Will post today

NMPreps.com's Top 50 Prospects: Class of 2021
Grine | NMPreps Site Manager

The Top 50 Seniors in New Mexico high school basketball. NMPreps has been the number one source in New Mexico since 2010 and will continue to provide the best basketball coverage.

Abdul Khweis, 2021 (Taos High School): A very athletic forward that makes things happen around the rim. Averaged 17 points per game last season.

Andres Martinez, 2021 (McCurdy High School): Averaged 18.5 points and 10 rebounds last season. An athletic wing at 6-foot-4 that can rise above the rim.

Austyn Perea, 2021 (Albuqueruqe High School): The front court this season will utilize more guard and ball movement and will only benefit Perea who had a few double digit games.

Blake Muscato, 2021 (Clovis High School): Returning shooting guard for the Clovis Wildcats will likely be more of a three point threat this season as his production will be counted on more. He'll get more looks and could become more of a known name on the hardwood.

Bryson Wood, 2021 (Farmington High School): The 6-foot-1 wing for the Scorpions will look to guide them this season. Had a few key games and will look to take on a bigger role this season coming season.

Christian Lucero, 2021 (Rio Rancho High School): The Rams backcourt will be solid next season and the wing presence of Lucero will play huge for the Rams. Lucero averaged 10 points per game last season.

Christian Pacheco, 2021 (Deming High School): The Wildcats will look to 6-4 post player Pacheco as they look to get back to the state tournament. Pacheco is part of a sound group returning this season.

Dante Sanchez, 2021 (Logan High School): The Longhorns guard led the way with 22.4 points per game and welcomes back a very good Logan team in 2021.

Derek Chavez, 2021 (Valley High School): Coming off back-to-back state championships the Vikings now look Chavez in 2020/2021 to keep them going. Chavez, a smooth point guard

Devin Domina-Lovato, 2021 (Eldorado High School): Devin now moves into a must-score or must make a play position after they graduate their go-to players last season. Like his brother who went to the next level to play he can score.

Dominic Luna, 2021 (Capital High School): Not many expected the Capital Jaguars to play for the 5A State Championship game but they did after a 28-win season. Luna was instrumental in helping the Jaguars get there, he averaged 12 points, 3 rebounds and 2.5 steals per game.

Elijah Parham, 2021 (Eldorado High School): His role, like Domina-Lovato will improve with the graduation of key players last season. This Eagles team will be led by these senior guards with a frontcourt of talent from 2022.

Elijah Valdivia, 2022 (Albuquerque High School): The Albuquerque Bulldogs will have a new head coach and the talented 5-9 guard will look to help guide the Dogs in year one.

Evan Gonzales, 2021 (Cleveland High School): One player on a continued power in Cleveland that doesn't get the spotlight he should. After a solid start to the season with his first eight games he was putting in some big scoring numbers. He would finish averaging around 10 points per game last season. He could be ready for a breakout season.

Fedonta "JB" White, 2021 (Santa Fe High School): Committed early to the University of New Mexico, White will be one of the most watched prospects in New Mexico. An athletic rim protector, has a smooth shooting touch and will quietly get 20 on any given night.

Gerald Juarez, 2021 (Rio Grande High School): The Ravens have struggled the last five years but Juarez a senior three point shooter will look to bring back some spark to the south valley.

Isaiah Brooks, 2021 (Atrisco Heritage Academy): Brooks will take the lead next season and you are sure to see a bump in his 12 points per game.

Isaiah Lewis, 2021 (Hobbs High School): I like what Lewis is capable of this coming season for the Hobbs Eagles. A player that is always on the move, scores well in transition and can penetrate while getting to the glass. Averaged around 6 points but on Hobbs teams that get up and down, you could have him go for 15 on any given night. One senior I could see get plenty of attention come post season.

Isaiah Mitchell, 2021 (Grady/San Jon School): Another small school player looking to make an impact this coming season. Mitchell will become the focus of this team next season after averaging 12 points and 3 rebounds per game.

Ivan Bernal, 2021 (Alamogordo High School): A stat stuffer and point guard that will have his name blow up this season. Averaged 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game.

Ja'shon Lowery, 2021 (La Cueva High School): Another athletic player in the 2021 class who will see his role and numbers grow in 2021. Lowery averaged 11 points a game last season.

Jared Hicks, 2021 (Goddard High School): Hicks looks to carry the load with Montanez since graduating. Hicks will run the point guard spot, handles the ball well and a fierce defender.

Javial Garcia, 2021 (Cobre High School): A first-team all-district player for the Cobre Indians last season look for Garcia and the Indians to be a deep threat this season. He averaged 10 points per game last season.

Jesus Alvardo-Luna, 2021 (Centennial High School): Averaged just under 10 points per game but the 6-foot-3 wing, Alvardo-Luna's production will only rise in 2021 as his role takes a bigger step.

Jordan Duda, 2021 (Espanola Valley High School): Duda will guide a very talented 2022 class returning for the Sundevils this season. Duda has some range to his game and can let it fly. Nice form and will be a double-digit guy all season.

Josiah Navarro, 2021 (Los Lunas High School): The Tigers lose the inside presence from last season (Santana and Kiehne) and his 12.6 points per game will likely need to be around 15, but Navarro can score with the best of them. Had a very solid start to the season and was looking like a 4A player of the year candidate.

Junior Hodnett, 2021 (Rio Rancho High School): A guard with some hops. He will be part of a solid duo in the backcourt for the Rams in 2021. Hodnett averaged 10 points per game last season.

Lamar Rogers, 2021 (Albuquerque High School): Rogers will be a go-to player for the Dogs this season as an inside presence on both ends of the floor. Wide span and ability to get up and down.

Nathan Hasberry, 2021 (Cleveland High School): A top talent to keep an eye on for the 2020/2021 season. Hasberry averaged 14 points per game last season for a Final Four team.

Nathan Salcido, 2021 (Hot Springs High School): Another prospect that played well for the Tigers title team in 2019 and looking to be a huge threat this coming season. An all-district player that averaged 11 points and 4 rebounds last season.

Nick Trujillo, 2021 (Grants High School): Shooting guard with some size to him. Trujillo can go off for 15 on any given night. Can create his own look and did well helping guide the Pirates back to the state tournament.

Noah Cunningham, 2021 (Volcano Vista High School): Maybe one of the better of the less talked about players for the coming 2021 season. Had a 26 point game in the APS metro Championships,

Sam Henderson, 2021 (Sandia Prep School): The 6-foot-6 shooting guard is geared to have a special season in 2021. The Sundevils are going to be a favorite and Henderson is a top 25 player from the 2021 class.

Tate Sorgen, 2021 (Melrose High School): One of the best in 1A basketball last season and looking to make a repeat in 2021. Sorgen averaged 16 points an 10 rebounds per game last season as a junior.

Taymon Burrola, 2021 (Roswell High School): On the scene for a couple years now, Burrola is coming off a 16 point per game season for the Coyotes.

Tre Watson III, 2021 (Cleveland High School): One of the top two-sport athletes in New Mexico who has several big offers in football but could garner some in hoops too. Averaged 17 points per game.

Tucker Smothermon, 2021 (Artesia High School): A 6-foot-4 wing that can knock it down from the outside. No official numbers but around 15 per game is about right in games we've seen. Has transferred to Lubbock, Texas.

Verrels Lukman, 2021 (Hot Springs High School): Instrumental to the state championship in 2018, Lukman will be the top guard to watch in 3A basketball this coming season. Averaged 15, 4 rebounds and 3 assists per contest.

Wyatt Wright, 2021 (Logan High School): The Longhorns could be a favorite in 1A basketball with a pair of players topping the list this preseason. Wright is a double-double type of player this coming season. The all-district player averaged 10 points and 8 rebounds last season.

Note: NMPreps.com will continue to add players. Feel free to email/text in your players to grinejosh@yahoo.com or 505-414-4313

2022 Class: Top New Mexico High School Basketball Players
Grine | NMPreps Site Manager

NMPreps.com's list of the top New Mexico high school players for the 2021 season. #nmpreps

Adrian Ayon, 2022 (Santa Teresa High School): The Desert Warriors made a late season push into the post season in 2020. Ayon, now carries the torch with the graduation to a majority of the Warriors scoring.

Aljon Pinili, 2022 (Hot Springs High School) super quick guard who has played behind Senior Guard Verrels Lukman. Quick hands and can pull from deep.

Anthony Sanchez, 2022 (Bosque School): Sanchez played a big role in the Bobcats championship season averaging 13 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assist per game.

Brady Arrenius, 2022 (Cibola High School): Part of young roster that has a chance to be a top-10 team next season. He averaged 10 points per game last season, as the 6-6 forward has a chance to lead next season.

Carlos Quintana, 2022 (Santa Fe High School): The Demons are going through a transition again this off-season with the loss of another go-to player. Well, the strength could be outside the perimeter as Quintana is one of the top shooters.

Colby Wade, 2022 (Atrisco Heritage Academy): Wade seen action as a sophomore last season and will see his role improve as the 6-4 center will look to get more touches and minutes for the Jaguars this season.

Damian Aragon, 2022 (Goddard High School): The Rockets will be a riser this season and having a big that can handle the ball will only help in what they will do this season. Aragon will play at the three or four spot and a cager inside for the tough buckets.

Derek Sullivan, 2022 (Carlsbad High School): The Cavemen will have a new head coach this season but one that is very familiar with the program. Sullivan played some key minutes last season for the 14-14 Cavemen. Look for him to only improve over the next two seasons.

Devin Flores, 2022 (St. MIchael's School): A first team all-state player in 3A basketball Flores will look to guide the Horsemen in 2021.

Elefio Benavidez, 2022 (Santa Fe High School): Between Benavidez and Quintana the pair could break some three point records the next two years for the Demons. Team will look different but could be just as scary.

Isaiah Carr, 2022 (Las Cruces High School): The 6-foot-10 forward joins a stacked Bulldawgs program coming off a state championship. Carr also becomes another D-1 prospect on the Dawgs roster from the 2022 class.

Kaden Miller, 2022 (Hope Christian School): The Huskies lost some big pieces from last season but Miller and several others are ready to keep this basketball power moving forward.

Kaden Valdez, 2022 (Volcano Vista High School): The Hawks will lose key players from last season however, Valdez who played well last season will see his production improve. A 5-10 guard that should only get better.

Kevin Griner, 2022 (Valley High School): The Vikings are back-to-back champs and they have plenty of holes to fill on the roster. Griner had some post season experience and looks to team up with Derick Chavez.

Ja'Kwon Hill, 2022 (Volcano Vista High School): Hill and the Hawks could be ready for a return to the final nights of the season. Hill, a 6-foot guard has plenty of positive hype heading into the season.

Jalen Goar, 2022 (Hobbs High School): One of the top three-point shooters in New Mexico will be a three year starter for Hobbs. Goar averaged 15 points and 3 assists per game last season. Hobbs went 18-10 overall last season.

Jalen Greene, 2022 (Mayfield High School): The Trojans will be on to another head coach and Greene should be part of that building process. Averaged just shy of 10 points per game last season.

Jeremiah Morris, 2022 (Rio Rancho High School): A rising player that should his numbers and production only improve this season. He played behind some talented players and in a fast tempo system like Rio Rancho he'll be more in the mix this season. He will be a name to know by the end of the 2021 season.

Jeremiah Ortiz, 2022 (Cibola High School): Played a huge role for the Cougars last season as a sophomore. Averaged 6 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists per game. You will only see his numbers improve this coming season.

Joaquin Ortega, 2022 (Gallup High School): Ortega, a three year starter to this point (started as an 8th grader), could become one of the most decorated by the time he graduates. He has a 2nd team all district (8th grade) and a two-time first team all-district. Averaged 15.1 points per game last season and won defensive player of the year on his team with nearly 5 steals per game.

Joren Mirabal, 2022 (Magdalena High School): The six-foot guard played well for the state runner up Magdalena Steers. Mirbal averaged 17.6 points per game.

Jose Murrillo, 2022 (Highland High School): One, if not thee, top post player entering the 2020/2021 season. Murrillo averaged 14 points and 12 rebounds per contest. The Hornets played for the 4A state championship in March and looking to build off their 21-win season.

Mateo Hernandez, 2022 (Valley High School): The Valley Vikings will have a new head coach for the first time in over 20 years. The new coach will have some players to help carry them forward and Hernandez could be a very fine player the next two years.

Matthew Gonzales, 2022 (Robertson High School): A newcomer on the scene last season Gonzales had a stellar sophomore season and could be one of the top players in 3A come the 2020/2021 season.

Matthew Quartieri, 2022 (Raton High School): Quickly becoming one of the top overall athletes to know in New Mexico high school athletics. The 6-foot-3 star on the football field and basketball court.

Noah Reese, 2022 (Goddard High School): Reese had solid production last season for the Rockets. He averaged 14 points, 8 rebounds and 3 steals per game.

Santiago Rivas, 2022 (Escalante High School): Small school player that played well as a sophomore for the Lobos. Averaged 18 points per game.

Scott Mullin, 2022 (Alamogordo High School): A first team All-District player that can let it fly. The 6-3 wing, averaged around 12 points per game for the Tigers last season.

Sean Johnson, 2022 (Sandia High School): The 6-foot-6 wing is one of the top players in the classification and was getting set up for a breakout season. Averaged 16 points as a sophomore the 8-18 Sandia Matadors.

William 'Duece' Benjamin, 2022 (Las Cruces High School): Super smooth guard that can penetrate, knock down jay's, but also is a sound floor general. He helped guide a talented Bulldawgs team to the 2020 5A state championship.

Tainui Talaroa, 2022 (Mayfield High School): Part of the 2022 duo returning for the Mayfield Trojans. Talaroa, averaged 7 points and 3 rebounds for the Trojans during the 2020 season.

Note: NMPreps.com will continue to add players. Feel free to email/text in your players to grinejosh@yahoo.com or 505-414-4313

Most Likely to Upset in 6A - Week 3

TOP 10 GAMES TO WATCH IN NEW MEXICO HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

1. Cleveland (1-0) at Centennial (1-0): This could be a potential claim as the best in New Mexico for the Spring 2021 season. Centennial is the 5th ranked team in New Mexico but a win could help their claim to that title. Cleveland opened the season with a smashing win over then second ranked Clovis. The Storm looking to keep the title as top football team in 6A and New Mexico.

2. Clovis (1-1) at Rio Rancho (1-0): Clovis' loss last week hurt the intrigue to this game. However, Rio Rancho (No. 2 in 6A) is looking for their seat at the table as we could have some musical chairs behind Cleveland. Rio Rancho opened against Santa Fe last week and won with ease. Can they continue their winning ways against the Wildcats No. 5)?

3. Lovington (2-0) at Goddard (1-0): This game should have all of the hype this week with both looking their best. Lovington (No. 3 NMPreps 4A Rankings) will look to take another upset over a bigger class in Goddard (No. 2 NMPreps 5A Rankings). Goddard looked impressive last week winning 50-22 over Artesia. Lovington has the upset win over Hobbs last week, 28-25.

4. Volcano Vista (0-0) at Eldorado (0-0): It would be difficult to leave a top 10 6A game off the list. The Hawks of VV are going through a transition as they graduated plenty of talent over the last two years. They do have a group of 2021 and 2022 prospects that could have breakout games this weekend. Simon Gray and Tyler Bush from 2021 class and receiver Kaden Valdez (2022) is another would could have his name grow as a two-sport athlete. Eldorado features their roster full of top players as well - Nick Petty (QB/2021), Elijah Goree (RB/2021) and Elias Franco (ATH-DB/2022).

5. La Cueva (0-0) at Los Lunas (0-0): If this game took place during a regular non-pandemic season we would be very hyped to watch this contest. Los Lunas (No. 5 in 5A) has top talent Tyler Kuehne (UCLA commit) while La Cueva features Ja'Shon Lowery (UNM) and Brad Thomas among other top talents in the state.

6. Bloomfield (1-1) at Farmington (2-0): Battle of the 4's in this game. Bloomfield ranked 4th in 4A, Farmington ranked 4th in 5A. Both are hot right now, Bloomfield with their win over Piedra Vista might have them a little hotter on the meter this week. Bloomfield likes things low on the scoring end, while Farmington can put points up in a hurry.

7. Santa Rosa (1-0) at Texico (2-0): Another 2A football game making the list with No. 3 in 2A Texico taking on No. 3 Santa Rosa. Santa Rosa with a big time win to open their season last week, 40-0 over Estancia. Texico at 2-0 also with an impressive showing last week with a win over 3A's NMMI, 46-7.

8. Cibola (0-0) at Sandia (0-0): The highlight and reason to get out and watch this contest is in the arm of Top 2023 Quarterback Aiden Chavez. The young man has his stock through the roof and can't wait to catch him on the field this season. Sandia, returned to the playoffs last season and although they are under the radar and Washington State commit Sam Carrell won't play they could be a dark horse to win this game, as an underdog.

9. Jal (1-1) vs Hagerman (1-1): Both enter this contest ranked 4th (Hagerman) and 5th (Jal) after splitting their opening games. Both losses come at the hands of the top ranked Eunice Cardinals. This one should be one of the best to watch in 2A football.

10. Socorro (2-0) vs Hatch Valley (1-0): 3A game on the list this week as the top ranked Socorro Warriors (No. 1 NMPreps 3A Rankings) will host district opponent Hatch Valley (No. 6). Hatch Valley will look to contain this Socorro offense that has gone for 80 points in their opening games.

11. Alamogordo (2-0) at Silver (0-0): The only reason this Saturday game is so low on the list is the fact that Silver (No. 9 in 4A) has yet to hit the field this season. Alamogordo (No. 6 in 5A) at 2-0 is climbing the rankings and creates a game that brings intrigue. Top players Walker Wenzel (Silver/QB) and Alamogordo's Sean Hays provides a nice headline.

12. Roswell (1-0) at Artesia (0-2): Should this one be higher? Likely. However, the Coyotes are now the top dog in 5A football and enter as the two-time defending 5A state champs and a quality win over Carlsbad during week one. Artesia at 0-2 is slumping this season and the 28-point loss last week to Goddard didn't look great. However, I will say that they have played two really good opponents and playing Roswell just adds to the strength.

Agree or disagree? What games did we miss?

What did you learn from Week 2?

Most Likely to Upset in 4A Football - Week 3

Today UNM interviewed Richard Pitino, current HC at Minnesota and son of all-time great cheater Rick Pitino. Hearing that Richard is easily the front runner with some outlets already saying he will be the named the next HC. Tim Miles is said be scheduled for an interview tomorrow.

Most Intriguing Score From Friday Night?

FRIDAY
Alamogordo 37, Ruidoso 12 - F
Bloomfield 14, Piedra Vista 0 - F
Capitan 34, Mesilla Valley 6 - F
Centennial 49, Onate 17 - F
Clovis Chrisitan 44, Dora 6 - F
Elida 56, Floyd 6 - F
Eunice 34, Jal 21 - F
Farmington 50, Miyamura 18 - F
Fort Sumner 50, Logan 0 - F
Grants 13, St. Pius X 2 - F
Hagerman 50, Loving 0 - F
Lovington 28, Hobbs 25 - F
Melrose 58, Menaul 0 - F
Mescalero Apache 44, Cloudcroft 14 - F
Portales 34, Dexter 6 - F
Ramah 67, Reserve 12 - F
Socorro 40, Las Cruces-JV 0 - F


SATURDAY
Hope 49 Hot Springs 14
Hatch 13 Tularosa 8
Tatum 34 Magdalena 28
Bernalillo 50 Gallup 0
Deming 50 Pojoaque 0
Cleveland 45 Clovis 14
Rio Rancho 57 Santa Fe 6
Goddard 50 Artesia 22
Roswell 24 Carlsbad 14
Taos 21 Raton 14
Capital 55 Los Alamos 7
Texico 46 NMMI 7
Moriarty 50 Espanola 0
Academy 42 Tucumcari 7
Cuba 20 Thoreau 6
Santa Rosa 40 Estancia 0
Crownpoint 20 Newcomb 12
Animas 40 Carizozo 26
Tohatchi 22 Shiprock 18
Mountainair 28 Gateway 18
Crownpoint 20 Newcomb 12
Tatum 34 Magdalena 28
Kirtland Central 25 Aztec 6

What do you have?

New Mexico High School Football Saturday Preview, Picks, & Predictions

This is week two of the New Mexico high school football Spring season.

Schedule - March 13

Albuquerque Academy (0-1) at Tucumcari (0-1)
Animas (0-1) at Carrizozo (0-0), 1pm
Aztec (0-1) at Kirtland Central (0-0), 6pm
Cleveland (0-0) vs Clovis (1-0), 3pm
Crownpoint (0-1) at Newcomb (0-0), 1pm
Cuba (1-0) at Thoreau (0-1), 1pm
Espanola Valley (0-0) at Moriarty (0-1), 1pm
Estancia (1-0) at Santa Rosa (0-0), 1pm
Gallup (0-0) at Bernalillo (0-0), 1pm
Goddard (0-0) at Artesia (0-1), 1pm
Hope Christian (1-0) at Hot Springs (0-1), 1pm
Las Cruces (0-0) vs Mayfield (0-0)
Los Alamos (0-0) at Capital (0-0)
NMMI (0-1) at Texico (1-0)
Raton (0-0) at Taos (0-0)
Rio Rancho (0-0) at Santa Fe (0-0), 2pm
Roswell (0-0) vs Carlsbad (0-0), 1pm
Tularosa (0-0) at Hatch Valley (0-0), 1pm

The New Mexico high school football season will enter week two of the Spring season. The good news to this point is, I really like the break-up of Friday and Saturday games. Yes, that's a personal - about me - statement but it allows for more football coverage and ability to see more games. The big one today is No. 1 vs No. 2 - you know who that is but also we get a rivalry game of Mayfield and Las Cruces today.

Saturday Lines: Ranked Squads and Marquee Games

Cleveland vs Clovis, Cleveland -8.5
Roswell vs Carlsbad, Roswell -3.5
Las Cruces vs Mayfield, Las Cruces -9
Tularosa vs Hatch Valley, Tularosa -1
Goddard vs Artesia, Goddard -2.5

We are being generous with our new Saturday lines, who is going to bite? Cleveland is impressive on both sides of the ball but can they get two scores ahead of the Wildcats? Clovis needs better QB play because 14-points against Hobbs won't cut it against Cleveland. I will say that could have just been opening day, get the engine going, sluggish start - that Cleveland will need to avoid.

Upset Watch: Who is Next?

Taos: When I went to submit my pick 'em, I wanted to go Taos. Are the Tigers back after taking a rebuild season after winning it all in 2018? I just couldn't take the bait though as Raton has so many key contributors returning this season and I could see a state title in the making, maybe not this year but soon. If we are treating this like a weather report, I see clear skies but remember it's New Mexico, that wind can get going at any moment, then snow.

Mayfield: Before the "I wouldn't call it an upset" guy hits send. Las Cruces has been in charge of this rivalry recently and Las Cruces is ranked 4th in the state, also they are 9-point favorites. So unless you are taking Mayfield without question and big money to back it up, this would be the upset of the night. I believe Mayfield is returning to be Mayfield and could keep things very interesting.

Don't Sleep On Them

Aztec vs Kirtland Central: This Northwest contest gives some reason to turn the channel here. The Aztec Tigers still have a QB of interest from the 2023 class and Kirtland Central may be rebuilding?

Albuquerque Academy at Tucucmari: The Chargers of AA played well against the defending champ Hope Huskies last week. They are still young and that makes them an intriguing squad to follow the next few years.

Estancia at Santa Rosa: This game should have more pub than we've given it. I like that the pair will play each other and provides both with a solid game. Will someone pass?

We're Going Streaking

Hatch Valley looking to snap 9-game skid. I've picked the Bears to win but the lines shifted to Tularosa today. Hmmm... dark horse game of the day!

Gallup losing streak is at 8-games. They take on Bernalillo this week after falling to Kirtland Central, 42-0 on Monday.

Mr. Football Five

Luke Padilla, Capital
Jeff Davison, Cleveland
Nate Stone, Goddard
Marcos Lopez, Las Cruces
Zach Vigil, Rio Rancho

The ballot is wide open this Spring. Five players ranked in the Top-35 will play their first game of the season. Will any take the lead? Padilla could and might go for over 200-yards as he has the most favorable opponent, Capital hosting Los Alamos. However, will Davison show out against Clovis? Will Lopez continue the win streak for the Dawgs? These are the five on the radar and with a short season, it's a make or break each week.

RECAPS

Alamogordo 37, Ruidoso 12: The Alamogordo Tigers jumped out early 24-0 before the Ruidoso Warriors would get on the board - a Bracxton Hall (RHS) touchdown run. The Tigers RB Sean Hays would get into the endzone two times on Friday night, quarterback Anthony Mellor threw a 37-yard TD to Emilio Maynez and then followed it up with a 62-yard TD pass to Branden Lueck. After another Hall TD for Ruidoso, it would be Michael Audette (AHS) to get the final TD of the night, Alamogordo 37-12. Alamogordo moves to 2-0 on the sesason, Ruidoso drops to 0-2.

Bloomfield 14, Piedra Vista 0: The Bloomfield Bobcats continue to surprise although we said we shouldn't be surprised by Bob Allcorn coached team. The Bobcats led by Jeremy Burnham, who had a strip sack then scored a TD move to 1-1 on the season. Piedra Vista drops to 1-1.

Centennial 49, Onate 17: After Onate shocked us with a FG in the first quarter it would be Karsten Rueckner hitting David Gomez on a 20-yard TD. Isaac Gutierrez scored quickly from 31-yards out for Centennial and they went up 14-3 in the first quarter. Onate's QB Aiden Roser would guide the Knights down the field in the second before a Zack Taraungo touchdown from 10-yards out. Centennial's Karsten Rueckner would get into the endzone again and it was all Hawks the rest of the way. Centennial now 1-0, Onate 0-1.

Grants 13, St. Pius X 2: The pair squared off in Bernalillo on Friday night in a quiet night. After a first quarter, punt return by Bryan Hernandez, the rest of the night was trading the ball back and forth without a lot of movement. Terrel Hocker would get into the endzone for another score in fourth quarter from 1-yard out. The Pirates move to 1-0 on the season and Pius drops to 0-1.

Lovington 28, Hobbs 25: The upset of the night, well one of them, took place as the Lovington Wildcats used an 80-yard opening drive to get on the scoreboard first. Hobbs QB Colton Graham would rush for a TD to tie things in the second quarter and gave us a quiet first half, that also featured a rain delay. Lovington jumped out again to start the second, Hobbs would counter on a 96-yard kick return, but the Wildcats would answer a minute later on an 85-kick return. It would be a 19-yard TD pass by Lovington that would put them up in the fourth and would hold on for the win, 28-25. Lovington improves to 2-0 while Hobbs drops to 0-2.

Wrong, Wrong, Wrong...What Did We Learn

1. Little Brother can upset Big Brother. We claimed that it would be a quiet night across the state but then we have a Wildcats team that is FO-REAL. Lovington beat Hobbs, 28-25 on the road. Didn't think it could happen but it did. We should have a big mix up with the rankings.

2. 5A Should Be Okay Against a Rebuilding 4A. Okay, Bloomfield is not rebuilding we got that covered. Also, can we say that Bob Allcorn is one of the better defensive coaches in the state? His program has proven to do well holding explosive offensive units to less than their average. 14-0 win with a couple redzone stops over Piedra Vista on Friday night has us think Bloomfield. Them Grants, and Lovington have 4A looking DEEP (or top heavy, for now).

3. We Did Take A Second Look: At one point Onate was only down 14-10 in the second quarter to Centennial. Is that big news? Well, Onate has been bad, but the era now under Steve Castille could have something brewing in the years to come. Centennial would end up rolling in this one 49-17 but Onate at least has some fight as they build a foundation under a proven coach now.

SCORES

FRIDAY
Alamogordo 37, Ruidoso 12 - F
Bloomfield 14, Piedra Vista 0 - F
Capitan 34, Mesilla Valley 6 - F
Centennial 49 Onate 17 - F
Clovis Chrisitan 44, Dora 6 - F
Elida 56, Floyd 6 - F
Eunice 34, Jal 21 - F
Farmington 50, Miyamura 18 - F
Fort Sumner 50, Logan 0 - F
Grants 13, St. Pius X 2 - F
Hagerman 50, Loving 0 - F
Lovington 28, Hobbs 25 - F
Melrose 58, Menaul 0 - F
Mescalero Apache 44, Cloudcroft 14 - F
Ramah 67, Reserve 12 - F
Socorro 40, Las Cruces-JV 0 - F

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3A Football: Preview, Picks, & Predictions

NMPreps.com's guide to every game taking place this week in New Mexico high school football. We provide our picks, preview, and predictions. Week 2 Schedule | Week 2 Lines | Week 2 Rankings

Friday, March 12th

Dexter (1-0) at No. 15 Portales (1-0): The Dexter Demons are just two years removed from winning the state championship in 3A football. Last season they still went a solid 8-3 but they are looking to a few key contributors to help them return to the top. Marco and Ricardo show in 2021 is the headline heading into this contest. Marco Munoz (2021/QB) took most of the snaps at quarterback tossing for 450 while rushing for another 450. Ricardo Contreras rushed for 450 in a backfield that shared the ball with a handful of backs. Dexter came out strong last week getting two touchdowns in the first quarter and would end up beating NMMI, 17-2. It was Munoz getting into the endzone twice last week for the Demons, one rushing and one passing. The test grows this week as they visit 4A defending state champion Portales Rams (No. 15 NMPreps Top-25) who are coming off a week one win over Moriarty, 21-0. Eyes will be on one of the top quarterbacks in 4A, Baylor Diaz, but if the Rams are looking to repeat they will need some options outside of Diaz. The Rams have graduated some serious talent over the last few years and this could be a transition year but Diaz is good enough to keep them near the top. He rushed for over 100-yards last week and tossed for 56. Although it's been all Portales in the last three meetings, the smaller school Dexter did have a major upset over Portales in 2016 when the Rams were ranked in the Top-25. Prediction: Portales 18, Dexter 15. Grine's Pick: Portales. Line: Portales -8.5

No. 21 Socorro (1-0) vs Las Cruces-Junior Varsity: The top ranked team in 3A football and favorite to win it all (if we had a playoff) Socorro Warriors found a game for this weekend and a quality game against 6A Las Cruces-JV. Socorro is coming off a week one win over Hot Springs, 40-0, and looked as good as expected. The Warriors under interim head coach Al Ocampo used a handful of athletes to get into the endzone last week form Marcus Armijo, Davon Hardin, Mike McDaniel, Nate Fresquez. QB Fresquez threw for a TD, rushed for a pair in the win and looking to build off the week one win. Prediction: Socorro 21, LCHS-JV 12. Grine's Pick: Socorro.

6A & 5A SCHEDULE - WEEK TWO

FRIDAY
Alamogordo (1-0) at Ruidoso (0-1)
Centennial (0-0) vs Onate (0-0)
Farmington (1-0) at Miaymura (0-1)
Lovington (1-0) at Hobbs (0-1)
Piedra Vista (1-0) at Bloomfield (0-1)


SATURDAY
Carlsbad (1-0) at Roswell (0-0), 1pm
Clovis (1-0) at Cleveland (0-0), 3pm
Goddard (0-0) at Artesia (0-1), 1pm
Los Alamos (0-0) at Capital (0-0), 1pm
Mayfield (0-0) at Las Cruces (0-0), 3pm
Pojoaque Valley (0-0) at Deming (0-0), 2pm
Rio Rancho (0-0) at Santa Fe (0-0), 2pm

6A and 5A football really kick off this weekend with a majority of schools opening their three game season. The highlight games this weekend include the top-ranked Cleveland Storm (0-0) hosting second ranked Clovis (1-0) in Rio Rancho.

Predictions for Friday

Alamogordo 43, Ruidoso 7
Centennial 48, Onate 12
Farmington 40, Miyamura 2
Hobbs 25, Lovington 18
Piedra Vista 28, Bloomfield 15

Taking a look at Friday night football in New Mexico the game of the night is Hobbs and Lovington. The two southeastern schools will do battle tonight and will have an active and loud crowd, yes, even with the restrictions on attendance. Not much separates the two towns and with Lovington coming off a nice showing last week, they want nothing more than to take down the bigger school to the south. Hobbs, looked very good in a close loss last week to Clovis. I feel the Eagles have plenty to go but they surely are much improved from last season. I'm taking all favorites in these games tonight and I can't see an upset in the group. Do you? Bloomfield a dark horse in that game? They didn't look like they missed a beat against Alamogordo (No. 13) last week in a 16-14 loss.

Young Guns to Watch on Friday

Three dudes that can win the Mr. Football award. Sean Hays (Alamogordo), Caleb Carrillo (Farmington) or Tres Arreola (Lovington). I won't lie, we expected Hays to explode last week for a huge game against Bloomfield but maybe this is the week we see him put his name among the top backs in the state. Carrillo can throw. Carrillo has options. I could see him going for 4-hundy this weekend. If so, then his name is on the ten list as we wake up Sunday morning. Tres is the new guy on the list and radar. He had over 20 tackles last week. 20! Someone call the waterboy for his record.

Upset Alerts on Friday, Na. But Maybe on Saturday

As mentioned in this weeks upset alert we don't see one happening at the 6A or 5A level. It could be an early night for three of the five games. Carlsbad is an upset going into the game with Roswell, in the conventional definition - higher rank/lower rank. Truly this year I may agree it is hard to call one over the other but numbers wise more folks going Roswell proves that Roswell is the favorite so by definition it would be an upset. One I could see. I didn't see Carlsbad winning last week against Artesia but a 35-34 scored proved me wrong. Santa Fe won't upset Rio Rancho but damn they are going to go into this one swinging.

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4A Football: Preview, Picks, & Predictions

NMPreps.com's guide to every game taking place this week in New Mexico high school football. We provide our picks, preview, and predictions. Week 2 Schedule | Week 2 Lines | Week 2 Rankings

Friday, March 12th

No. 13 Alamogordo (1-0) at Ruidoso (0-1): The Ruidoso Warriors coming off a week one loss 54-20 to No. 25 Lovington, now turn around and have to face the 13th ranked Alamogordo Tigers who are coming off a narrow win over Bloomfield. The Warriors entered the Spring season losing top 35 player Grant Oberheu who enrolled early at New Mexico State University. They also had a new quarterback and much of their skilled position players from a 5-7 team in 2019. Bracxton Hall (2022/RB) is a new name on the scene who rushed for over 100 yards in week one. Alamogordo looks to be the heavy favorite entering this contest and most eyes will be on star running back Sean Hays in this game as he builds of 85-yards rushing in the opening game. New quarterback Anthony Mello (2022) also coming off his first game at QB-1 throwing for 88-yards and 1-touchdown. Prediction: Alamogordo 43, Ruidoso 7. Grine's Pick: Alamogordo Line. Alamogordo -39

Dexter (1-0) at No. 15 Portales (1-0): The Dexter Demons are just two years removed from winning the state championship in 3A football. Last season they still went a solid 8-3 but they are looking to a few key contributors to help them return to the top. Marco and Ricardo show in 2021 is the headline heading into this contest. Marco Munoz (2021/QB) took most of the snaps at quarterback tossing for 450 while rushing for another 450. Ricardo Contreras rushed for 450 in a backfield that shared the ball with a handful of backs. Dexter came out strong last week getting two touchdowns in the first quarter and would end up beating NMMI, 17-2. It was Munoz getting into the endzone twice last week for the Demons, one rushing and one passing. The test grows this week as they visit 4A defending state champion Portales Rams (No. 15 NMPreps Top-25) who are coming off a week one win over Moriarty, 21-0. Eyes will be on one of the top quarterbacks in 4A, Baylor Diaz, but if the Rams are looking to repeat they will need some options outside of Diaz. The Rams have graduated some serious talent over the last few years and this could be a transition year but Diaz is good enough to keep them near the top. He rushed for over 100-yards last week and tossed for 56. Although it's been all Portales in the last three meetings, the smaller school Dexter did have a major upset over Portales in 2016 when the Rams were ranked in the Top-25. Prediction: Portales 18, Dexter 15. Grine's Pick: Portales. Line: Portales -8.5

No. 17 Grants (0-0) at No. 18 St. Pius X (0-0): In Bernalillo. The two district opponents will square off in Bernalillo on Friday evening (7 p.m.). The Pirates took the contest and district championship last season on their way to playing for the 4A semifinals. The Pirates lost All-State running back Isaiah Johnson to graduation but have plenty of depth returning, kudos to the continued development of this once dormant program. The Pirates turn to Class of 2022 top ranked quarterback Brandon Furbee, top 50 players Bryan Hernández (WR-SS/2021) and Terrell Hocker (WR/2021) and this could be one of the better Pirate teams. Add in Mike Trujillo (T-DE/2021) and Cyler Aragon (G-DT/2021) and that's five next level players. The Sartans also bring a handful of prospects of their own and create the must-see game of the night. Marco Ybarra (2022/RB) and Aaron Deller (T-DT/2021) are two of the top prospects in New Mexico and will look to guide the Sartans this season. Ybarra, only had four games last season but rushed for 233-yards and 4 touchdowns as a sophomore. Another to watch is Nic Pascuzzi (2021/WR) who had over 200-yards receiving last season. Prediction: Grants 24, SPX 21. Grine's Pick: Grants. Line: Grants -3.5

No. 25 Lovington (1-0) at No. 9 Hobbs (0-1): The 25th ranked Lovington Wildcats enter the game after an impressive opening weekend win 54-20 over Ruidoso. The test now turns to the bigger brother down the road in Hobbs. The Eagles are coming off a rivalry loss, but sound showing, to the second ranked team in the state in Clovis (14-10). The excitement could come in the air attack with two new quarterbacks looking to build off their first starts. Colton Graham (Hobbs) passed for 114 yards and had 180 total yards. Jared Jeffrey (Lovington) threw for an eye opening 230 yards in the opening game. The big question mark in this game will be trying to evade a Hobbs DL that could create issues for the Wildcats. Prediction: Hobbs 25, Lovington 18. Grine's Pick: Hobbs. Line: Hobbs -10.5

No. 14 Piedra Vista (1-0) at Bloomfield (0-1): The 4A Bloomfield Bobcats are coming off a close loss to 5A Alamogordo (No. 13) last week, 16-14, and turn around to take on another top-25 ranked 5A opponent in Piedra Vista (No. 14 NMPreps Top-25). Marc Armenta (2022) and Diego Snell-Montoya (2022/RB) are the new names for a Bloomfield team that graduated several all-state players. The Piedra Vista Panthers enter the contest as favorites after winning last week 42-0 over Miyamura. The Panthers bring several new faces - Michael Candelaria (2021/RB), Aidan Etsitty (2022/RB) - this season that have the Panthers looking strong out the gate. Prediction: Piedra Vista 28, Bloomfield 15. Grine's Pick: PV. Line: PV -12

FRIDAY
Alamogordo (1-0) at Ruidoso (0-1)
Centennial (0-0) vs Onate (0-0)
Dexter (1-0) at Portales (1-0)
Farmington (1-0) at Miaymura (0-1)
Grants (0-0) at St. Pius X (0-0), at Bernalillo HS
Lovington (1-0) at Hobbs (0-1)
Piedra Vista (1-0) at Bloomfield (0-1)


SATURDAY
Albuquerque Academy (0-1) at Tucumcari (0-1)
Animas (0-1) at Carrizozo (0-0), 1pm
Aztec (0-1) at Kirtland Central (0-0), 6pm
Cleveland (0-0) vs Clovis (1-0), 3pm
Crownpoint (0-1) at Newcomb (0-0), 1pm
Cuba (1-0) at Thoreau (0-1), 1pm
Espanola Valley (0-0) at Moriarty (0-1), 1pm
Estancia (1-0) at Santa Rosa (0-0), 1pm
Gallup (0-0) at Bernalillo (0-0), 1pm
Goddard (0-0) at Artesia (0-1), 1pm
Hope Christian (1-0) at Hot Springs (0-1), 1pm
Las Cruces (0-0) vs Mayfield (0-0)
Los Alamos (0-0) at Capital (0-0)
NMMI (0-1) at Texico (1-0)
Raton (0-0) at Taos (0-0)
Rio Rancho (0-0) at Santa Fe (0-0), 2pm
Roswell (0-0) vs Carlsbad (0-0), 1pm
Silver (0-0) at Deming (0-0), 1pm
Socorro (0-0) at St. Mikes (0-0), 1pm
Tularosa (0-0) at Hatch Valley (0-0), 1pm

*Add any that I may have missed. Thanks!

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This thread, posted here exactly a year ago, is about whether the NMAA would cancel the state basketball tourney or bar fans: https://nmpreps.forums.rivals.com/t...of-the-tourney-or-bar-fans.31425/#post-373417

Interesting to read it now with all that has happened since then. Certainly few of us could even imagine that one year later, we would have nearly 30 million cases and 530,000 deaths in the U.S. It was within a day of this that schools started to close, and many still haven't re-opened.

Here's hoping that the worst is behind us, and for better times ahead.

2A Football: Week Two Preview & Predictions

NMPreps.com's guide to every game taking place this week in New Mexico high school football. We provide our picks, preview, and predictions.

Friday, March 11th

Jal (1-0) at Eunice (1-0): The rivalry is strong between the two towns and schools. If you've visited with either you know they don't care much for the other. This Friday should provide us with a closer contest than recent history has shown with Eunice winning convincingly (winning by 30-40 points). Eunice had to replace some key players from their three-peat and filled the holes in week one. The duo from week one was junior Micah Tippett rushing for 92 yards while quarterback Hayden Dean passing for 218, both in their first starts for the Cardinals. Although Jal looked great in their 55-0 opening win over Loving, Eunice is still Eunice. Eunice -18

Loving (0-1) at Hagerman (0-1): Loving stumbled out the gate after having high hopes with the return of key contributors from the 2019 season. They'll look to redeem themselves after losing 55-0 to Jal. We didn't receive information but we had some high hopes on the return of Nico Gut-omen (2021), Dylan Green (2022) and Federico Lara (2022). Hagerman came out fighting against the top ranked Eunice Cardinals but would fall 38-20 last week. They'll look to rebound this week and get things rolling again. Key player we have our eye on is 6-4 defensive lineman Jose Jaramillo (2021) who is a difference maker for this Bobcats team. Hagerman -41

Mescalero Apache (0-1) at Cloudcroft (0-1): One of these two squads will get their first win of the season and the Cloudcroft Bears are hoping to reach the endzone this week after losing to Tatum 50-0 during week one. Cloudcroft is also looking to end their current losing streak dating back to October 5th, 2018 - a win over Mescalero Apache 40-0. The Bears went 0-7 last season and have the losing streak at 10 games. Mescalero Apache had one win last season, a forfeit win over no other than Cloudcroft. Their last win, against an opponent, dates back to September 22nd, 2018 against a JV squad. So, whatever happens on Friday night should bring some excitement to either football program. Cloudcroft -10

Mesilla Valley Christian (0-1) at Capitan (0-0): Mesilla Valley didn't start the season the way they had hoped, falling 64-20 to Magdalena in their opener. However, the Son Blazers are looking forward to this weeks contest with Capitan. We will keep an eye on senior Case Dunlap (QB/2021) who seemed to take much of the snaps last week. Also, top ranked prospect Donovan Lopez (OL/2021) should have some eyes on the next level prospect. Capitan ended the season well going 3-1 with a playoff win and looking to return to the early 2010 days when they were among the top of the classification. They lost some key players from last season but look to newcomers (as starters) with Lucaiano Gutierrez (2021) and Caleb Kyser (2022) taking on bigger roles this season. Also, look for Gabe Hayes (2022) to continue to build off a strong sophomore season in 2019. Capitan -12.5

Questa (0-1) at Raton (Junior Varsity): The Questa Wildcats played their toughest battle of the year with Estancia last week, a 58-0 loss. The rest of the season they will take on junior varsity squads, starting with Raton this weekend. This contest should allow the Wildcats to play more at their level than the power that they opened up with, unfortunately it could still be a battle. We are glad to see Questa is back to playing football and fielding a team after going 0-2 last season. Their last win? September 8th, 2018 against Raton JV 37-8 on opening night of the 2018 season, but went 0-6 the rest of the way. They are currently on a 9-game losing streak now. Questa -1.5

Grine's Picks - Eunice, Hagerman, Cloudcroft, Capitan, Questa