ADVERTISEMENT

Friday Facts: All-Time Greatest Teams

NMPreps.com's Top 100 All-Time Greatest Teams (2015)

RankYearHigh SchoolRecordPF/PAPower #
12004La Cueva13-0611-211,211.0
22003La Cueva13-0606-551,139.0
31999Las Cruces14-0559-981,018.0
42001Lovington13-0573-120973.0
51979Santa Fe13-0546-100968.0

Does this still hold up from a 2015 feature by previous NMPreps publisher Kyle Henderson? The Rankings are based off team's final season record, points scored in a season, points allowed in a season, number of defensive shutouts in a season, margin of victory in a season, whether or not the team won the state title during that year,

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Tularosa Wildcats

Do you agree with their 2024 preseason ranking?

  • About Right

    Votes: 2 100.0%
  • Too High

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Too Low

    Votes: 0 0.0%

Tularosa Wildcats 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #64

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

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Del Norte Knights

Do you agree with their 2024 preseason ranking?

  • About Right

    Votes: 2 66.7%
  • Too High

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Too Low

    Votes: 1 33.3%

Del Norte Knights 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #65


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:
1-9 overall, 0-3 district
Class: 5A
Playoffs: Missed Playoffs
Points Scored: 82
Points Given Up: 452
Streak into 2024: 4-game losing streak

Recap: The Knights' struggles continued in 2023, seeking stability in the program. Despite a 21-12 victory over Rio Grande mid-season, the Knights faced a tough season. A positive note from the season was snapping a 21-game losing streak with that win over Rio Grande after going 0-10 in 2022.

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Loving Falcons

Do you agree with their 2024 preseason ranking?

  • About Right

    Votes: 4 66.7%
  • Too High

    Votes: 2 33.3%
  • Too Low

    Votes: 0 0.0%

Loving Falcons 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #66


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

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Ruidoso Warriors

Do you agree with their 2024 preseason ranking?

  • About Right

    Votes: 1 14.3%
  • Too High

    Votes: 3 42.9%
  • Too Low

    Votes: 3 42.9%

Ruidoso Warriors 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #68


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:
1-9 overall, 0-4 district
Playoffs: Missed
Points Scored: 91
Points Given Up: 421
Streak into 2024: 7-game losing streak

Recap:The Ruidoso Warriors went through a challenging transition last season. After winning the state championship in 2022, the Warriors welcomed a new head coach, initiating a total rebuild. The season opened with a 42-0 loss to 5A Gadsden, followed by a 54-0 loss to 4A Portales. Their lone win came in week three with a 21-18 victory over Chaparral.

However, this victory was followed by a seven-game losing streak. They finished the non-district schedule with losses to Robertson (51-0), Cobre (47-7), and 2A Tularosa (50-0). In district play, the Warriors lost all four games, starting with a narrow 12-7 defeat to Tucumcari, followed by a 55-14 loss to New Mexico Military Institute, a close 35-28 loss to Hope Christian, and finally a 60-14 defeat to Dexter. The Warriors missed the playoffs in 2023.

SEASON OUTLOOK​

Offense & Defensive Players to Watch​

The good news for the Ruidoso Warriors is that their roster was inexperienced last season, which means they will bring back plenty of starters this year. Leading the offense will be sophomore quarterback Cade Holland (2026), who shared snaps under center with junior Trenton Hall (2025) last season. Both will compete for the starting role again in 2024.

Tru Camejo and Ashdyn Urban, both sophomores last year (2026), return after leading the Warriors in rushing yards with 211 and 179 yards, respectively. Each found the end zone once. Hall will also provide depth at receiver alongside Joel Ortega (2025) and Lane Coppedge (2027). Although the offense struggled last season, the return of these key prospects should help the Warriors improve and become more competitive.

On defense, Trenton Hall, an all-around standout last season, will lead the charge along with Urban and Camejo. Jaxson Morgan (2025) and Briggs Beavers (2026) will also aim to provide depth. Hall was a defensive force, totaling 104 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 57 solo tackles, and 1 interception. Morgan led the team with 4 sacks last season.

Realistic Expectations​

This was a challenging preview to write, as Ruidoso has been dealing with significant challenges off the field due to recent fires. Our thoughts and prayers are with the community as they navigate these difficult times.

The 2024 schedule opens with games against Eunice (8/23), Tularosa (8/30), West Las Vegas (9/6), and Robertson (9/13) for their non-district schedule. In district play, they will compete in the newly formed 8-team 3A district, facing Dexter (9/27), Cobre (10/4), Hatch Valley (10/11), NMMI (10/18), Socorro (10/25), and Hot Springs (11/1).

While it is challenging to make a prediction given the current uncertainties, our initial forecast has the Warriors finishing with a 2-8 overall record. However, with the return of key players and the community's resilience, the Warriors could potentially exceed these expectations.

Related: 2024 Preseason Rankings

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Jal Panthers

Do you agree with their 2024 preseason ranking?

  • About Right

    Votes: 3 100.0%
  • Too High

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Too Low

    Votes: 0 0.0%

Jal Panthers 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #67


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:
7-4 overall, 2-2 district
Class: 2A
Playoffs: First Round (Lost, Tularosa 42-6)
Points Scored: 355
Points Given Up: 275
Streak into 2024: 1-game losing streak

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

Feature 2024 Rivals Camp Series - Five Star Jacksonville (FL)


I'm excited to attend the Rivals Camp Series in Florida this season, leaving tomorrow. This will be my first time at the Rivals Five-Star main event. I'll be sharing updates on the national level, and I hope to bring back the NMPreps Elite Combine this fall!
  • Like
Reactions: Joey C

Feature 21 Up 21 Down: Analyzing the First 21 Teams in NMPreps' 2024 New Mexico High School Football Preseason Rankings

21 Up 21 Down: Analyzing the First 20 Teams in NMPreps' 2024 New Mexico High School Football Preseason Rankings​

As the 2024 New Mexico high school football season approaches, NMPreps is counting down all 89 teams set to compete in the newly aligned 6A-2A classifications. We've previewed the first 21 teams, highlighting key players, potential movements, and early predictions. Here's a closer look at these teams and their outlooks for the upcoming season.

#69 Estancia Bears (2A)​

2024 Preview: The Bears face a tough road ahead with key departures and a challenging schedule. Despite losing star player Joshua Calhoon, returning seniors Justin Rubio and Marcos Lucero, along with junior Tristan Pebley, will be crucial. Their early prediction sees them finishing 2-8, potentially dropping in the rankings as the season progresses. Continue Here.

#70 Hatch Valley Bears (3A)​

2024 Preview: Hatch Valley enters a new 7-team district with a favorable non-district schedule. Key players like Omar Gonzalez and Franklin Williams will lead the team. The Bears are predicted to finish 5-5, with a shot at securing a playoff spot depending on district performance. Continue Here.

#71 Gallup Bengals (3A)​

2024 Preview: Coming off a 1-9 season, the Bengals look to improve with nearly their entire roster returning. Key players include wide receiver Frank Martinez and running back Samuel Hernandez. Dropping down to 3A and entering District 1-3A could help them turn things around. A realistic expectation is a 4-4 record, with potential for significant improvement. Continue Here.

#72 Chaparral Lobos (4A)​

2024 Preview: The Lobos aim to end a 41-game losing streak with experienced players like Manny Rodriguez leading the way. Young talents gaining experience could finally turn the tide for Chaparral. An early prediction sees them at 1-9, but with hopes of securing at least one victory to break the streak. Continue Here.

#73 Legacy Academy Silverbacks (2A)​

2024 Preview: Legacy Academy transitions from 8-man to 11-man football with a talented roster. Junior quarterback Lorenzo Sedillo-Urban, who passed for 1,343 yards and 25 touchdowns last season, will be a key player. They could surprise many in their first season in Class 2A. Continue Here.

#74 Thoreau Hawks (3A)​

2024 Preview: The Hawks look to build on the promise shown by sophomore Saige Westmoreland, who rushed for 405 yards and 3 touchdowns last season. Their performance will hinge on the development of young talents. Continue Here.

#75 Tucumcari Rattlers (2A)​

2024 Preview: The Rattlers face a challenging season but have the potential to compete if key players step up. With a mix of returning talent and new faces, they aim to improve their standings in 2A football. Continue Here.

#76 Cuba Rams (2A)​

2024 Preview: Quarterback Richard Lovato, who passed for 1,102 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, will be the spark for the Rams. If he can build on his sophomore performance, the Rams could contend for a district title. Continue Here.

#77 McCurdy Bobcats (2A)​

2024 Preview: Excitement surrounds McCurdy with the return of dual-threat quarterback Jeremaya Roybal. His performance will be critical in leading the Bobcats to success this season. Continue Here.

#78 Navajo Prep Eagles (2A)​

2024 Preview: The Eagles are poised to make improvements with a mix of returning players and promising newcomers. Their focus will be on building a competitive team in 2A football. Continue Here.

#79 Crownpoint Eagles (3A)​

2024 Preview: Crownpoint aims to solidify their team with returning players who gained valuable experience last season. Key players will need to step up to make a significant impact in their district. Continue Here.

#80 Newcomb Skyhawks (2A)​

2024 Preview: The Skyhawks look to improve with a roster that includes both experienced players and young talent. Their focus will be on developing a cohesive unit to compete in 2A football. Continue Here.

#81 Tohatchi Cougars (3A)​

2024 Preview: The Cougars are set to build on their returning players' experience. Key positions will need to be filled, but the potential for growth is evident. Continue Here.

#82 Hot Springs Tigers (3A)​

2024 Preview: Talented athlete Tristan Polanco, who accounted for three rushing touchdowns and two passing touchdowns in a backup role, will be a key player for the Tigers. Their success will depend on developing depth across the roster. Continue Here.

#83 Santa Fe Indian Braves (3A)​

2024 Preview: The Braves aim to improve with a mix of returning talent and new players. Their focus will be on building a competitive team to climb the rankings. Continue Here.

#84 Wingate Bears (3A)​

2024 Preview: The Bears look to make strides with a roster that includes some experienced players and promising newcomers. Continue Here.

#85 Zuni Thunderbirds (3A)​

2024 Preview: The Thunderbirds face a challenging season but have the potential to improve with key returning players. Their performance will hinge on how well they can integrate new talents. Continue Here.

#86 Shiprock Chieftains (3A)​

2024 Preview: Shiprock aims to turn things around with a focus on developing their young players. The key to their success will be building a cohesive unit. Continue Here.

#87 Capitan Tigers (2A)​

2024 Preview: The Tigers look to improve with returning players who gained experience last season. Their focus will be on competing effectively in 2A football. Continue Here.

#88 Laguna-Acoma Hawks (2A)​

2024 Preview: The Hawks face a challenging season but have the potential to grow with key returning players. Continue Here.

#89 Hozho Academy (2A)​

2024 Preview: Hozho Academy enters the 2024 season with a focus on building their program. Their success will depend on the development of their young players and creating a strong foundation for the future. Continue Here.

Key Players to Watch​

Manny Rodriguez (Chaparral Lobos, Class of 2025): Rodriguez, one of the top defensive players in the district, returns after recording 141 total tackles (91 solo) last season. His leadership and experience will be vital for a Lobos team eager to end their long losing streak.

Lorenzo Sedillo-Urban (Legacy Academy, Class of 2026): The junior quarterback had an impressive sophomore season with 1,343 passing yards and 25 passing touchdowns, along with 374 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns. He will be a key player as Legacy Academy transitions to 11-man football.

Jeremaya Roybal (McCurdy Bobcats, Class of 2025): Roybal, a dual-threat quarterback, excelled last season and will be crucial for the Bobcats. His standout performance against Cuba, where he rushed for 293 yards and four touchdowns, highlights his potential.

Richard Lovato (Cuba Rams, Class of 2025): Lovato, who passed for 1,102 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, will lead the Rams. His ability to build on last season's performance could guide Cuba to a district title.

Saige Westmoreland (Thoreau Hawks, Class of 2026): Westmoreland showed promise as a sophomore, rushing for 405 yards and 3 touchdowns. His development will be key for the Hawks.

Tristan Polanco (Hot Springs Tigers, Class of 2026): Polanco returns after passing for 237 yards and rushing for 124 yards in a backup role, accounting for three rushing touchdowns and two passing touchdowns. He will be a crucial player for the Tigers.

Potential Movements and Early Predictions​

Estancia Bears (#69): With a tough schedule and key departures, the Bears might drop into the 70s early on.

Legacy Academy (#73): Loaded with talent, Legacy Academy turned heads last season in 8-man football. They could once again impress in their first season of Class 2A football playing 11-man.

Chaparral Lobos (#72): The Lobos have the potential to break their 41 game losing streak this season with experienced players like Rodriguez and young talents. A 1-9 overall record is predicted, but securing a win would be a significant victory.

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Hatch Valley Bears

Do you agree with their 2024 preseason ranking?

  • About Right

  • Too High

  • Too Low


Results are only viewable after voting.

Hatch Valley Bears 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #70


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:
5-6 overall, 1-2 district
Playoffs: First Round (L, Dexter 38-6)
Points Scored: 310
Points Given Up: 274
Streak into 2024: 3-game losing streak

Recap: The Hatch Valley Bears showed promise by opening the season with a dominant 50-0 win over Laguna-Acoma at home. However, they hit a rough patch, dropping the next three games to Hope Christian (23-20), Tularosa (48-7), and Anthony, TX (35-20). The Bears then rallied with a four-game win streak, improving to 5-3 on the season with victories over Chaparral (37-19), Estancia (55-34), Capitan (47-0), and a district-opening win against Hot Springs (48-0).

Unfortunately, the Bears hit another slump, losing to Socorro (37-20) and Cobre (40-0) to finish district play at 1-2. Their season ended with a 38-6 loss to Dexter in the opening round of the 3A playoffs. Despite the ups and downs, the Bears showed flashes of potential and will look to build on those positive moments as they head into the 2024 season.

Offense/Defense Outlook

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Gallup Bengals

Do you agree with their 2024 preseason ranking?

  • About Right

  • Too High

  • Too Low


Results are only viewable after voting.

Gallup Bengals 2024 Season Preview
NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #71


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:
1-9 overall, 0-3 district
Playoffs: Missed
Points Scored: 42
Points Given Up: 515
Streak into 2024: 3-game losing streak

Recap: There isn't much positive to say about the Gallup Bengals' 2023 season, as they finished with a 1-9 overall record. However, they did manage to snap a 16-game losing streak by defeating Shiprock 30-6. The Bengals struggled throughout the season, losing their first six games and only managing to get on the scoreboard in their third game, a 59-6 loss to Miyamura. Other notable losses included Moriarty (50-0), Grants (56-0), Taos (55-0), Espanola Valley (58-0), and Socorro (57-6). After their lone win over Shiprock, the Bengals went winless and scoreless in their final three district games, losing to Aztec (54-0), Kirtland Central (54-0), and Bloomfield (66-0).

Offense/Defense Outlook

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

Player Rankings Top Running Backs for the 2024 Season

CLICK: LINKED HERE

The NMPreps staff will diligently continue to update and expand our roster of players for each feature showcasing the top talent at every position for the 2024 season. Coaches, we invite you to provide us with any updated information or players you believe should be added to our database. Please feel free to reach out to our text publisher, Joshua Grine, to submit your recommendations 505-414-4313

Player Rankings Top Linebackers for the 2024 Season

Top Linebackers in New Mexico High School Football for the 2024 Season

Today, NMPreps kicks off our countdown of the standout linebackers to keep an eye on during the 2024 New Mexico high school football season. This marks the beginning of our series highlighting the top players to watch in the upcoming season.

Angel Maya - Atrisco Heritage Academy - Class 6A - 2025
Maya, standing at 5'8" and weighing 180 lbs, is ready to make his mark on the field for Atrisco Heritage Academy. With 38 tackles to his name, Maya is known for his tenacity and ability to make plays on defense.

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

  • Poll
Feature 2024 Best & Worst Case Scenario: Belen Eagles

Predict the Record

  • 10-0

  • 9-1

  • 8-2

  • 7-3

  • 6-4

  • 5-5

  • 4-6

  • 3-7

  • 2-8

  • 1-9/0-10


Results are only viewable after voting.

NMPreps Best and Worst Case Scenarios for the 2024 New Mexico High School Football Season: Belen Eagles​

NMPreps continues our fan-favorite annual feature as we review all the schedules in New Mexico high school football with our Best & Worst Case Scenario for the 2024 season. #nmpreps

Belen Eagles Schedule:

DateOpponentGame Type
8/23vs BloomfieldUnderdog
8/30at Santa FeCoin Flip
9/6vs ValenciaCoin Flip
9/12at Valley*Underdog
9/20vs Del Norte*Favorite
9/27at Miyamura*Favorite
10/4vs Los Alamos*Underdog
10/17at Highland*Coin Flip
10/25vs Rio Grande*Favorite
11/1at Capital*Coin Flip

The Belen Eagles have won 3 games over the past two years, coming off a 1-10 overall season with a 1-2 finish in district play. Despite this, they made the state playoffs in both seasons.

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.

NM 5A All-State

Pitcher
1st Team
Jaden Davis-Cleveland
Randy Bailey-Orgsn Mountain
Dylan Blomker-La Cueva
Braiden Reynolds-La Cueva
Hazen Wright-Carlsbad

2nd Team
Hudson Harrison-Centennial
Fabian Hernandez-Carlsbad
Johnny Kerze—Eldorado
Lane Shrader-Rio Grande
Joseph Stevenson-Cleveland

Honorable Mention
Lucas Hernandez-Las Cruces
Tate Johnson-Organ Mountain
Zachary Kmatz-Sandia
Isaac Seldner-Mayfield
JJ Utah-Los Lunas

Infield
1st Team
Matthew Hall-Organ Mountain
Ramon Martinez-La Cueva
Gehrig Pineda-La Cueva
Braiden Reynolds-La Cueva
Jaren Villa-Cleveland

2nd Team
Talan Barraza-Sandia
Nick DiGregorio-Rio Rancho
Zakye Hawkins-Las Cruces
Fabian Hernandez-Carlsbad
Aiden Quintela-Carlsbad

Honorable Mention
Adriel Figueroa-Brito-Sandia
Gera Delgado-Organ Mountain
Reid Jacobson-La Cueva
Ryan Lewis-Rio Rancho
Jonas Molinar-Carlsbad

Outfield
1st Team
Dean Ellison-Rio Rancho
Brandon Hennessey-Cleveland
Casen Savage-Rio Rancho

2nd Team
Tanner Collins-Carlsbad
Eric Gomez-Organ Mountain
Fabian Trujillo-Los Lunas

Honorable Mention
Jackson Hix-La Cueva
Rey Ponce-Organ Mountain
Tim Kamphius-Eldorado

Catcher
1st Team
Delmonico Moreno-Granger-Carlsbad

2nd Team
Luke Reiter-La Cueva

Honorable Mention
Nate Leyva-Organ Mountain

Utility
1st Team
Anthony Del Angel-Cleveland

2nd Team
Eloy Lopez-Carlsbad

Honorable Mention
Israel Molina-Centennial

Designated Hitter
1st Team
Dylan Archuleta-Rio Rancho

2nd Team
Jasiah Mendoza-Clovis

Honorable Mention
Jose Martinez-Rio Grande

Co-Player of the Year
Braiden Reynolds-La Cueva
Casen Savage-Rio Rancho

Coach of the Year
Gerard Pineda-La Cueva

  • Poll
Team Rankings 2024 Preseason Rankings: Legacy Academy Silverbacks

Do you agree with their preseason rank?

  • About Right

  • Too High

  • Too Low


Results are only viewable after voting.

Legacy Academy Silverbacks 2024 Season Preview​

NMPreps Preseason Ranking: #73

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: 7-2 overall, 3-0 district
  • Playoffs: First Round (Lost, to Clayton 28-26)
  • Points Scored: 384
  • Points Given Up: 240
  • Streak into 2024: 1-game losing streak
Recap: The Legacy Academy Silverbacks concluded their second season as a football program with a remarkable 7-2 overall record and secured the district championship in 8-man football. Despite a tough start with a 52-0 loss to powerhouse Melrose, the Silverbacks bounced back impressively with seven consecutive wins. Key victories included dominant performances over Clayton (62-26), Lordsburg (56-6), Tatum (34-30), and Mesilla Valley (64-36) in non-district play. In district competition, they defeated Pine Hill (52-20), Questa (46-30), and Menaul (44-12). As the 2-seed in the playoffs, their season ended in a narrow first-round upset by 7-seed Clayton, 28-26, in the 8-man playoffs.

Offense/Defense Outlook​

The Silverbacks demonstrated their offensive prowess last season, generating excitement for a possibly higher-than-expected preseason ranking in their first foray into 11-man football. Key returners will be crucial to their success.

This is premium content. Please subscribe to view.
ADVERTISEMENT

Filter

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT