Who will lead the state in passing yards in Week One?

Who will lead the state in rushing yards in Week One?

Who will lead the state in total tackles in Week One?

Who will lead the state in sacks in Week One?

2024 New Mexico High School Football Preseason Rankings

The NMPreps team is proud to present our annual ranking of all teams participating in 11-man football. With the 2024 and 2025 seasons featuring a total of 89 teams in the newly aligned classifications and districts, we embark on the exciting journey of spotlighting each team in our preseason way-too-early team rankings. Stay tuned as we delve into the diverse landscape of New Mexico high school football, offering insights into the teams that will be shaping the upcoming seasons.

CLASSIFICATION RANKINGS
Link: 6A Football
Link: 5A Football
Link: 4A Football
Link: 3A Football
Link: 2A Football

STATE RANKINGS


Note: We will continue to update this thread as we release team previews.

Mayfield Trojans 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #21

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

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2023 Season Review​

Record: 5-7 overall, 0-3 district
2023 Playoffs: 5A Quarterfinals
Points Scored: 232
Points Given Up: 316
Streak into 2024: 1-game losing streak

2023 Season Recap​

The 2023 season was a rollercoaster for the Mayfield Trojans, starting with back-to-back wins over Manzano (55-0) and Organ Mountain (40-10). However, they stumbled in two tough matchups against city rivals Centennial (42-0) and Las Cruces (44-7). A narrow victory over Belen (22-20) was followed by a loss to Deming (20-7) before the Trojans closed out non-district play with a shutout win over Santa Teresa (53-0), finishing 4-3. District play proved challenging, with losses to Goddard (27-13), Roswell (48-15), and Artesia (43-7). The Trojans secured a 9-seed in the state playoffs, edging out 8-seed Gadsden 13-12 in a hard-fought first-round game. Their season ended in the quarterfinals with a rematch against top-seeded Roswell, falling 50-0.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

The Mayfield Trojans return a strong core of players for the 2024 season, led by quarterback and linebacker Luke Linnan. Entering his second season as the starting quarterback, Linnan threw for 1,291 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 2023 while also leading the team with five rushing touchdowns.

Key returning seniors include RB/DB Justin Madrid, WR/DB Zaiden Salcido, RB/DB Anthony Nevarez, WR/LB Peyton Darden, TE/DE Andreas Garay, and OL/DL Brayan Mendoza. Salcido led all Mayfield returners with nearly 400 receiving yards, while Darden, who notched 3.5 sacks last season, is expected to take on a larger role on offense. Nevarez was the team's leading rusher with nearly 500 rushing yards and three touchdowns, and Garay matched Darden's sack total. Many of these players will be expected to contribute on both sides of the ball, adding to the challenge and excitement of the upcoming season.

Realistic Expectations and Predictions​

The second season under head coach Gary Bradley holds promise as he looks to build on the foundation laid last year with a solid group of returning players. The Trojans' non-district schedule is packed with intrigue, starting with a rivalry clash against Las Cruces on August 23rd. They'll follow that with two home games against West Mesa (8/30) and Organ Mountain (9/6). District play kicks off on September 12th with a road game at Gadsden, followed by another away game at Santa Teresa (9/20). The Trojans will host Deming (9/28) before hitting the road again for back-to-back games against Lovington (10/4) and Goddard (10/18). The regular season closes with two home games against powerhouses Roswell (10/26) and Artesia (11/2).

NMPreps predicts a 4-6 overall record for the Trojans, but with the potential to win up to 6 games if everything falls into place. Coach Bradley's squad will need to bring their A-game, especially in the competitive District 2-5A.

More Previews: New Mexico HS Football 2024 Preseason Rankings (link)

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6A FOOTBALL
1 La Cueva

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Does anyone have results or thoughts on the games this week?

Most likely to win a district game - Cibola in District 1-6A or Albuquerque High in District 2-6A

Who benefits more from the non-success alignment: Rio Grande in 5A or Chaparral in 4A.

Most likely to defeat La Cueva in 6A, Cleveland or Las Cruces

Most likely to beat Bloomfield for the 1-4A DC, Bernalillo, Grants, Taos or Espanola Valley

Espanola Valley Sundevils 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #53

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 8-4 overall, 3-0 district
2024 Classification: 4A (District 1)
Playoffs: Quarterfinals
Points Scored: 390
Points Given Up: 242
Streak into 2024: 1-game losing streak

Season Recap: Historic Achievements for the Sundevils​

The Espanola Valley Sundevils reached unprecedented heights in 2023, clinching only their second district championship in program history and securing their first state playoff win. The season began with challenging losses to Los Alamos (35-0) and Bernalillo (26-18), followed by a narrow victory over Escalante (21-14). After a tough 48-11 defeat to West Las Vegas, the Sundevils found their stride, embarking on a seven-game winning streak. They dominated Gallup (58-0), Santa Fe Indian (59-0), and Kirtland Central (54-30) to conclude their non-district schedule at 4-3 overall.

In district play, the Sundevils continued their winning ways with a 38-25 victory over Taos, and back-to-back 50-0 shutouts against Moriarty and Pojoaque Valley, securing the district championship with a 3-0 record.

The state playoffs saw the Sundevils earn a 7-seed, where they triumphed over 10-seed St. Pius X, 31-7. However, their season ended in the quarterfinals with a loss to eventual state champion and 2-seed Lovington, 52-0. Despite the tough finish, the Sundevils’ 2023 campaign was marked by historic milestones and a strong foundation for future success.

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2024 NMPreps 3A New Mexico High School Football Rankings and Season Preview​

The 3A division of New Mexico high school football is set for an exciting season with a mix of returning powerhouses and rising teams. The new alignment for the 2024 and 2025 seasons brings Gallup, Shiprock, and Pojoaque Valley down from 4A, while districts are now combined into three: District 1-3A, District 2-3A, and District 3-3A. Notably, St. Michael's, Cobre, and Dexter, initially set to move down due to enrollment, successfully petitioned to stay in 3A. Here’s a look at the top twenty teams and players to watch this season, along with the new alignment and predictions.

Top 10 Teams in 3A​

1. St. Michael's Horsemen (2023: 11-2)

• 2024 Outlook: The Horsemen, led by quarterback Reed Bass and running back Soren Annon, are poised for another standout season. With a solid offensive and defensive lineup, including top prospect Ryan Hunt, they are favorites to make a deep playoff run.

2. Robertson Cardinals (2023: 10-3)

• 2024 Outlook: Dual-threat quarterback Jesse James Gonzales leads a talented roster aiming for the state championship. With key players like Paul Duran and Nathaniel Gonzales returning, the Cardinals are strong contenders.

3. West Las Vegas Dons (2023: 7-4)

• 2024 Outlook: Senior quarterback CJ Perea and a solid core of returners position the Dons as a strong team in 2024. They have the potential to exceed expectations and make a significant playoff run.

4. New Mexico Military Institute (2023: 9-3)

• 2024 Outlook: The Colts, led by quarterback Cole Seidenberger and running back Cohen Tomasits, are poised for another successful season. Their depth and experience make them formidable contenders for the district title and state playoffs.

5. Socorro Warriors (2023: 9-3)

• 2024 Outlook: Dual-threat quarterback Isaiah Ocampo leads a deep and experienced roster. The Warriors are expected to be a top-four seed in the state playoffs, with a strong chance of contending for the championship.

6. Hope Christian Huskies (2023: 4-7)

• 2024 Outlook: With quarterback RJ Montoya returning, the Huskies aim to improve on last season's record. Their challenging schedule will test their resilience, but they have the potential to sneak into the playoffs.

7. Cobre Indians (2023: 8-3)

• 2024 Outlook: Despite losing key players, the Indians have a mix of returning talent and promising newcomers. They face a rebuilding season but have the potential to make a playoff run.

8. Dexter Demons (2023: 9-3)

• 2024 Outlook: Dexter, with a standout quarterback, is a sleeper team poised to make a significant impact this season. Their potential to reach the state championship game makes them a team to watch.

9. Pojoaque Valley Elks (2023: 3-7)

• 2024 Outlook: Moving down from 4A, the Elks have a standout running back and are potential movers and shakers in the 3A division. Their performance this season will be closely watched.

10. Ruidoso Warriors (2023: 1-9)

• 2024 Outlook: Coming off a tough season, the Warriors aim to rebuild and improve. With a new alignment, they have the opportunity to rise in the rankings.

BACK TEN​

11. Hatch Valley Bears

• Offense/Defense Outlook: The Bears return key players like Omar Gonzalez and Orrion Russell. Their defense needs improvement to reduce the points allowed. Realistic expectations suggest a 5-5 season, with potential to secure a playoff spot based on district performance.

12. Gallup Bengals

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Struggled last season but return most of their roster. Key players include Frank Martinez and Samuel Hernandez. Realistic expectations suggest a 4-4 season, marking significant improvement and progress.

13. Thoreau Hawks

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Significant graduations will challenge the Hawks, but returning players like Saige Westmoreland and Jordan Calladitto show promise. Realistic expectations predict a 5-5 season.

14. Crownpoint Eagles

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Return several key underclassmen like McKenzie Tsosie and Lavontae Robinson. Realistic expectations suggest a 4-6 or 5-5 season, with potential to be competitive in District 1-3A.

15. Tohatchi Cougars

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Return a solid roster with standout Adriano Begay. Realistic expectations range from 5 to 8 wins, with a 6-4 season being likely.

16. Hot Springs Tigers

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Need a new head coach but have promising returning players like Tristan Polanco. Realistic expectations suggest a 2-5 win season, contingent on new leadership.

17. Santa Fe Indian Braves

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Face significant uncertainty with key departures and a need for a new head coach. Realistic expectations suggest a 0-10 or 1-9 season.

18. Wingate Bears

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Return several key players like LaDanion Begay and Eric Woodman. Realistic expectations suggest a 3-7 season, with potential to finish the season at .500.

19. Zuni Thunderbirds

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Return most of their roster but need to replace key players like Kole Eriacho. Realistic expectations suggest a 3-7 season, with potential for up to five wins based on a favorable schedule.

20. Shiprock Chieftains

• Offense/Defense Outlook: Return key players like Elijah Shorthair and Antonio James, with new head coach Jeremy Wooten bringing renewed optimism. Realistic expectations suggest a 1-9 season.

Predictions and Analysis​

Crystal Ball Preseason Predictions: 2024​

As the 2024 high school football season approaches, the excitement builds around the potential playoff contenders in the 3A division. Here's a look at the 12 teams predicted to secure playoff spots, including the top seeds and those on the bubble.

• Final Four: St. Michael's, Robertson, Dexter, Socorro
• Dark Horse: West Las Vegas, NMMI - QBs to Watch
• Sleeper In The Title Game: Dexter with a stud QB
• Potential Movers and Shakers: Hatch Valley, Pojoaque Valley

Top Four Seeds​

1. Robertson (Auto Bid) - A perennial powerhouse, Robertson is expected to clinch an automatic bid and secure a top-four seed but I don't think it's the first time Robertson and preseason No. 1 St. Mikes meets.

2. St. Michael's (At-Large) - Another top-tier team, St. Michael's is projected to earn an at-large bid and a top-four seed.

3. Socorro (Auto Bid) - Socorro is set to grab an automatic bid, placing them in the top four seeds. Their balanced attack and solid defense make them a tough opponent.

4. Dexter (At-Large) - Dexter rounds out the top four seeds with an at-large bid. Their strong showing in recent seasons suggests they have the talent and coaching to make a deep playoff run.

Mid-Seed Contenders​

5. West Las Vegas (At-Large) - Projected as the fifth seed, West Las Vegas is expected to earn an at-large bid.

6. NMMI (At-Large) - The New Mexico Military Institute is predicted to secure the sixth seed with an at-large bid.

7. Cobre (At-Large) - As the seventh seed, Cobre is anticipated to grab an at-large bid. Is it a total rebound or do they have some pieces?

Lower Seed Contenders​

8. Thoreau (Auto Bid) - Thoreau is expected to earn an automatic bid and the eighth seed. 1-3A is a one bid league and if they go 6-0 in district play they could potentially even be a 5-seed.

9. Hatch Valley (At-Large) - Predicted to be the ninth seed, Hatch Valley is likely to secure an at-large bid.

10. Hope Christian (At-Large) - Hope Christian is set to be the tenth seed with an at-large bid. They haven't shown how solid they can be.

11. Pojoaque Valley (At-Large) - The eleventh seed is expected to be Pojoaque Valley, earning an at-large bid. Sleeper if they face, say, a Thoreau in the opening round.

Bubble Teams​

12/13. Ruidoso/Gallup (At-Large) - The final playoff spot is a toss-up between Ruidoso and Gallup, with either team likely securing an at-large bid. Gallup's potential to be the runner-up in District 1-3A gives them an edge, but both teams need to prove themselves throughout the season to claim the twelfth seed.

Bubble Watch:

14. Hot Springs - Hot Springs remains on the bubble, with the potential to break into the playoffs if they can string together some key wins during the season.

Cellar Teams:

• Crownpoint, Tohatchi, Wingate, Zuni, Shiprock: Teams on the outside looking in unless they can beat out Gallup or Thoreau.

No Chance:

• Santa Fe Indian: As an independent they can't qualify for the state playoffs. I wonder if they can petition to be back in a district in 2025?

The 2024 3A football season promises to be competitive and full of surprises. St. Michael's, Robertson, and Dexter are early favorites, but teams like West Las Vegas and NMMI could upset the balance. The new alignment and the movement of teams like Gallup and Shiprock down to 3A add an interesting dynamic to the season.

Stay tuned to NMPreps for ongoing coverage and updates throughout the season.

You can find the full team previews here: 2024 Team Previews

ATC needs 4 games to round out their schedule. Willing to travel or start new 2 year deals. Our gym is very limited in capacity.

Albuquerque Academy - Open

Atrisco Heritage Academy - Open

Cibola High School - Open

Cleveland High School - Stacy Porkorski (Former La Cueva assistant)

Grants High School - Hired Jesi Mandragan (Former Grants assistant)

Socorro High School - Open

The best event in New Mexico draft. Draft anything not listed.

Cibola Cougars 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #26

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 0-10 overall, 0-4 district
2023 Playoffs: Missed
Points Scored: 119
Points Given Up: 397
Streak into 2024: 15-game losing streak
2024 Classification: District 1-6A

2023 Season Recap: A Challenging Year of Transition

The 2023 season marked the beginning of a new era under head coach Chris Howe, and while the Cougars didn’t secure a win, they showed resilience against a tough slate of opponents. The season kicked off with a 41-20 loss to 6A Eldorado, followed by a close 15-3 defeat against 5A Valley. The Cougars faced a scorching hot West Mesa team next, falling 46-20, before dropping their home opener to Farmington 39-0. A challenging road game against Piedra Vista resulted in a 41-7 loss.

In their district opener, Cibola fought hard but came up short against Atrisco Heritage, losing 36-25 to a team enjoying one of its best seasons. The Cougars then faced the gauntlet of District 1-6A, suffering losses to Volcano Vista (60-14), Rio Rancho (48-17), and Cleveland (61-7). They closed the season with a non-district matchup against Sandia, narrowly missing a victory in a 10-6 defeat, extending their losing streak to 15 games dating back to the 2022 season.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

There’s reason for optimism as the Cibola Cougars aim to end their losing streak in 2024. One of the top 2026 prospects, linebacker Hayes Baum, returns to anchor the defense. Ranked #11 (NMPreps100) in the state, Baum had an impressive sophomore season, recording 123 tackles, 19 tackles for loss (TFL), and 6 sacks. His standout performance last season caught the attention of many, and he will be a key player in the Cougars' defensive efforts moving forward.

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Lovington Wildcats 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #23

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 10-3 overall, 3-0 district
2023 Playoffs: 4A State Champions
Points Scored: 513
Points Given Up: 383
Streak into 2024: 7-game win streak
2024 Classification: District 2-5A

2023 Season Recap: "Wildcats Roar to 4A Glory"​

The 2023 season for the Lovington Wildcats was nothing short of spectacular. The Wildcats exploded onto the scene, amassing over 500 points on their way to claiming the 4A State Championship. Leading the charge was Rivals & NMPreps 2023 New Mexico Mr. Football award winner, Demarcus Thompson, who was instrumental in Lovington’s success.

The season kicked off with two tough losses against 5A Roswell (45-18) and Seminole, TX (76-21). However, the Wildcats quickly rebounded with a dominant 58-7 victory over 5A Santa Teresa and a hard-fought 26-23 win against 6A Hobbs. Momentum continued as they triumphed on the road against Denver City, TX (51-48) but faced another setback against 5A powerhouse Artesia (44-0).

From there, the Wildcats caught fire, beginning a seven-game win streak that showcased their resilience and determination. They posted a commanding 62-20 victory over 6A Santa Fe before sweeping through district play with wins over Bernalillo (47-26), Albuquerque Academy (47-26), and Portales (29-21).

Entering the 4A State Playoffs as the 2-seed, Lovington dominated the competition, starting with a 52-0 rout of 7-seed Española Valley, followed by a 45-26 win over 3-seed Silver. In the state championship game, they met district rival and 4-seed Portales, where they delivered a decisive 57-21 victory to claim the title. The Wildcats finished their remarkable season with a 10-3 overall record.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

The Wildcats enter the 2024 season facing significant changes, with a new head coach and key positions to fill. Josh Bailey, stepping in as a first-time head coach, will look to guide Lovington as they navigate a new classification and district. Bailey, a former Lovington assistant, inherits a team that will be without some of its top talent from the 2023 season, including standout QB Wyatt Gomez and ATH Demarcus Thompson.

Gomez was a dynamic force last season, throwing for over 3,600 yards and 51 touchdowns. Thompson, the reigning New Mexico Mr. Football, was a dual-threat on both sides of the ball, amassing over 1,100 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns on offense.

Despite these losses, the Wildcats return several key players who will be critical to their success in 2024. Camon Ochoa (2025) is expected to be a focal point of the offense after rushing for 742 yards and 9 touchdowns last season. Alec Holguin (2025) also returns, adding 365 yards and 3 touchdowns to his resume.

The QB1 role is up for grabs, with Patrick Sanchez (2025) and Matthew Prudencio (2025) both seeing limited action last season and likely in contention for the starting job. At WR, Elijah Rivero (2026) will be a key target after a standout sophomore season, racking up 823 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns.

Defensively, the Wildcats will need to replace several starters, but they bring back important contributors like Kyler Reaves (2026), Ochoa, and Sanchez. Reaves was a tackling machine last season with 77 total tackles (TT) and 12.5 tackles for loss (TFL). Sanchez added 5.5 sacks and 46 TT, while Holguin and Jayden Gutierrez (2026) each tallied 4 interceptions.

Realistic Expectations and Predictions​

The 2024 season presents a transition for the Lovington Wildcats as they move up from 4A to 5A, stepping into one of the state’s most challenging districts, District 2-5A. This district is home to New Mexico high school football powerhouses such as Artesia, Roswell, and Goddard, programs with a combined championship legacy that’s hard to match, actually I don't think any district can match the total number of titles.

Lovington’s non-district schedule is equally daunting. They open the season on August 23rd against 6A Hobbs, followed by a rematch against 4A Portales, the team they defeated in the 2023 4A State Championship, on August 30th. The Wildcats then face a road test against 6A Carlsbad on September 6th.

District play kicks off on September 13th against Roswell, followed by a trip to Goddard on September 20th, and a home game against Artesia on September 27th. The Wildcats will then host Mayfield on October 4th before closing out the district slate with games against Gadsden (October 18th), Deming (October 25th), and Santa Teresa (November 1st).

Given the jump in classification and the strength of their new district, the Wildcats face an uphill battle in 2024. NMPreps’ preseason prediction projects Lovington to finish with a 4-6 overall record, a respectable outcome given the circumstances. However, with a new coach at the helm in Josh Bailey and a roster filled with young talent, the Wildcats could surprise, especially if their key players step up in big moments.

More Previews: New Mexico HS Football 2024 Preseason Rankings (link)

Goddard Rockets 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #22

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 6-5 overall, 1-2 district
2023 Playoffs: 5A Quarterfinals
Points Scored: 298
Points Given Up: 212
Streak into 2024: 3-game losing streak
2024 Classification: District 2-5A

2023 Season Recap​

The 2023 season was a significant one for the Goddard Rockets, marking the final year for longtime head coach Chris White. The Rockets finished with a 6-5 overall record and a 1-2 mark in district play, ultimately falling in the 5A Quarterfinals.

The season began on a high note with a dominant 49-0 victory over 5A Santa Teresa. However, the Rockets quickly faced a setback, losing to 6A Carlsbad 27-19. They bounced back with wins over 5A Deming (35-12) and 5A Miyamura (49-0) but stumbled again against 5A Piedra Vista, falling 21-7. A three-game win streak followed, as Goddard secured victories over 5A Gadsden (35-7), 5A Belen (57-7), and then Mayfield (27-13) in their district opener.

Unfortunately, the Rockets struggled in the latter part of the season, dropping their final two regular-season games against district powerhouses Artesia (54-14) and Roswell (38-6). Entering the playoffs as the 4-seed, Goddard's season came to an abrupt end with a 33-0 loss to 5-seed Deming in the quarterfinals.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

The 2024 season brings a new era for the Goddard Rockets as they welcome former Roswell assistant coach Arturo Bolanos as their new head coach. Bolanos steps into a role with big shoes to fill, as the Rockets must replace key players like Blaze Dean (OT), Luis Ortiz (OT), Jon Silva (RB), and Dominic Ramirez (QB).

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What position did you play?

What was your jersey number?

Let's compile a comprehensive list of 100 of the greatest New Mexico high school football coaches of all time, past or present. This lits includes not only the well known names but also those who may have gone unnoticed despite their significant contributions. No need to rank them—just highlight some of the best.

Valley Vikings 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #24

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 8-4 overall, 3-0 district
2023 Playoffs: 5A Quarterfinals
Points Scored: 355
Points Given Up: 223
Streak into 2024: 1-game losing streak
2024 Classification: District 1-6A

2023 Season Recap: A Resilient and Successful 2023 Campaign

The Valley Vikings showcased resilience and growth throughout their 2023 season, overcoming an early stumble to finish with a strong 8-4 record. After a tough opening loss to 4A Bernalillo, 12-6, the Vikings quickly found their stride, securing three consecutive wins against 6A Cibola (15-3), 4A St. Pius X (35-0), and 5A Belen (33-7). However, they faced setbacks with losses to 6A Los Lunas (61-7) and 4A Portales (45-7), wrapping up non-district play with a 4-3 record.

Entering district play, the Vikings turned up the intensity, starting with a 62-42 win over Manzano and continuing with dominant victories against Del Norte (53-0) and Los Alamos (26-23) to clinch the district championship. In the playoffs, #6 Valley defeated #11 Manzano 50-0 in the first round but fell short in the quarterfinals against #3 Piedra Vista, 30-6. Despite the season's ups and downs, it was a successful campaign that marked the Vikings as a team on the rise.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

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Albuquerque Bulldogs 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #25

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 4-6 overall, 3-2 district
2023 Playoffs: Missed
Points Scored: 146
Points Given Up: 327
Streak into 2024: 3-game losing streak
2024 Classification: District 2-6A

2023 Season Recap: A Season of Highs and Lows

The Albuquerque High Bulldogs experienced a rollercoaster of a season in 2023, starting strong but facing significant challenges along the way. They kicked off the season with a solid 34-17 win over Organ Mountain but then endured a tough stretch with five consecutive losses. These defeats came at the hands of West Mesa (43-35), Farmington (50-0), La Cueva (38-0), and in district play, Clovis (42-12) and Los Lunas (54-0). Despite these setbacks, the Bulldogs finished the season on a positive note, securing close victories against Capital (14-13), Santa Fe (28-12), and Manzano (14-13). However, their 4-6 overall record wasn't enough to secure a playoff spot.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

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NMPREPS100: NEW MEXICO'S TOP 100 FOOTBALL PLAYERS

As the 2024 New Mexico high school football season approaches, NMPreps.com proudly presents the NMPreps100, our annual player rankings that have been a staple since 2006. Recognized as the leading source for New Mexico high school football coverage, NMPreps continues its tradition of highlighting the state's top talent. As part of the Rivals family, the premier destination for football recruiting news, player rankings, and national camp series, NMPreps remains committed to showcasing the best athletes in New Mexico.

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NMPreps Write-Up (Links):
No. 1-No. 3
No. 4-No. 10
No. 11-No. 14

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Albuquerque Academy Chargers 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #31

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 6-6 overall, 0-3 district
2023 Playoffs: 4A State Quarterfinals
Points Scored: 235
Points Given Up: 326
Streak into 2024: 1-game losing streak
2024 Classification: District 2-4A

2023 Season Recap: Rollercoaster Season Ends in Quarterfinals

For the Chargers, it was a season of ups and downs throughout the entire year. Head coach David Lee found plenty of bright spots in what was his first season with the team, and the Chargers will continue to look at making strides forward after a season in which they won a state playoff game.

The Chargers opened the season with a 50-0 win over 5A Rio Grande but suffered a 26-14 loss to 4A Moriarty in week two. They rebounded with a win over 3A Hope Christian (34-14) but then fell on the road to 4A Bloomfield (41-0). Sitting at 2-2, the Chargers reeled off an impressive three-game win streak and looked to have turned a corner, defeating 5A Capital (20-14), 5A Los Alamos (14-6), and crosstown rival 4A St. Pius X (28-12) to finish non-district play with a 5-2 record.

However, late-season woes hit as they finished 0-3 in district play, dropping games to Portales (54-0), Lovington (47-26), and Bernalillo (50-14), ending the regular season 5-5 overall and 0-3 in district play.

Overall, their body of work, especially the three-game win streak, earned them an at-large state playoff bid as the 9-seed, which put them on the road to 8-seed Grants, where the Chargers earned an upset win 35-7. The following week, they fell to 1-seed Bloomfield on the road, their second trip to the Four Corners area, losing 55-0 and ending their season 6-6 overall.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

The Chargers had several newcomers last season replacing a talented core of players that guided the program for a few seasons. The handing of the torch went extremely well, with a couple of standouts finding the spotlight, especially running back Jett Galles (2025), who we have high on our list of RBs to watch during the 2024 season. Galles rushed for 1,032 yards and 11 touchdowns last season.

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Portales Rams 2024 Preseason Preview
NMPreps Preseason Rank: #27

NMPreps continues to release our early New Mexico high school football preseason rankings to get you ready for the 2024 season. We will rank all 89 teams scheduled to play in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications, competing in 11-man football. #nmpreps

2023 Season Review​

Record: 11-2 overall, 2-1 district
2023 Playoffs: 4A State Runner-Up
Points Scored: 501
Points Given Up: 141
Streak into 2024: 1-game losing streak
2024 Classification: District 2-4A

2023 Season Recap: A Season of Dominance with a Heartbreaking Finish

The 2023 season for the Portales Rams was one marked by dominance and near perfection, marred only by two losses to their district rival, Lovington. The Rams kicked off their campaign with an impressive nine-game win streak, showcasing their strength on both sides of the ball, including six shutout victories. This incredible run set the stage for an 11-win season and a trip to the 4A state championship game.

Portales opened the season with a commanding 54-0 victory over 3A Ruidoso, setting the tone for what would be a powerful start. They followed this with a 48-14 win against 3A West Las Vegas and back-to-back shutouts, overwhelming Valencia 51-0 and St. Pius X 41-0. The Rams continued their winning ways, closing out non-district play with a 38-13 win over 2A Eunice and a dominant 45-7 victory against 5A Valley.

Entering district play, Portales showed no signs of slowing down, demolishing Albuquerque Academy 54-0 and Bernalillo 38-0. However, their unbeaten streak came to an end in the final regular-season game against Lovington, where they fell 29-21 in a hard-fought battle. Despite the loss, the Rams secured the 4-seed in the 4A state playoffs.

Following a first-round bye, Portales faced 5-seed Bernalillo in the quarterfinals, where they secured a 17-0 victory. Their biggest triumph of the season came in the semifinals, where they upset the top-seeded Bloomfield Bobcats 28-21, pnuching their ticket to the state championship game. In the title game, the Rams once again faced Lovington, their district nemesis, but fell short, losing 57-21. The season concluded with an 11-2 overall record and a 2-1 district record.

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2024 Outlook: Offensive & Defensive Players to Watch​

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What's the four greatest decade of all-time and why

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