hit to their offense was losing running back Lukas Gutierrez who rushed for 1,000-yards. Looking forward to the 2016 season we have to target 2018 Quarterback Cameron Stevenson who accounted for more than 1,000-yards of offense and scored over 15-touchdowns in 2015. Another prospect high on our radar is ATH Devon Quiroz a quality defensive back and top rated kick return man. The district stays the same during the realignment with some football rich programs in defending state champs, Artesia High School along with a dark horse in Roswell. Lovington, is going through transition but could be trap team this season.
No. 24 Valley Vikings
Head Coach: Judge Chavez
2015 Record: 3-7
2016 Early Outlook: The Valley Vikings enter a new era under veteran head coach Judge Chavez - the former Cibola head coach - looks to inherit an experienced team. The Vikings took a dip last season falling well under .500 at 3-7, missing out on the 2015 State Tournament. The good news for the Vikings moving forward is welcoming back quarterback Isaiah Chavez (2017) who passed for 1,540-yards, 12-touchdowns along with 1-rushing touchdown. In the backfield they do lose leading rusher Michael Barboa, but welcome back two-star athlete Segun Oyeku who ran for 279-yards on 49-carries last season. The hit comes from graduating the top two receivers and will look to junior Xavier Ortiz along with Ezequiel Renter. Also, a new name to watch is Jonathan Sierra who had a quality day this summer during the Metro Passing League. On the defensive end of the ball the leader appears to be in the hands of Keno Garcia a middle linebacker who was third on the team in total tackles. Final word, is the Vikings play in a winnable district but it will be a dogfight with the continuing progress it has shown. Judge Chavez has coached some experienced quarterbacks to the next level during his tenure at Cibola but it will be interesting to see if they let it fly as much as the Vikings have recently let it fly. Schedule is difficult pre-district with Alamogordo and Volcano Vista two top ranked teams.
No. 25 St. Pius X Sartans
Head Coach: San Juan Mendoza
2015 Record: 10-2
2016 Early Outlook: The Sartans are a dangerous team returning in 5A football. Coach San Juan Mendoza's team returns a strong defense and boast a standout quarterback. Last season, the Sartans ran to 10-wins, a playoff with over Los Lunas in the first round before eventually falling in the second round to Artesia 27-21. The Sartans return the number two prospect in the NMPreps.com 5A returning players for the 2017 graduating class and top quarterback in Drew Ortiz. The offense is set up to be one of the more balanced teams with a good receiving core and handful of returning experience. The defense is set up to be dominate this season circled by the classifications top linebacker core in Jared Vigil (2017), Austin Schull (2017/6'1'') and Adrian Leon (2017/6'2''). The district will be tough with another 5A state title contender in Los Lunas along with a Belen team that has the potential to be dominate. We can't forget about the sleeper in Valencia either in this tough district next season.
No. 26 Belen Eagles
Head Coach: Greg Hennington (1st year)
2015 Record: 3-7
2016 Early Outlook: It's a new era for Belen High School, as John Lerma's tenure has come to an end over the summer. The Eagles, though very young, underachieved to a very high standard - that Lerma built. New head coach Greg Hennington inherits a roster of young promising talent that could be one of the best teams in 5A football this season. The Eagles will be a dark horse contender for the District 5-5A title behind several 2018 class members. Thomas Wisneski, a sophomore quarterback last season returns for his junior season. Wisneski, put it on the ground and also through the air with over 400-yards rushing and over 600-yards passing. Henderson, will have a pick of his choice when it comes to the backfield as they return 6/7 from the depth chart, same goes with the WR core as they return the majority of the depth chart. Mateo Romero, brings in some senior leadership as one of junior returning studs as he both ran the ball along with a few catches for over 150-yards. The Eagles clearly have some young talent set up for success the next three years and will battle in a new district with St. Pius X, Grants, along with county mates in Valencia and Los Lunas.
No. 27 Roswell Coyotes
Head Coach: Jeff Lynn
2015 Record: 8-5
2016 Early Outlook: The Coyotes pulled a nice surge in the third season under coach Jeff Lynn running towards 8-wins and a state tournament playoff, winning the opening round game 52-14 over Aztec. Will this over .500 type of season continue into 2016 or will there be a small drop off? The Coyotes lose Dominic Anaya who passed for 1,001-yards, rushed for 677-yards and accumulated 27 touchdowns (16 rushing). That only could result in a tiny step back, losing an athete who impacted what they did. The good news, Luis Mendoza (2016) returns and an athlete in his own rushing for 620-yards and caught for 108-yards. Also, returning for some offensive punch is Joaquin Nieto (2016) who was second in receiving at 297-yards. On the defensive side of things, some talent returns in total tackles leaders Brandon Perez (2018) and Ricardo Silva (2017) who both had 56-tackles on the season. Outside of these names we will have to be a wait and see on who the Coyotes will be in 2016. Take into account that the Coyotes will play in a top district with the likes of Artesia, Goddard and an improving Lovington.
No. 28 Capital Jaguars
Head Coach: Bill Moon
2015 Record: 7-4
2016 Early Outlook: "Sleeps, creeps and leaps" - Todd Berry. 2, 5 and now 7 wins for the Capital Jaguars in the three short years since they named Bill Moon the head coach. We seen the revolving door and plenty of excuses that followed with why you couldn't be successful at Capital. Well, a 7-win season and playoff birth with a close 27-26 loss to a 5A power in Goddard in the first round has the growing excitement around that Jaguar football team. Turning to the 2016 football team they take a hit with the loss to their quarterback but bring an electrifying running back who recently attended Boise St. football camp in Junior Vargas (2017). Vargas ran for 1,215 yards with 16 touchdowns. Another name to keep a close eye on is Mark Segura who was dominate with 85-tackles on defense, caught for 260 yards and was seen throwing the football. The Jaguars a favorite to win the district 2-5A title welcome in Albuquerque Academy to the district along with battling regular district members Del Norte, Espanola Valley and Los Alamos.
No. 29 Farmington Scorpions
Head Coach: Jeff Dalton
2015 Record: 8-4
2016 Early Outlook: The Scorpions have raised the standard of expectations over the last 5-years. Last season they were again one of the top teams in the classification going 8-4 and reaching the Final Four. For many programs in New Mexico we have an idea for the level of consistency. Well, the Scorpions could very well be a team we become familiar with playing late into the post season. 2017 Quarterback Kody Becenti returns after a stellar junior season throwing for 3,227-yards and 30 touchdowns. Becenti also ran for 250-yards ranking third behind the two leading rushers in Donovan Gonzalez (2017) and Alex Fowler (2018). Fowler had 908-yards with 13-touchdowns and will be a name to reckon with for the next two years. The issue for the offense might be the receiving core because we know Becenti loves to throw the ball but the top three receivers are gone to graduation. The Scorpions are the heavy favorites to win district 1-5A this season.
No. 30 Moriarty Pintos
Head Coach: Joseph Anaya
2015 Record: 9-3
2016 Early Outlook: The Pintos no longer have a low ceiling after reaching the 5A State semi-finals in 2015 after running to a 9-3 season. The Pintos also surprised the classification with a district championship. Identity has its importance in high school football and much like its county counterpart, two-time 3A state champion Estancia High School the Pintos are a team that gives plenty of touches to go around for the running backs. The leading rusher from 2015 is gone but the void will be a smooth handoff to Elijah Tapia (2017) who had 83-carries for 720-yards and 6-touchdowns. Also, look for Dylan Tapia (2018) to line up under center but expect more runs than passes. The defense does graduate a handful of talent but return total tackle leaders in Santiago Mora (2017), 136 tackles and Matt Smith (2018), 105 tackles. More good news on the Pintos is that they drop down to 4A football, a year after posting one of their best post season runs. The district will be a challenge with the likes of Portales, Ruidoso, Hope Christian and New Mexico Military Institute.
No. 31 Hatch Valley Bears
Head Coach: Jack Cisco
2015 Record: 13-0
2016 Early Outlook: A quick recap has the Hatch Valley Bears winning the 2015 4A State Championship with a 17-7 victory over the Robertson Cardinals. The Bears moved their schedule with dominance ending with a perfect 13-0 record. Fast forward to 2016 and let's first acknowledge that Hatch Valley must replace several veterans on offense whom happened to be one of the most explosive in 4A football. Returning on offense will be a loaded receiving core led by Cade Hackey a senior ranked 7th for returning players in 4A. Hackey caught for 400-yards on the season. On the other side of the ball the roster also depleted with the loss to graduation losing five of the top seven total tackle leaders. Ryan Montez, DT, returns for his senior season having 47-tackles on the season to help guide the Bears. Quick look to the schedule on the Bears, despite realignment, have the same opponents with Cobre, Hot Springs, Silver and Socorro. Cobre provided a challenge during the district play and return a wealthy roster to be the contender for the Bears.
Hatch Returns Defensive Back/Receiver Cade Hackey who was All-State in 2015
No. 32 Estancia Bears
Head Coach: Stewart Burnett
2015 Record: 13-0
2016 Early Outlook: A powerful thing to have is an identity. The team, players and community is on the same page. This will foreshadow on how you plan to earn yards and points. This will identify show how you intend to lean on strengths. Well, the Estancia Bears had plenty of strengths as a ground and pound in 2015 completely dominating the competition. During the state tournament run the won games 54-0 (2nd Round vs Texico), 61-14 (Semi-Final vs Lordsburg) and 50-14 (State Championship vs Eunice). Some bad news is the graduation of a 2,000 yard running back in Adam Lujan who was unstoppable. However, the big hit will be on defense with the loss of Caleb Ortiz (63 total tackles) and Anthony Gaztambide (57 tackles) along with the top eight of the top ten defenders on the Bears gone to graduation. Now the good news is they still return a running back who ran for 1,323 yards in Ezekiel Tapia (2017) along with Moises Anaya who ran for 965-yards as a sophomore.
Last year Estancia the Bears rolled to a 13-0 season
No. 33 West Mesa Mustangs
Head Coach: Ron McMath
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Mustangs got the wheels moving late into the 2015 season finishing 3-1 to end the season. They will look to use that momentum this season with a handful of talent returning to the roster. On the offensive end of the ball the Mustangs graduate its starting quarterback Marcos Gonzales from 2015, but return running back Dario Cotto (2017) who provides them with the power they need in the backfield. Last year Cotto ran for 606-yards. Also watch for Gabe Trujillo to run the football, in 2016 Trujillo ran for 360-yards and 4 touchdowns (369-yards as a special teams threat). Senior Domonic Fischer (#49 NMPreps.com Top 60 2017 Returning in 6A) returns as the leading receiver last season with 291-yards in 9-games. Fischer could be the best prospect on the list for the offensive end and will look to have a season that places him among the best in Albuquerque On the defensive end of the ball the Mustangs return its highest ranked prospect in #38 (NMPreps.com Top 60 2017 Returning in 6A) in Jacob Garduno a 6-foot-0 Linebacker who is looking to place himself among the top LB's this season.
Dominic Fischer returns for his senior season and is likely to take over at quarterback for the Mustangs
No. 34 Robertson Cardinals
Head Coach: Leroy Gonzalez
2015 Record: 10-3
2016 Early Outlook: The Robertson Cardinals return fresh off an appearance in the 2015 State Championship game and are regarded as one of the top teams in 2016. Many of the offensive weapons return including RB Joseph Griego a a 5-foot-8, 150 lbs senior who rushed for a team high 1,063-yards and 12-touchdowns. Griego is ranked #6 on the NMPreps.com Top Returning Prospects from 4A - 2017 classification. Also, making the 1-2 punch for the Cardinals is the #1 returning junior in 4A football in Arjay Ortiz who threw for 985-yards along with rushing for 540-yards. Ortiz totaled for 21 touchdowns on the season. An early look at the 2016 schedule is a newly aligned district with a future match-up, likely with district title implications is the #35 St. Michael's Horsemen.
Last year as a sophomore Quarterback Arjay Ortiz accounted for 21 total touchdowns for the Cardinals
No. 35 St. Michael’s Horsemen
Head Coach: Joey Fernandez
2015 Record: 6-6
2016 Early Outlook: The St. Michael’s Horsemen went 6-6 last season during the 2015 season before losing to Portales 41-7 in the quarterfinals of the state playoffs. The Horsemen don’t graduate too many marquee players, but the big off season discussion rotated around the fact that Junior Standout Chross Jaramillo would transfer to Capital. That is a big loss, no other way to put it. The Horsemen do however return some very good talent with Curtis Rogers returning as a multi position player, Linebacker Joey Fernandez returns for his junior year along with junior to be Jake Tetrault at defensive end, and All-State Linebacker/Fullback Xavier Vigil who might be the best overall player in Class 4A returns for his senior year. The Horsemen’s new district includes Bernalillo, Pojoaque, Robertson, Santa Fe Indian, Taos, and West Las Vegas, good competition and with the talent they have returning you have to like their chances going into 2016.
Xavier Vigil is one of the top players in Class 4A
No. 36 Del Norte Knights
Head Coach: Bruce Binkley
2015 Record: 4-6
2016 Early Outlook: The Del Norte Knights won just 4 games during the 2015 season, which was one less they won in 2014 when they reached the 5A playoffs for the first time in years. Del Norte was without Running Back/Fullback/Linebacker Avery See most of the year who suffered an injury early in the season. See is one of the top class of 2017 prospects checking in at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds and can run the ball like a semi truck. The Knights also return guys like Brenden Call, Jaren Schneider, and Class of 2017 linemen Mccormick Harry who is 6-foot-6, 252 pounds. Del Norte should be improved this season as long as See can stay healthy, their new district includes: Academy, Capital, Espanola, and Los Alamos, remember they beat Los Alamos last year in the final game of the season by a score of 42-0.
6-foot-1, 235 pound Avery See picks up big yards last year against Los Alamos.
No. 37 Silver Colts
Head Coach: Raul Diaz
2015 Record: 4-7
2016 Early Outlook: The Silver Colts went 4-7 last year and lost 21-0 to the St. Michael’s Horsemen during the first round of the Class 4A Playoffs. Butch Branson who has been the head coach at Silver for the last three seasons took a leave of absence dealing with health issues and at the end of the season Raul Daiz was formally named the new Head Coach. Hard to know where the Colts will fall in the Class 4A rankings losing guys like Jeremiah Burke and Chad Fowler to graduation, Keep an eye on guys like Quarterback Joe Hansen, Defensive End Cruz Tafoya, Peter Alard also a key defensive linemen and while they'll be young, their freshmen class went 8-1, so expect to see a few talented sophomores starting and to keep Silver among the top 10 in Class 4A. Not expecting a state title run, but not expecting these guys to miss the playoffs either.
Silver went 4-7 during the 2015 season
No. 38 Lordsburg Mavericks
Head Coach: Louie Baisa
2015 Record: 9-4
2016 Early Outlook: The Mavericks went 9-4 during the 2015 season under Head Coach Louie Baisa reaching the 3A Semifinals. Good season, but a 61-14 loss to Estancia in the semifinals has to leave a bad taste in their mouths heading into 2016 and with Lordsburg moving from 3A to 2A, hard not to think of these guys as the favorite going in. The Mavericks return so much talent including Quarterback Johnny Plowman who threw for 1,709-yards, rushed for 845-yards, and scored a total of 29 touchdowns as a junior. They also return Raymond Saucedo who ran for 728-yards and Jacon Esquivel who caught for 482-yards and rushed for another 364-yards. The Mavericks have enough talent they would of been a favorite this coming year to contend for the 3A title, now their district includes: Hagman and Jal.
Three year starter at Quarterback Johnny Plowman scored 29 touchdowns as a junior
No. 39 Aztec Tigers
Head Coach: Matt Steinfeldt
2015 Record: 4-7
2016 Early Outlook: The Aztec Tigers went 4-7 under Head Coach Matt Steinfeldt during the 2015 season losing to the Roswell Coyotes 52-14 in the first round of the 5A playoffs. Returning for the 2016 season is Quarterback Cody Smith at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds. As a sophomore last year Smith threw for 2,841-yards and 25 touchdowns. The Tigers graduate 5 of their top receivers, look for Justin Black at receiver at 5-foot-11, 175 pounds to step up. At linebacker Brady Moffett a 6-foot-1, 225 pound Class of 2017 prospect recorded 122 tackles last year also watch for Jaxon Hathcock at 6-foot-0, 195 pounds. Up front Offensive linemen Tyler Roberson at 6-foot-2, 255 pounds is noted as a top returner.
Aztec Quarterback Cody Smith threw for more than 2,800-yards as a sophomore in 2015
No. 40 Valencia Jaguars
Head Coach: Collin Justiss
2015 record: 2-8
2016 Early Outlook: During his first year as Head Coach at Valencia, Collin Justiss and the Jaguars won just 2 games in 2015 beating West Mesa and Santa Teresa. It was Justiss’ first time not leading a team to the state championship game in three years. Most knew Valencia would be a young team and an upswing in wins is likely in 2016. A good junior class returns powered by Zach Lowe and Gabe Kline, along with a handful of sophomores who played last season.
Star Power: Zach Lowe, 5-foot-11, 160, Quarterback, Linebacker, Athlete, Ran for 658-yards and 61 tackles.
Keep An Eye On: Gabe Kline, 5-foot-11, 175, Running Back, Linebacker, 49 tackles, Garrett Thompson, 6-foot-3, 290, Defensive Linemen, Abdullah Qassem, 5-foot-10, 270, Offensive Linemen, Jorge Lopez, 5-foot-9, 155, Running Back
Valencia's Zach Lowe returns an interception for a touchdown against West Mesa
No. 41 Española Valley Sundevils
Head Coach: TBA - Miguel Medina Resigned In April of 2016
2015 Record: 9-2
2016 Early Outlook: Following a 9-2 season, their best season in school history it’s hard to see the Sundevils rival their past season success because of the spring departure of Head Coach Miguel Medina. Medina who’s coached at Espanola Valley since 2012 resigned as Head Coach following the resignation of Espanola Valley Superintendent Bobbie Guttierez back in early April. The Sundevils won the 2015 District Football Championship and landed a No. 5 seed in the playoffs only to lose to Farmington by a score of 48-20 in the first round. The Sundevils do graduate Marcos Flores one of the best athletes in Northern New Mexico and also graduate 17 seniors, likely one of their biggest senior classes in the last 15-20-years.
Star Power: Tommy Trujillo, 5-foot-8, 160 pounds, Running Back, Ran for over 600-yards and scored 10 touchdowns as a junior.
Keep An Eye On: Carlos Gonzales, 5-foot-8, 180 pound linebacker, Antonio Curtis, 6-foot-3, 160 pound defensive linemen, Leo Pacheco, 6-foot-3, 270 pound Offensive Linemen
No. 42 Portales Rams
Head Coach: Jaime Ramirez
2015 Record: 11-1
2016 Early Outlook: The Portales Rams won 11 games in a row last season before losing to Robertson 26-14 in the 4A semifinals. A very impressive run by Portales no doubt in a season which they outscored opponents 470-101. They graduate Bronte Staugaard who ran for 1,901-yards and scored 24 touchdowns, but they return good talent on both sides of the football which should keep them very competitive.
Star Power: Junior Ramirez, Quarterback, 5-foot-8, 155 pounds, Class of 2017, Threw for 1,185-yards and 16 touchdowns, also ran for 994-yards and 16 touchdowns;
Keep An Eye On: Darion Ontiveros, 5-foot-10, 145, Athlete, Class of 2017, Caught for 446-yards and 7 touchdowns, 47 tackles, 4 interceptions; Jeremy Karngbaye, 6-foot-4, 210 pounds, Defensive End, Class of 2017, 51 tackles 7.5 sacks
No. 43 Miyamura Patriots
2015 Record: 3-7
Head Coach: WH Shark
2016 Early Outlook: The Patriots went 3-7 during the 2015 season losing their last 6 games of the season, their last game of the season Aztec posted 70 points on the defense. Top 50 team really? Good question as just back in 2014 they won a school best 10 games. The biggest blow will be losing three year starting running back AJ Starkovich who ran for 1,200-yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior in 2015. Matt Chavez returns at quarterback, he threw for 600-yards last year as a sophomore, he also ran for 400-yards, somewhat of a dual threat guy. Giovanni Chidoa returns at receiver and they return Kyle Keeler at back who had 94 tackles as a junior along with Jose Sanchez who had 10.5 sacks.
Star Power: Matt Chavez, Class of 2018, Quarterback, 5-foot-8, 170. Threw for 600-yards and rushed for 400-yards as a sophomore.
Keep An Eye On: Giovanni Chioda, Class of 2018, Receiver/Defensive Back, 5-foot-9, 155 pounds, Caught for 200-yards and had 2 interceptions on defense; Kyle Keeler, Class of 2017, Linebacker, 5-foot-11, 230 pounds, 94 tackles as a junior; Jose Sanchez, Class of 2017, 5-foot-11, 185 pounds, 10.5 sacks, Austin Woods, Class of 2017, Linebacker, 5-foot-9, 175 pounds, 6.0 sacks
No. 44 Bloomfield Bobcats
2015 Record: 9-2
Head Coach: Bob Allcorn
2016 Early Outlook: Entering his third year as Head Coach at Bloomfield, Bob Allcorn has a record of 18-4. For the second year in a row the Bobcats went 9-2 on the season beating Taos in the opening round, then losing to Robertson 49-6 in the Quarterfinals. The Bobcats have proven to be a bit more balanced on offense compared to when Allcorn was coach at Moriarty and the Bobcats will return a three year starter in Brenden Charley who threw for close to 1,200-yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior in 2015. The Bobcats graduate all three of their leading rushers as well as their two top receivers. They have one or two big bodies returning, but didn’t seem to have much last year up front. The Bobcats will jump to 5A this coming year and be along side Four Corner District Teams such as Aztec, Farmington, Gallup, Kirkland, and Miyamura. If they can muster more than 6 wins, it will be just as impressive as when they won 9 in Class 4A.
Star Power: Brenden Charley, Quarterback, 6-foot-3, 175 pounds, Class of 2017, Threw for 1,100-yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior.
Keep An Eye On: D. O’Neil, Running Back, Class of 2018, Ran for 234-yards and 2 touchdowns; Adriano Stevenson, Receiver, Class of 2017, Caught for 214-yards and 3 touchdowns; Angelo Atencio, Linebacker, record 80 tackles as just a freshmen,
No. 45 Ruidoso Warriors
2015 Record: 5-7
Head Coach: Kief Johnson
2016 Early Outlook: Two seasons ago the Warriors were your Class 4A State Champs, last season they were two games under .500 still reaching the playoffs beating Hot Springs in the opening round, then losing to Cobre in the Quarterfinals 35-7. This coming year should be fruitful for the Warriors with a good Class of 2017 returning. They return their Starting Quarterback Kyler Woodul, Starting Running Back Cisco Mayville, Leading receiver, and leading tackler Felix Martinez.
Star Power: Cisco Mayville, Running Back, Class of 2017, Ran for 1,317-yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior during the 2015 season. Quarterback Kyler Woodul threw for 1,916-yards and 9 touchdowns.
Keep An Eye On: Isaiah Otero, Receiver, Class of 2018, Caught for 749-yards and 5 touchdowns as a sophomore. Felix Martinez, Class of 2017, Linebacker/Defensive Linemen recorded 96 total tackles.
No. 46 Lovington Wildcats
2015 Record: 1-9
Head Coach: Anthony Gonzales *1st Year
2016 Early outlook: Since the Wildcat’s move up to Class 5A the Wildcats are a combined 6-14, but what is even more concerning to Wildcat fans is the fact that they have have not reached the playoffs since the 2012 season. After the 2015 season longtime Lovington Head Football Coach Jamie Quinones was let go and in his place is Anthony Gonzales who was the former Defensive Coordinator at Dunbar High School in Texas. The good news is that Lovington will start from scratch and returns plenty of new names into the 2016 season.
Star Power: Brook Quinones, Sr., QB, 6-foot-1, 150 showed signs of being a strong quarterback during the late season as a junior.
Keep An Eye On: Kenny Oliver, JR., WR, 6-foot-3, 195; Isaiah Hinson, Jr., RB, 6-foot-0, 188; Preston White, 6-foot-5, 234 DE
2016 Schedule
8/26 @ Denver City, TX
9/2 Portales
9/9 Ruidoso
9/9 Hobbs
9/16 Hobbs
9/24 @ St. Pius X
9/30 Capital
10/7 @ Santa Teresa
10/21 @ Goddard
10/28 Roswell
11/4 Artesia
No. 47 Eunice Cardinals
Head Coach: Ken Stevens
2015 Record: 8-4
2016 Early Outlook: Under first year Head Coach Ken Stevens the Eunice Cardinals won an impressive 8 games and won two playoff games beating Capitan and then upset Calyton in the quarterfinals 26-22. Losing Blane Ferbrache who ran for 1,200-yards and Aaron Madrid who hit 1,000-yards will be tough losses to replace, but we saw quite a few underclassmen start to rise up as the season progressed. Freshmen Evan Mccalip caught two touchdown passes last year, Sophomore Kadin Hughes had 38 tackles, and Twin Brothers Kari and Tari York should be a very good tandem during their junior year.
Star Power: Kari York and Tari York, each of the York brothers recorded over 30 tackles during their senior season and should be impact players two-ways in 2016. Tari York is 5-foot-8, 150 pounds, Kari is 5-foot-8, 145 pounds.
Keep An Eye On: Evan McCalip, 6-foot-3, 160, WR/LB, Johan Juarez, ATH, 6-foot-1, 188 Pounds, Jacob Mendoza, DL, 6-1, 225 pounds, Travis Hacker, DL, 6-4, 245 pounds
No. 48 Texico Wolverines
Head Coach: Ryan Autrey
2015 Record: 4-8
2016 Early Outlook: Last year the Wolverines completed the season with a record of 4-8 despite having wins over Santa Rosa, Clayton, and Tucumcari in the first round of the playoffs. An ugly 54-0 loss to Estancia in the quarterfinals ended their season, the good news is they graduate just 5 seniors from the Class of 2016. They have plenty of playmakers returning into the season. Hard to imagine these guys having another sub. 500 year.
Star Power: Mason Golden, 6-foot-0, 220 pound Running Back. Golden has been one of the top small school running backs and linebackers for the last two seasons. Very strong, hard nose runner, who is likely a next level guy.
Keep An Eye On: Lance Myers, QB, 5-11, 170, Trent Autrey, 5-foot-9, 145, ATH, Brayden Herrington, DL, 6-foot-0, 225, Devin Rose, DL, 6-foot-0, 220, Videal Torres, 6-foot-1, 220
No. 49. Escalante Lobos
Head Coach: Dusty Giles
2015 Record: 11-1 *Class 2A State Champs
2016 Early Outlook: Escalante Lobo Head Football Coach Dusty Giles has the Lobos straight rolling. Since the 2014 season the Lobos are a remarkable 23-1 over the two seasons and have won three state championships since the 2012 season. Last season the Lobos topped Ft. Sumner 28-20 in the finals and were led by Senior Standout Dominic Montano who accumulated over 2,800-yards and 53 touchdowns on the season. Who will step up and take over Montano’s spot? Waylon Hinds and Diego Aguilar each rushed for over 400-yards last season. In total Escalante will return a total of 30 varsity lettermen and graduate 14 seniors.
Star Power: Diego Aguilar is a 5-foot-6, 150 pound Class of 2017 prospect who rushed for over 400-yards last season.
Keep An Eye On: Waylon Hinds, 5-foot-5, 130 pounds; Tristan Martinez, 5-foot-9, 145 pounds, Joseph Martinez, 5-foot-9, 160 pounds
No. 50 Melrose Buffaloes
Head Coach: Dickie Roybal
2015 Record: 13-0 *8Man State Champs
2016 Early Outlook: The Melrose Buffs are 24-1 over the last two seasons under Head Coach Dickie Roybal. Last season the Buffs defeated the Gateway Christian Warriors 30-28 in the 8Man Finals and though they lose quite a bit of talent to graduation, we expect Melrose to be the clear favorite in 8Man once again.
Star Power: Cade Barnard, QB, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds. Will only be a junior during the 2016 season and is one 8Man prospect that could be a D1 type prospect. Comes from a strong bloodline of big time athletes.
Keep An Eye On: Blake Devaney, DL, 5-11, 225
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