Go!!

What are some key questions heading into this weekend?

Grine's Saturday Morning Coffee: Week 8 Recap

NMPreps publisher Joshua Grine captures the main headlines from Friday night in New Mexico high school football. With district play in full swing and the November playoffs quickly approaching, we break down the key implications of each game from an action-packed evening.

---

First Cheers: Eldorado Wins Potential Elimination Game

No. 14 Eldorado (4-3, 2-2) and No. 24 Sandia (3-4, 2-2) faced a must-win situation, and the Eldorado Eagles held on for a dramatic 14-10 victory. Eldorado sophomore Jahari Morehead made the play of the game, returning a punt for a touchdown while his team was down 10-7, turning the tide and securing the Eagles' spot in the playoff conversation. The victory positions Eldorado to claim one of the possible four district bids, keeping their postseason hopes alive.

---

Second Cheers: 2A Top Ranking Showdown

The 2A showdown between No. 1 Texico and No. 2 Eunice was one for the ages. Eunice jumped out to a commanding 21-0 first-half lead, but the Texico Wolverines stormed back, ultimately winning 36-28 in a thrilling comeback. The Wolverines improved to 7-0, essentially locking up the District 3-2A title and positioning themselves for the top seed in the playoffs. With both teams likely to make deep playoff runs, this could be the first of two epic matchups as they may meet again in the state championship game.

---

Third Cheers: Robertson Holds Bragging Rights in Las Vegas Rivalry

The battle for Las Vegas remained in the hands of the Robertson Cardinals (8-0, 2-0), who narrowly escaped an upset bid from rival West Las Vegas (3-4, 0-1) in a thrilling 28-26 victory. Robertson quarterback Jesse James Gonzales led the way with a 7-yard touchdown run, followed by a 62-yard touchdown pass to Nathaniel Gonzalez. Gonzales also connected on a 41-yard score, while George Smith electrified the crowd with an 85-yard kick return. West Las Vegas kept it close, with their quarterback answering with a 3-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter. However, the Robertson defense stood strong, denying a crucial two-point conversion to secure the win and keep the Cardinals undefeated.

Rapid Fire

3-3A Battle: Dexter (8-0, 4-0) maintained their unbeaten record, fighting off Socorro (5-2, 2-1) with a 44-29 win to take the lead in district play. Hatch Valley (5-3, 2-2) kept their playoff hopes alive with a crucial 32-27 victory over Ruidoso (1-6, 1-2), while Hot Springs (4-3, 1-2) dominated Cobre (2-6, 0-4) in a 35-12 win to tighten things up in this competitive district. NMMI (5-2, 2-1) secured a 33-21 victory over El Paso Cathedral on Thursday night.

Clovis Gives Organ Mountain a Scare: Clovis (0-7, 0-3) showed some fight, taking a surprising 24-21 lead over Organ Mountain (4-4, 3-1) in the first half. However, the Knights woke up in the second half as Xavier Perez scored the go-ahead touchdown to make it 28-24, and they never looked back, pulling away for a 42-24 victory.

Rio Rancho Fends Off Piedra Vista for Key Win: The No. 6 Rio Rancho Rams (5-2, 2-0) narrowly avoided an upset bid from No. 23 Piedra Vista Panthers (1-6, 0-2), holding on for a 36-33 victory. Rio Rancho jumped out to an early lead with quarterback Micah Takahashi scoring on a pair of 1-yard rushing touchdowns, putting the Rams up 14-3. Gavien Smith extended the lead with a 5-yard rushing touchdown to make it 22-3. Piedra Vista fought back, cutting the deficit to 29-18 after a 1-yard touchdown run by James Barreras for Rio Rancho. Takahashi then connected with Parker Miller for a 9-yard touchdown pass, giving the Rams a 36-25 cushion. In the closing moments, Piedra Vista's Brig Keiser found the end zone with a 7-yard touchdown, and Reuben Martinez added a two-point conversion to make it 36-33. Despite the late surge, the Panthers couldn't complete the comeback, and Rio Rancho escaped with the win, maintaining their unbeaten record in district play.

Hozho Academy Makes History: Abraham Azua connected with Brandon Blue Eyes for a 21-yard touchdown, giving Hozho Academy (4-3, 1-1) an early 7-0 lead over the Newcomb Skyhawks (4-3, 0-2). The Wolves held on for a thrilling 41-36 win, marking their first district victory as a varsity program. With their rapid progress, Hozho Academy may be on track for a playoff appearance in just their first season.

Atrisco Heritage Ends Losing Streak: Atrisco Heritage (2-5, 1-3) claimed a 24-18 win over Santa Fe (2-5, 0-4) in the District 2-6A cellar showdown. Santa Fe was without head coach Andrew Martinez, who is on administrative leave. While playoff hopes seem slim for both teams, the Jaguars snapped a three-game losing streak, rebounding from last week’s tough six-point loss to West Mesa.

Pirates Make the Tigers Walk the Plank in Upset Win: The No. 6-ranked (NMPreps 4A Rankings) Taos Tigers (4-3, 2-2) fell in a nail-biter on the road against the No. 10 (4A) Grants Pirates (4-3, 3-1), losing 21-19 in a pivotal district showdown. The win extends Grants’ win streak to three games, positioning the Pirates for a possible top-8 seed in the state playoffs. Grants took a 21-13 lead with a crucial 3-yard touchdown run, putting them in control late in the game. However, Taos rallied, with Mateo Salazar breaking free for a 15-yard touchdown with under a minute left, cutting the lead to 21-19. The Tigers opted to go for a two-point conversion to tie the game but the Pirates' defense stood firm, denying the attempt and securing the upset victory.

Post here

What do you have?

Game day is in California, and the crowd is wild and rambunctious! What games will you be watching today?

Can the Lobos beat Air Force?

Oregon and Ohio State who do you got?

Can Diego and Vandy keep it going with a game vs Kentucky?

Thursday, October 10th
Chaparral 20, Silver 14 - F
Cuba 36, Navajo Prep 32 - F
Dora 58, NMSD 26 - F
New Mexico Military 33, EP-Cathedral TX 21 - F
La Cueva 63, Los Lunas 31 - F
Volcano Vista 41, Farmington 7 - F

Friday, October 11th
Alamo Navajo 50, Northwest 0 - F
Atrisco Heritage 24, Santa Fe 18 - F
Bernalillo 62, Aztec 12 - F
Bloomfield 42, Moriarty 0 - F
Carlsbad 26, Alamogordo 21 - F
Centennial 51, Hobbs 12 - F
Cleveland 55, Cibola 0 - F
Crownpoint 46, Zuni 0 - F
Dexter 44, Socorro 29 - F
Dulce 64, Pine Hill 18 - F
Eldorado 14, Sandia 10 - F
Espanola Valley 31, Kirtland 15 - F
Ft Sumner 52, Clayton 6 - F
Gateway Christian 57, Tatum 0 - F
Grants 21, Taos 19 - F
Hatch Valley 32, Ruidoso 27 - F
Hope Christian 35, Pojoaque 6 - F
Hot Springs 35, Cobre 12 - F
Hozho Academy 41, Newcomb 36 - F
Legacy Academy 54, Capitan 0 - F
McCurdy 41, Laguna-Acoma 30 - F
Melrose 52, Mescalero Apache 0 - F
Menual 40, Escalante 37 - F
Navajo Pine 66, Ramah 24 - F
Organ Mountain 42, Clovis 24 - F
Raton 43, Tucumcari 13 - F
Rio Rancho 36, Piedra Vista 33 - F
Robertson 28, West Las Vegas 26 - F
Roy/Mosquero 59, Floyd 6 - F
Santa Rosa 54, Estancia 0 - F
St. Pius X 48, Portales 18 - F
Texico 36, Eunice 28 - F
Tohatchi 48, Shiprock 6 - F
Tularosa 12, Loving 6 - F
West Mesa 21, Albuquerque High 20 - F

Animas at Mountainair (Missing Score)
Elida at Grady (Missing Score)
Gallup at Wingate (Missing Score)
Hagerman/Lake Arthur at Lordsburg (Missing Score)
Hondo Valley at Magdalena (Missing Score)
Jal vs JV Team (Missing Score)
Santa Fe Indian at Thoreau (Missing Score)

Saturday, October 12th
Manzano (5-1) at Albuquerque Academy (2-4), 1pm

Offered by San Jose State

Most Intriguing Score from Friday Night Week 8

***WEEK 8 PICK EM CHALLENGE***

You pick the winners, we track the points! Who among you is the best at predicting the outcomes of New Mexico high school football games each week? It’s simple: we select five games weekly, assign points for choosing favorites or upsets, and you submit your picks for each game. We’ll maintain a leaderboard throughout the season to see who comes out on top!

Alamogordo (1-6) at Carlsbad (3-4), +800 (Alamogordo is the upset +850)
Dexter (7-0) at Socorro (5-1), +850 either way
Sandia (3-3) at Eldorado (3-3), +850 either way
Robertson (7-0) at West Las Vegas (3-3), +800 (WLV is the upset +875)
Eunice (5-1) at Texico (6-0), +800 (Eunice is the upset +875)


Sorry for the delay!

A trips round trip. Shorter miles this week... district rolls on.

10 Toas vs Grant's. 414 miles
9. Clayton vs Ft Sumner. 420 miles
8. St Pius vs Portales 462 miles
7. Dora vs NMSD. 477 miles
6. Alamo NaVajo vs Shiprock Northwest 485 miles
5. Hobbs vs Centennial 502 miles
4. Tse Yi Gae vs Logan 560 miles
3. Organ Mountain vs Clovis 586 miles
2. Animas vs Mountainair 594 mile
1. Hagerman vs Lordsburg 630 miles

Be safe

NMPreps Week 8 Bold Statements: Grine Unleashing the Chaos in 6A

Welcome to Week 8, where the predictions are as bold as a bear paw and the wordplay is only slightly less fierce! Let’s dive into the wild world of New Mexico high school football with some truly bold (and perhaps ridiculous) statements. You may want to buckle up for this one—it’s going to get punny.

La Cueva Bears completely maul the Los Lunas Tigers in a mercy rule game.
The Bears didn’t just beat the Tigers, they put them in a zoo exhibit. Los Lunas barely had time to growl before La Cueva unleashed a full-on mauling, sending the game into a mercy-rule meltdown. Somebody call animal control—this one’s already over.

The Farmington Scorpions sting the Hawks in the first quarter, but the Hawks prevail by three touchdowns.
Farmington came in like a scorpion ready to strike—first quarter stinger and all! But the Hawks just shook it off, stretched their wings, and flew away with three touchdowns, leaving the Scorpions' sting feeling more like a tickle by the end.

Clovis gets to double digits vs Organ Mountain but falls by 40.
Clovis finally cracks double digits! The bad news? Organ Mountain treated those 10 points like spare change, and handed Clovis a 40-point "thanks for playing" consolation. At least they’re inching closer… right?

Santa Fe and Atrisco Heritage play for their last win of the season, a Demon stumbles to a hungry Jaguar by 20.
It's desperation mode for both teams, but in this battle of mythological creatures, it’s the hungry Jaguar that sinks its teeth into a Demon that trips on its own pitchfork. Santa Fe stumbles, and Atrisco picks up their final feast of the season—by 20 points.

The Storm rains down on the Cougars; kitties don’t like getting wet—Cleveland mercy rules Cibola.
When it rains, it pours. And when you’re a Cougar caught in a Cleveland Storm, there’s no umbrella big enough. These kitties definitely didn’t like getting wet—Cleveland brings the thunder and a mercy rule flood for Cibola.

Can the Matadors pull the rug out on the Eagles? Playoffs on the line—three’s a charm for Sandia over Eldorado?
I’ve picked Sandia more times than I’d like to admit, but this time I’ve got a feeling. Will the Matadors finally pull the rug out from under the Eagles, or will I be the fool again? Playoffs are on the line and Sandia’s due—third time’s the charm… right?

Centennial Hawks thrash the Hobbs Eagles—no flight zone in Las Cruces.
This one’s simple: Hawks own the sky, Eagles get grounded. Centennial enforces a strict “no-flight zone” in Las Cruces, and Hobbs’ wings never even had a chance to flap. Hawks by a thrashing.

Alamogordo Tigers look to finish off the Carlsbad Cavemen for good.
Carlsbad limped in after being ambushed by a Knight, but they’re walking into an even worse fate. The Tigers smell blood and are ready to turn out the Cavemen’s lights for good, possibly sending Carlsbad’s playoff hopes straight into extinction.

West Mesa Mustangs stampede over Albuquerque Bulldogs—‘bad dog!’
We had the Bulldogs riding high at 4-1, but here come the West Mesa Mustangs, ready to stampede all over the dog park. The Mustangs say "bad dog" to Albuquerque and gallop away with a 14-point win.

Rio Rancho Rams send Piedra Vista Panthers back to the NW with a 25-point loss.
Piedra Vista puffed their chest out after Week 1, but the Rams are about to send these Panthers limping back to the Northwest. It’s a bad week to be a cat in 6A football, and Rio Rancho’s handing out L’s like candy on Halloween—by 25 points, no less.

And there you have it—our boldest, most unscientific, and entirely-too-witty predictions for Week 8! Let’s see how many of these statements turn into headlines, or if we’ll be eating our words come next week. Either way, it’s going to be a wild ride!

FYI ---- Just a fun feature for readers.

What do you have?

NMPreps Official Week 8 Thursday Preview: Predictions & Game Breakdowns​

As Week 8 of New Mexico High School Football approaches, Thursday night is set to feature some high-stakes matchups, particularly in the 6A division. Let’s take a comprehensive look at the games lined up for Thursday night:

INSIDE THE TOP 25

#1 La Cueva (6-0) vs #11 Los Lunas (4-1)
6A Football. Wilson Stadium, 7:00 PM

This District 2-6A matchup could very well determine the district champion. Both teams are 3-0 in district play, with La Cueva boasting a perfect 6-0 record on the season. Their wins include triumphs over tough opponents like Volcano Vista (21-0) and Sandia (42-19). Los Lunas comes into the game at 4-1, having lost only to Cleveland (55-7), but with solid wins over Farmington (37-28) and West Mesa (54-21). La Cueva's offense is led by Arizona State commit Cameron Dyer, who has accumulated 1,915 total yards and 23 touchdowns across six games. He’s coming off an efficient game against Eldorado, throwing for 230 yards and 5 TDs. Bears receiver Tanner Montano continues to be a major weapon and could have another 100-yard game. Los Lunas relies on a ground game spearheaded by Jaggar Casillas (347 yards) and QB Kaiden Reese, who has 277 rushing yards and 536 passing yards. However, they face a tough challenge against La Cueva’s defense.

Prediction: La Cueva 54, Los Lunas 7
Grine’s Take: La Cueva’s defense will be hard to break, but Reese might manage to break free for one score.

#4 Volcano Vista (5-1) vs #15 Farmington (3-3)
6A Football. Nusenda Community Stadium, 7:00 PM

This District 1-6A battle features a Volcano Vista team looking to continue their hot streak, coming off a 48-7 win over Piedra Vista. Their only loss this season came against La Cueva (21-0). Senior QB Ilijah Hanson has 887 passing yards and 9 TDs, while the rushing attack is anchored by Mason Gurule and standout freshman Dangelo Mitchell. Farmington has shown flashes, with wins over Clovis and Durango, CO, but they’ve also been shut out twice, including last week’s 50-0 loss to Cleveland. They’ll need to rely on weapons like Taushaun King and Michael Beck to have any chance against Volcano Vista’s balanced attack.

Prediction: Volcano Vista 44, Farmington 27
Grine’s Take: Farmington’s Beck is a star, but Volcano Vista’s balance on both sides of the ball should guide them to a comfortable win.

OUTSIDE THE TOP 25

Silver (2-5) at Chaparral (2-5)
4A Football. 7:00 PM

Both teams enter this game with identical 2-5 records, but Chaparral is 1-2 in district play and can still make a historic push for the playoffs. Silver, 0-3 in district, has been competitive but has struggled to finish games, particularly against district leaders like Portales and St. Pius X. Chaparral’s defense is anchored by one of 4A’s top defenders, Manny Rodriguez, and if they can keep Silver’s offense in check, they might be able to eke out a close win.
Prediction: Chaparral 14, Silver 13
Grine’s Take: My gut says Silver could finally break through, but their offensive struggles give me pause. I’m leaning slightly toward Silver getting the win.

New Mexico Military Institute (4-2) at El Paso-Cathedral, TX (4-1)
3A Football. 7:00 PM

NMMI will try to rebound from last week’s 38-0 loss to Dexter by hitting the road to face a strong Cathedral team out of El Paso. Cathedral has averaged 45 points per game this season, led by standout defender Ignacio Gomez. NMMI will lean on senior RB Tegin Maloney and senior QB Cole Seidenberger, who has 9 rushing TDs this season.
Prediction: NMMI 33, Cathedral 30
Grine’s Take: NMMI has to reignite their offense after last week’s shutout. This will be a close game, but I think NMMI pulls it off.

Cuba (1-5) at Navajo Prep (4-1)
2A Football. 7:00 PM

Navajo Prep is a contender for the District 1-2A title and is coming off an impressive start to district play. Cuba, on the other hand, picked up their first win last week over Hozho Academy, 26-8 starting district play 1-0. However, Xavier Nez of Navajo Prep is a player to watch, and he should lead his team to another district victory.
Prediction: Navajo Prep 35, Cuba 7
Grine’s Take: Cuba might make it interesting early calling it 7-6 Cuba lead after one, but Navajo Prep should pull away by the second half.

Week 8 New Mexico High School Football: 8-Man Football Preview

Week 8 in New Mexico 8-man football brings several intriguing matchups, including a game-of-the-week showdown between two top teams, Clayton and Fort Sumner/House. Here's a quick look at the key games happening this week:

Friday​

Alamo Navajo (1-6) at Northwest (0-2) – 5 p.m.​

Hagerman/Lake Arthur (2-3) at Lordsburg (3-3) – 6 p.m.​

Pine Hill (2-3) at Dulce (2-4) – 7 p.m.​

Gateway Christian (4-2) at Tatum (4-3) – 7 p.m.​

Mescalero Apache (3-3) at Melrose (7-0) – 7 p.m.​

Menaul (3-3) at Escalante (3-4) – 7 p.m.​

Clayton (5-1) at Fort Sumner/House (5-0) – 7 p.m.​

Saturday

Cloudcroft (1-5) at Questa (4-3) - 4pm

---

Game of the Week: Clayton (5-1) at Fort Sumner/House (5-0)​

This week’s marquee matchup pits Clayton against undefeated Fort Sumner/House in a battle of two high-powered teams. Clayton, enters the game with a 5-1 record, with their only loss coming to Turpin, Oklahoma. Fort Sumner/House, the top-ranked team in Class 8-Man, has dominated opponents with a perfect 5-0 record, outscoring their competition 280-18 this season.

Fort Sumner/House has been nearly unstoppable, particularly in the first half, where they average a staggering 39 points in the opening quarter alone and 53 per game. Clayton, on the other hand, relies on balanced scoring, led by quarterback Daniel Manquero and standout ATH Omar Valdez.

Key Players:

• Clayton: QB Daniel Manquero has been solid, while ATH Omar Valdez continues to make big plays for the Yellowjackets.
• Fort Sumner/House: Sophomore QB Jordan Hollan has been a stud for Fort Sumner/House, displaying impressive poise and decision-making. His leadership has propelled the team to aperfect season so far.

Expect a highly competitive game between these two powerhouses as both teams fight to establish themselves as the frontrunner in 8-man football heading into the later stages of the season.

Prediction: Fort Sumner/House 66, Clayton 42

Post yours now

Grine Breaks Down District 3-6A Race as Week 8 Approaches

As Week 8 approaches, District 3-6A is shaping up to be a highly competitive race with Centennial emerging as the clear favorite. With an undefeated record and impressive wins, Centennial is now in the conversation to challenge top-ranked La Cueva from District 2-6A for the state championship. Meanwhile, Las Cruces is holding steady as the favorite to claim the runner-up spot, while Organ Mountain's big win over Carlsbad last week has kept their playoff hopes alive. The upcoming Alamogordo vs. Carlsbad game could be crucial for both teams’ postseason chances.

Centennial: The Championship Contender​

Centennial (6-0, 2-0 district) has been nothing short of dominant this season, posting six straight wins and averaging nearly 50 points per game. Their offense has been explosive, highlighted by key victories over Cleveland (35-28), Artesia (70-39), and Rio Rancho (43-27). The Hawks have shown they are ready to compete with anyone in the state, making them serious contenders for the 6A state title.

Their latest win, a 61-35 blowout over Alamogordo, only solidified their standing as one of the top teams in New Mexico. With their offense firing on all cylinders and a defense capable of making big plays, Centennial is in prime position to make a deep playoff run.

Las Cruces: Solid in Second Place​

Las Cruces (5-2, 3-0 district) has bounced back strong after two early-season losses to Cleveland and Volcano Vista. The Bulldawgs are now riding a three-game winning streak, with dominating victories over Hobbs (44-14), Organ Mountain (55-7), and Clovis (55-3). Their defense has been stout, giving up just 24 points in district play, while the offense has been equally impressive, scoring 287 points through seven games.

Las Cruces is the clear favorite to finish second in the district, but they’ll need to keep their momentum going as they prepare for a potential playoff run. With Centennial looming at the top of the standings, the Bulldawgs will likely need to play their best football to challenge for the district title.

Hobbs: In the Middle of the Pack​

Hobbs (3-3, 1-1 district) has been a bit of a wildcard this season, showing moments of brilliance but also suffering some tough losses. After a hot start with wins over Artesia and Parkland (TX), the Eagles have hit a rough patch, including a 44-14 loss to Las Cruces. However, Hobbs bounced back with a win over Alamogordo and will look to finish the season strong.

The Eagles’ upcoming games against Centennial and Organ Mountain will be critical in determining their playoff fate.

Organ Mountain: A Revival of Playoff Hopes​

Organ Mountain (3-4, 2-1 district) kept their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling 41-40 overtime victory against Carlsbad last week. This huge program win has given them a shot at securing a playoff spot, but they’ll need to keep the momentum going in their remaining games.

Despite a tough start to the season, including losses to Mayfield and Deming, the Knights have shown resilience in district play. Their defense has struggled at times, allowing 200 points this season, but if they can build on their recent win and continue to improve, they could sneak into the postseason.

Alamogordo vs. Carlsbad: A Pivotal Game​

The upcoming matchup between Alamogordo (1-6, 0-3 district) and Carlsbad (3-4, 1-2 district) will be a key game for both teams’ playoff aspirations. Carlsbad, despite a tough overtime loss to Organ Mountain, is still in the hunt for a postseason spot. The Cavemen’s victories over Goddard and Cibola earlier in the season showed they can compete, but they’ll need a win over Alamogordo to stay in the race.

Alamogordo, on the other hand, has had a difficult season, but they’ve shown flashes of potential. Their lone win came in overtime against Piedra Vista, and while they’ve struggled in district play, a victory over Carlsbad could provide a much-needed boost. However, with Centennial and Hobbs still on their schedule, Alamogordo faces an uphill battle to make the playoffs.

Clovis: Still Searching for Their First Win​

Clovis (0-6, 0-2 district) has had a tough season, and they’re still searching for their first victory. The Wildcats have struggled mightily on both sides of the ball, being outscored 298-31 this season. With Centennial and Las Cruces still left on their schedule, the road ahead doesn’t get any easier. While their playoff hopes are all but gone, Clovis will look to play spoil er as they finish out the year.

Playoff Outlook​

As the District 3-6A race comes down to the wire, Centennial is the clear front-runner, with Las Cruces locked in as a strong second-place contender. The real battle lies in the race for third place and the final playoff spots. Organ Mountain, Carlsbad, and Hobbs are all in the mix, and the head-to-head matchups in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the district’s postseason picture.

The Alamogordo vs. Carlsbad game will play a major role in shaping the playoff field, while Hobbs’ upcoming tests against Centennial and Organ Mountain could decide their fate. With Centennial eyeing a potential state championship run and several teams fighting for playoff berths, District 3-6A promises plenty of excitement as the regular season winds down.

Grine Breaks Down District 2-6A Race as Week 8 Approaches

District 2-6A has been dominated by one team from the start of the season: La Cueva. Ranked No. 1 for eight consecutive weeks, the Bears have shown no signs of slowing down as they march toward a potential undefeated season. However, there’s more intrigue in this district beyond La Cueva’s dominance, with teams like Los Lunas, Albuquerque High, and Sandia battling for playoff positioning. As we head into Week 8, here’s a breakdown of the district’s key players and potential playoff scenarios.

La Cueva: The Unstoppable Force​

LACueva (6-0, 3-0 district) has been nothing short of dominant all season, outscoring opponents 251-85. Their latest victory, a 56-7 thrashing of Eldorado, was a statement to the rest of the district. With six straight wins, including victories over top teams like Volcano Vista and Farmington, La Cueva has firmly established itself as the team to beat. Their offense has been unstoppable, led by a balanced attack that can beat teams on the ground and through the air. On the other side of the ball, their defense has been equally suffocating, giving up just 40 points in district play so far.

With the district title in sight, La Cueva’s remaining schedule looks manageable. If they continue playing at this level, they’ll not only claim the district crown but also enter the state playoffs as the No. 1 overall seed. The question isn’t whether La Cueva will win the district, but how far they’ll go in the postseason.

Los Lunas: The Best of the Rest​

Los Lunas (4-1, 3-0 district) has quietly put together an impressive season, sitting just behind La Cueva in the district standings. The Tigers have won four straight games, including a convincing 28-7 win over Albuquerque High last week. Their lone loss came at the hands of Cleveland, but since then, Los Lunas has looked sharp on both sides of the ball.

While it’s unlikely Los Lunas will catch La Cueva, they are in excellent position to secure the second spot in District 2-6A and a solid seed in the state playoffs. If they can maintain their current form, a deep playoff run could be in the cards. However, they’ll need to stay focused, as their next fewgames will be crucial in locking up that second-place finish.

West Mesa: A Sleeper in the Race for Third​

West Mesa (3-3, 1-2 district) is still very much in the hunt for third place in the district, despite two tough losses to top teams Los Lunas and La Cueva. The Mustangs have shown resilience this season, with big wins over St. Pius X, Mayfield, and Atrisco Heritage. Their most recent victory, a 22-16 win over Atrisco Heritage, has kept them in the thick of the playoff race.

With a strong offensive unit, West Mesa has the tools to finish strong and challenge for third place. If they can capitalize on their remaining games and earn some key wins, they could secure a playoff spot, proving that they’re a force to be reckoned with in District 2-6A.

The Battle for Third Place: West Mesa, Albuquerque High, Sandia, and Eldorado​

The race for third place is wide open, with several teams still in the hunt. West Mesa currently has the edge, but Albuquerque High (4-2, 2-1 district), Sandia (3-3, 2-1 district), and Eldorado (3-3, 1-2 district) are all within striking distance.

• Albuquerque High (4-2, 2-1 district) has had a solid season, with key wins over Valley, Alamogordo, and Santa Fe. Their loss to Los Lunas in Week 7 dropped them out of second place contention, but they remain in the race for third. The Bulldogs will need a strong finish, and their matchup with West Mesa will be pivotal.
• Sandia (3-3, 2-1 district) has rebounded after a rough start to district play, winning two straight games against Santa Fe and Atrisco Heritage. The Matadors’ defense has been stellar, allowing just 62 points in district competition, but they’ll need to keep up their momentum to challenge for a playoff spot.
• Eldorado (3-3, 1-2 district) started the season strong but has hit a rough patch with back-to-back losses to Los Lunas and La Cueva. At 1-2 in district play, the Eagles need to turn things around quickly if they want to stay in the playoff conversation. Their defense will need to step up, and they’ll need to pull off a few upsets to keep their hopes alive.

Atrisco Heritage and Santa Fe: Out of the Picture​

Atrisco Heritage (1-5, 0-3 district) and Santa Fe (2-4, 0-3 district) are both effectively out of playoff contention. Atrisco Heritage has struggled mightily in district play, with their only win coming against Rio Grande, while Santa Fe has been unable to gain traction this season. Both teams will look to play spoiler in the final weeks of the season, but their playoff hopes are slim.

Playoff Outlook: How Many Teams Will Make It?​

With La Cueva and Los Lunas looking like locks for playoff spots, the big question is how many other teams from District 2-6A will earn a bid. West Mesa, Albuquerque High, Sandia, and Eldorado are all in contention for third place, and depending on how the rest of the season shakes out, we could see as many as four teams from this district in the playoffs.

Much will depend on how West Mesa, Albuquerque High, and Sandia fare in their remaining games. The head-to-head matchups between these teams will be critical in determining who earns the third playoff spot, and potentially a fourth, depending on the overall state rankings.

Key Games to Watch​

• West Mesa vs. Albuquerque High: A key game for both teams’ playoff chances. A win for West Mesa would solidify their position in the top three, while a win for Albuquerque would keep them in the hunt.
• Eldorado vs. Albuquerque High: Eldorado needs this game to stay alive in the playoff race, while Albuquerque High will be looking to secure their position.
• Los Lunas vs. La Cueva: Los Lunas has a chance to challenge La Cueva’s dominance, but the Bears are heavy favorites.

Grine Breaks Down Each District 1-6A Race as Week 8 Approaches

District 1-6A is shaping up to be one of the toughest in New Mexico high school football, with all six teams ranked in the top 25 heading into Week 8. The standout teams—Cleveland, Volcano Vista, and Rio Rancho—are expected to dominate, but the battle for the final playoff spots between Farmington, Piedra Vista, and Cibola is still up in the air. With several key matchups ahead, every game will count in deciding which teams will advance to the postseason.

Cleveland: The Team to Beat​

Cleveland (5-1, 1-0 district) remains the favorite, sitting third in the state rankings after an impressive five-game winning streak. Their only loss came in a tight contest against Centennial, 35-28, and they’ve since rebounded with dominant wins, including a 50-0 blowout of Farmington last week. The Storm’s defense has been rock-solid, allowing just 94 points all season, while their offense has piled on 271 points. Their dominance in district play should continue, and they’re the clear front-runner for the District 1-6A title.

Volcano Vista: A Serious Challenger​

Volcano Vista (5-1, 1-0 district) sits just behind Cleveland in the rankings, at No. 4. The Hawks are riding a five-game winning streak and have shown both offensive firepower and defensive strength. Their most recent victory, a 48-7 rout of Piedra Vista, only solidified their status as a legitimate contender. The looming question: Can Volcano Vista upset Cleveland for the district crown? Even if they can’t, they’re aiming to secure second place and, potentially, a first-round bye in the playoffs. To do that, they must fend off Rio Rancho, who also has their eyes on that crucial spot.

Rio Rancho: The Dark Horse​

Rio Rancho (4-2, 1-0 district) is ranked sixth in the state and has momentum heading into Week 8 after a solid 28-0 win over Cibola. The Rams have been inconsistent this season, dropping games to Las Cruces and Centennial, but when they’re on their game, they’re a tough opponent for anyone. They’re still in the mix for second place in the district and could play spoiler to Volcano Vista if things break their way. Their head-to-head clash with the Hawks will be crucial in determining which team gets the coveted first-round playoff bye.

The Battle for the Final Playoff Spots​

The biggest drama in District 1-6A may not be who wins it but how many teams earn a bid to state. Three teams—Cleveland, Volcano Vista, and Rio Rancho—are almost certain to make it. But the real question is: Will there be four or five teams from this stacked district making the cut?

• Farmington (3-3, 0-1 district): Ranked 15th, the Scorpions started the season strong, but back-to-back losses, including a 50-0 thrashing by Cleveland, have them on shaky ground. They’ll need to win key games down the stretch to solidify their playoff hopes.
• Piedra Vista (1-5, 0-1 district): At 23rd in the rankings, Piedra Vista has struggled, losing five straight after a promising season opener. They’ll need a big turnaround in district play to stay in the postseason conversation.
• Cibola (2-4, 0-1 district): The Cougars are ranked 25th, and while they’ve shown flashes of competitiveness, including an overtime win against Albuquerque High, they’ll need to win out or pull off a major upset to have any hope of reaching the playoffs.

How Many Teams Will Make It?​

It’s certain that District 1 will send at least three teams to the state playoffs, but four or five bids are on the table, depending on how the rest of the season unfolds. Farmington, Piedra Vista, and Cibola are all fighting for those potential final spots, and with head-to-head matchups still ahead, the standings could shift dramatically. This race will be a toss-up, but any of these teams could squeak into the playoffs with a strong finish to their seasons.

Key Games to Watch​

• Volcano Vista vs. Rio Rancho: This game will likely determine the second-place finisher and could have major playoff seeding implications.
• Farmington vs. Cibola: A must-win for both teams if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.
• Piedra Vista vs. Farmington: Depending on how the standings shake out, this could be a do-or-die game for both teams as they vie for the last playoff spot.

Diego walked the talk today and beat Alabama.

What Kind of Dog Are You?
John Moore

In football we often describe players as dogs, or dawgs if you please. But what kind of dog are you? As coaches, it is essential to not only know what kind of dogs we have running around the field house, but what kind of dog we are. I have given this lecture on personality style many times and have added the dog portion myself. I am going to use some very general dog stereotypes and don’t want to offend any dog type or dog owner, so before you start yelling about how sweet your chihuahua is, remember I am just trying to make a point.

I am using an idea credited to William Moulton Marston circa 1928. The idea of four basic types of personality was repeated in Communication Application (Glencoe/McGraw Hill). We can all display the four types of personality depending on the situation and there is plenty of gray area. The question is, what type of coach do we want to be most of the time. DISC personality tests are available online but you probably will be able to identify where you fall most of time without the test.

The First Type of Dog: The Dominant Dog (D) – Better stay away from my food!
The two breeds of dog that come to mind are the German Shepherd and the Chihuahua. These dogs are described as mean. They have threatening barks and snarls and are extremely protective. D type coaches are task oriented. They simply want the job done and don’t care if they hurt feelings as long as they get their way. All coaches can be D dogs, especially when they feel their team needs discipline.

The Second Type of Dog: The Influencer or Interactive Dog (I) – Let’s play a new game, you are great! These are your Beagles and English Bulldogs. They are known for being friendly dogs, with people and other pets alike. The I type coach is the motivator. These coaches are people oriented, they want to be liked, and are greatly concerned about the morale of all those around.

The Third Type of Dog: The Stable or Steady Dog (S) – Everything is good, I have my ball. This is the Labrador Retriever. These dogs get along in nearly all situations. The are both task oriented and people oriented. All people can be S dogs at one time or another depending on the circumstances. When not in a position of power, the S type is the easiest to sustain. Head coaches with S type personality can get along well in different circumstances, but are not always known as great leaders. The Fourth Type of Dog: The Conscientious or Control Dog (C) - When do I get to pull the sled? These are your Huskies and Blue Heelers. Like the D dog, these dogs are very task oriented. If you leave them alone, they will get the job done. They shy away from others who are not task oriented. Coaches with C type personalities are meticulous planners and want all tasks completed without excuse.

Once you figure out what kind of dog you are, you will be able to find out what kind of dogs you are dealing with every day. Next time you are at a faculty meeting you will be able to point out what type of dog your fellow teachers, coaches, and administrators are. When the principal starts talking about the upcoming pep rally you will see all the C dogs visibly, negatively react and all the I dogs light up
with joy, while the S dogs ask if they can wear jeans on that day. D dogs can either take control of the pep rally schedule or join the C dogs trying to figure out how they can get out of it.

As a leader, you must be able to deal with all types. Here is a brief breakdown. Remember dogs and people are interchangeable terms.

If you are a D dog, you will be criticized for not caring enough, or being mean and you already know this. There is no need to change your personality, but to show you can be an influencer and a motivator will be extremely powerful. No matter what anyone says, even the mean dog needs love.

If you are an I dog, you have already figured out that if you can sell your message hard enough, you will be successful. You have also figured out that D dogs and C dogs criticize you for not being consistent and worrying too much about hurting feelings. I dogs must create structure just like anybody else. Showing moments of toughness and focus on a goal go a long way.

If you are an S dog, you will hear the following criticism, “He is a good person and all, but he just doesn’t have what it takes.” They will then say either you do not know how to motivate or you are not determined enough. S dogs are the most loyal kind of dog, but the challenge is finding dogs to be loyal to you. Do not be afraid to put yourself in challenging situations, show a little cockiness, you can stay humble, but these moments of confidence and displays of leadership are very valuable.

Finally if you are a C dog, remember that it is not all about work. Your criticism comes from people who think you are too focused on minutiae and not enough on your players. You have an advantage over many coaches because of your dedication to your craft. You spend more hours watching film, designing practice schedules, and drawing up schemes than most. Now, how do you get all those I dogs and S dogs to follow you? They are people oriented, so when you step out of the office, give them the culture that allows them to be them. Also, a show of emotion from the C dog is very effective.

All dogs are good dogs, they don’t always get along. The successful coach realizes that he is the leader of a group of diverse dogs and the leader gets along with all of them. All types are valuable to your program, give them what they need.

Sources:
History of DiSC® - DiSC Profile , discprofile.com
Communication Applications 1st Edition, Glenco McGraw-Hill
JT Speedy Faith

6A FOOTBALL

1. La Cueva 6-0 3-0
2. Centennial 6-0 2-0
3. Cleveland 5-1 1-0
4. Volcano Vista 5-1 1-0
5. Las Cruces 5-2 3-0
6. Rio Rancho 4-2 1-0
7. Hobbs 3-3 1-1
8. Los Lunas 4-1 3-0
9. West Mesa 3-3 1-2
10. Eldorado 3-3 1-1
11. Farmington 3-3 0-1
12. Albuquerque 4-2 2-1
13. Organ Mountain 3-4 2-1
14. Carlsbad 3-4 1-1
15. Alamogordo 1-6 0-3
16. Piedra Vista 1-5 0-1
17. Sandia 3-3 2-1
18. Cibola 2-4 0-1
19. Atrisco Heritage 1-4 0-3
20. Santa Fe 2-4 0-3
21. Clovis 0-6 0-2

5A FOOTBALL

1. Artesia 5-2 4-0
2. Roswell 4-1 2-1
3. Deming 5-2 2-2
4. Gadsden 5-2 2-2
5. Mayfield 3-4 2-2
6. Lovington 5-2 2-2
7. Goddard 2-5 1-3
8. Los Alamos 4-3 3-0
9. Miyamura 4-3 2-1
10. Highland 3-4 1-2
11. Belen 2-4 2-2
12. Valley 2-4 2-2
13. Capital 2-5 2-2
14. Santa Teresa 1-6 0-4
15. Del Norte 1-6 1-4
16. Rio Grande 0-6 0-4

4A FOOTBALL

1. Bloomfield 5-0 3-0
2. Bernalillo 6-0 3-0
3. St. Pius X 4-2 2-0
4. Manzano 5-1 2-0
5. Portales 4-3 2-1
6. Taos 4-2 2-1
7. Espanola Valley 5-2 2-2
8. Valencia 5-2 2-1
9. Moriarty 3-3 1-2
10. Grants 3-3 2-1
11. Kirtland Central 1-5 0-3
12. Chaparral 2-5 1-2
13. Albuquerque Academy 2-4 0-2
14. Silver 2-5 0-3
15. Aztec 0-6 0-4

3A FOOTBALL

1. St. Michael's 7-0 1-0
2. Robertson 7-0 1-0
3. Dexter 7-0 3-0
4. New Mexico Military 4-2 2-1
5. Socorro 5-1 2-0
6. West Las Vegas 3-3 0-0
7. Pojoaque Valley 4-2 0-1
8. Hatch Valley 4-3 1-2
9. Hope Christian 3-4 1-1
10. Hot Springs 3-2 0-1
11. Ruidoso 1-5 1-1
12. Cobre 2-5 0-3
13. Thoreau 4-2 3-0
14. Santa Fe Indian 1-6 --
15. Tohatchi 3-3 1-1
16. Crownpoint 2-4 1-1
17. Gallup 1-6 1-2
18. Zuni 2-5 1-1
19. Wingate 1-6 1-2
20. Shiprock 0-5 0-2

2A FOOTBALL

1. Texico 6-0 1-0
2. Eunice 5-1 0-0
3. Santa Rosa 3-2 1-0
4. Legacy Academy 6-0 1-0
5. Raton 2-4 0-1
6. Loving 5-2 0-1
7. Tularosa 4-2 1-0
8. McCurdy 4-2 1-0
9. Jal 2-4 0-1
10. Navajo Prep 4-1 1-0
11. Newcomb 4-2 0-1
12. Laguna-Acoma 2-3 0-1
13. Cuba 1-5 1-0
14. Hozho Academy 3-3 0-1
15. Tucumcari 2-4 1-0
16. Estancia 0-5 0-1
17. Capitan 0-5 0-1