New Mexico Colleges and Universities Watch List

• New Mexico (3-5 overall): The Lobos fell to Colorado State, 17-6, but put up a tough fight.
• New Mexico State (2-5 overall): Snapped a five-game skid with a thrilling 33-30 win over Louisiana Tech in double overtime.
• Eastern New Mexico (3-5 overall): Also broke a five-game losing streak, defeating Western New Mexico, 41-34.
• Western New Mexico (2-7 overall): The Mustangs are on a six-game losing streak after falling to Eastern New Mexico, 41-34, in Silver City.
• New Mexico Highlands University (2-6 overall): The Cowboys have won two of their last three, with a recent 44-27 victory over Adams State.
• New Mexico Junior College (3-4 overall): The Broncos narrowly lost to Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, 16-15, and have had a roller-coaster season, alternating wins and losses each week.

District 1-6A Recap: Cleveland Dominates, Rio Rancho Secures Key Win

Key Takeaway: Cleveland is emerging as a powerhouse in District 1-6A, creating a significant divide by dominating 4th-ranked Volcano Vista 38-3. Meanwhile, Rio Rancho's crucial victory over Farmington boosts their playoff positioning. Additionally, Piedra Vista snapped their 7-game losing streak with a win over Cibola.

District 2-6A Recap: La Cueva Stays Perfect, Los Lunas and Eldorado Shine

Key Takeaway: La Cueva’s undefeated season continues, making them favorites in 6A and strong candidates to defend their title. Los Lunas, Eldorado, and Sandia showcased their depth, reinforcing their playoff spot. With recent victories, Eldorado and Sandia have all but secured playoff spots, leaving questions only about their final seeding. West Mesa and Albuquerque could be OUT.

District 3-6A Recap: Centennial and Las Cruces Remain Undefeated in District

Key Takeaway: Centennial and Las Cruces remain unbeaten in district play and look well-prepared for the postseason, heading toward a highly anticipated District Championship game next weekend. Hobbs made a strong statement with a decisive 50-point win over Organ Mountain.

Overall Week 10 Key Takeaways:

• District Leaders Shine: Cleveland, La Cueva, and Centennial maintained their top positions in their respective districts, reinforcing their status as 6A title contenders. Each team demonstrated consistency and team chemistry heading into the postseason, solidifying themselves as Tier I contenders.
• Playoff Contenders Solidified: Rio Rancho, Los Lunas, Eldorado, and Las Cruces recorded key victories, solidifying their postseason bids and building momentum.
• Unbeaten Seasons Continue: Centennial and La Cueva enter the final week with perfect records, adding excitement as they aim to complete undefeated regular seasons.

Thursday, October 24
Cuba 35, Newcomb 0 - F
Eldorado 28, West Mesa 6 - F
Estancia 40, Capitan 7 - F
Highland 37, Capital 22 - F
Socorro 51, Ruidoso 28 - F
Thoreau 62, Wingate 20 - F

Friday, October 25
Artesia 55, Goddard 20 - F
Belen 35, Rio Grande 13 - F
Bernalillo 15, Grants 12 - F
Bloomfield 54, Espanola Valley 0 - F
Centennial 49, Clovis 0 - F
Clayton 58, Questa 6 - F
Cleveland 38, Volcano Vista 3 - F
Crownpoint 50, Gallup 8 - F
Deming 29, Lovington 25 - F
Dexter 60, Hatch Valley 6 - F
Dora 54, Hondo 0 - F
Dulce 58, Navajo Pine 8 - F
Eunice 41, Jal 0 - F
Ft Sumner 60, Escalante 8 - F
Gadsden 38, Santa Teresa 0 - F
Gateway Christian 50, Hagerman 0 - F
Hobbs 56, Organ Mountain 6 - F
Kirtland Central 20, Aztec 7 - F
Laguna-Acoma 53, Hozho Academy 13 - F
Las Cruces 30, Carlsbad 12 - F
La Cueva 55, Santa Fe 0 - F
Logan 54, NMSD 0 - F
Los Alamos 63, Valley 33 - F
Melrose 50, Tatum 0 - F
Menual 52, Cloudcroft 12 - F
Miyamura 38, Del Norte 0 - F
Moutainair 88, Roy/Mosquero 34 - F
NMMI 35, Hot Springs 0 - F
Piedra Vista 42, Cibola 0 - F
Ramah 50, Northwest 0 - F
Rio Rancho 34, Farmington 23 - F
Sandia 26, Albuquerque 17 - F
St Michael's 55, Pojoaque Valley 0 - F
St Pius X 65, Valencia 28 - F
Santa Rosa 47, Raton 19 - F
Shiprock 44, Zuni 14 - F
Silver 16, Manzano 13 - F
Taos 23, Moriarty 22 - F
Texico 50, Tularosa 0 - F
Tohatchi 47, Santa Fe Indian 0 - F

Saturday, October 26
Alamo Navajo 56, Pine Hill 6 - F
Legacy Academy 54, Tucumcari 0 - F
Los Lunas 43, Atrisco Heritage 21 - F
Navajo Prep 34, McCurdy 14 - F
Portales 27, Albuquerque Academy 7 - F
Roswell 28, Mayfield 27 - F/OT
West Las Vegas 35, Hope Christian 13 - F

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*****WEEK 10 PICK 'EM CHALLENGE******

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

Texico (7-0) at Tularosa (6-3), +10,000 (Tularosa is the upset +11,000)
Rio Rancho (5-3) at Farmington (4-4), +10,000 (Farmington is the upset +11,000)
Valencia (6-2) at St. Pius X (6-2), +10,000 (Valencia is the upset +11,000)
Deming (6-2) at Lovington (5-3), +10,000 (Lovington is the upset +11,000)
Volcano Vista (7-1) at Cleveland (7-1), +10,000 (Volcano Vista is the upset +11,000)

Some short trips as the road moves towards playoff trips that could be long and longer.All trips round trip.

10.Texico vs Tularosa. 440 miles
9. Menaul vs Cloudcroft. 444 miles
8. Tohatchi vs Sante Fe Indian 447. Miles
7. Hatch vs Dexter 470 miles
6.Portales vs Academy. 470 miles
5. Manzano vs Silver 472 miles
4. Escalante vs Ft Sumner. 491 miles
3. Organ Mountain vs Hobbs 510 miles
2. Centennial vs Clovis 588 miles
1. Deming vs Lovington. 614 miles


Be safe

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Are you buying into Centennial or Cleveland as potential challengers to upset La Cueva for the 6A title?

Which team is a dark horse or sleeper pick to make a deep playoff run?

Which classification has the most uncertainty in predicting a state champion favorite?

Friday Night Preview & Predictions for Week 10​

It’s Friday night in Week 10 of New Mexico high school football, and teams are battling for playoff berths and district championships. Here’s a closer look at five of the biggest matchups, with predictions and key storylines to watch. #nmpreps

Top Five Games Tonight - Bubble Week Continued​

No. 4 Volcano Vista (7-1, 3-0) at No. 3 Cleveland (7-1, 3-0), 7pm
This game serves as the District 1-6A Championship, with both teams looking to extend their seven-game winning streaks since losing on opening night. The winner secures the district title and a top-four playoff seed, although both teams remain in contention for those spots regardless. This could be a high-scoring duel if Volcano Vista’s run game, powered by younger players, can keep up with Cleveland’s rising QB prospects. Expect big plays from both sides, as Cleveland’s defense looks to slow down a Hawks offense capable of explosive runs.

• Prediction: Cleveland 44, Volcano Vista 40
• Favorite: Cleveland -3.5
• Publisher’s Pick: Cleveland

No. 19 Organ Mountain (4-5, 3-2) at No. 8 Hobbs (4-4, 2-2), 7pm
Organ Mountain faces a must-win situation in Hobbs if they hope to secure a playoff berth. Hobbs, meanwhile, looks to hold off an improved Knights squad at Watson Stadium. Hobbs’ defensive stars, including seniors Tristan Davis, Gustavo Diaz-Castro, Jacob Diaz, and Sammy Baeza, will be pivotal in keeping Organ Mountain’s offense in check. With playoff hopes hanging in the balance for both teams, expect a physical game with Hobbs aiming to avoid the upset.

• Prediction: Hobbs 34, Organ Mountain 24
• Favorite: Hobbs -10.5
• Publisher’s Pick: Hobbs

No. 23 Sandia (4-4, 3-2) at No. 17 Albuquerque (4-4, 2-3), 7pm
This game has critical implications for the Albuquerque Bulldogs, who need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Sandia is coming off a solid win over West Mesa and has taken down Santa Fe and Atrisco Heritage, making tonight’s matchup their final hurdle toward postseason contention. Albuquerque, who suffered close losses to West Mesa and Eldorado, will lean on defensive anchor Jesse Lujan and OL standout Estevan Baca to challenge Sandia’s defensive star Jeremiah Bustillos in what’s expected to be a close contest.

• Prediction: Sandia 22, Albuquerque 21
• Favorite: Sandia -1.5
• Publisher’s Pick: Albuquerque

Grants (5-3, 4-1) at Bernalillo (7-1, 4-1), 6pm
This intense rivalry, known traditionally on the basketball court, spills over to the gridiron as Grants and Bernalillo square off for playoff positioning. Bernalillo, ranked No. 30, is looking to bounce back from last week’s loss to 4A leader Bloomfield, while No. 33-ranked Grants rides a four-game win streak into tonight’s matchup. With both teams aiming for a strong finish, expect a competitive game in which Bernalillo hopes to defend its home turf.

• Prediction: Bernalillo 30, Grants 15
• Favorite: Bernalillo -12.5
• Publisher’s Pick: Grants

Texico (7-0, 2-0) at Tularosa (6-3, 3-0), 7pm
Top-ranked Texico, currently the 2A favorite, faces a formidable Tularosa squad riding high after a 39-36 victory over Eunice. While Texico is favored to extend its unbeaten record and solidify its championship aspirations, Tularosa’s in-season growth has turned this into a highly anticipated matchup. The Wildcats’ defense will need to step up to keep Texico’s offense in check and maintain a close score.

• Prediction: Texico 37, Tularosa 24
• Favorite: Texico -13.5
• Publisher’s Pick: Texico

Additional Friday Night Predictions for Week 10​

6A Football

• Carlsbad (4-4) at Las Cruces (6-2), 7pm
  • Prediction: Las Cruces 28, Carlsbad 17
  • Favorite: Las Cruces -10.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Las Cruces
• Centennial (8-0) at Clovis (0-8), 7pm
  • Prediction: Centennial 49, Clovis 7
  • Favorite: Centennial -42.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Centennial
• La Cueva (8-0) at Santa Fe (2-6), 7pm
  • Prediction: La Cueva 45, Santa Fe 10
  • Favorite: La Cueva -34.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: La Cueva
• Piedra Vista (1-7) at Cibola (2-6), 7pm
  • Prediction: Cibola 20, Piedra Vista 14
  • Favorite: Cibola -5.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Cibola
• Rio Rancho (5-3) at Farmington (4-4), 7pm
  • Prediction: Rio Rancho 31, Farmington 24
  • Favorite: Rio Rancho -6.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Rio Rancho

5A Football

• Artesia (5-3) at Goddard (2-6), 7pm
  • Prediction: Artesia 35, Goddard 14
  • Favorite: Artesia -14.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Artesia
• Del Norte (1-7) at Miyamura (5-3), 7pm
  • Prediction: Miyamura 38, Del Norte 12
  • Favorite: Miyamura -18.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Miyamura
• Deming (6-2) at Lovington (5-3), 6pm
  • Prediction: Deming 28, Lovington 24
  • Favorite: Deming -3.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Deming
• Rio Grande (0-7) at Belen (2-5), 7pm
  • Prediction: Belen 31, Rio Grande 7
  • Favorite: Belen -23.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Belen
• Santa Teresa (1-7) at Gadsden (6-2), 7pm
  • Prediction: Gadsden 32, Santa Teresa 10
  • Favorite: Gadsden -16.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Gadsden
• Valley (3-5) at Los Alamos (5-3), 7pm
  • Prediction: Los Alamos 27, Valley 21
  • Favorite: Los Alamos -5.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Los Alamos

4A Football

• Espanola Valley (6-2) at Bloomfield (7-0), 6pm
  • Prediction: Bloomfield 42, Espanola Valley 14
  • Favorite: Bloomfield -24.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Bloomfield
• Kirtland Central (1-7) at Aztec (0-7), 6pm
  • Prediction: Kirtland Central 20, Aztec 13
  • Favorite: Kirtland Central -4.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Kirtland Central
• Manzano (5-3) at Silver (3-6), 7pm
  • Prediction: Manzano 28, Silver 20
  • Favorite: Manzano -7.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Manzano
• Taos (5-3) at Moriarty (3-5), 6pm
  • Prediction: Taos 24, Moriarty 17
  • Favorite: Taos -5.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Taos
• Valencia (6-2) at St. Pius X (6-2), 7pm - Wilson Stadium
  • Prediction: St. Pius X 31, Valencia 21
  • Favorite: St. Pius X -8.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: St. Pius X

3A Football

• Gallup (1-7) at Crownpoint (4-4)
  • Prediction: Crownpoint 35, Gallup 6
  • Favorite: Crownpoint -28.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Crownpoint
• Hatch Valley (5-3) at Dexter (9-0)
  • Prediction: Dexter 43, Hatch Valley 17
  • Favorite: Dexter -25.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Dexter
• NMMI (6-2) at Hot Springs (4-4)
  • Prediction: NMMI 28, Hot Springs 20
  • Favorite: NMMI -7.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: NMMI
• Shiprock (0-7) at Zuni (2-6)
  • Prediction: Zuni 22, Shiprock 6
  • Favorite: Zuni -15.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Zuni
• St. Michael’s (8-0) at Pojoaque Valley (5-3)
  • Prediction: St. Michael’s 45, Pojoaque Valley 7
  • Favorite: St. Michael’s -35.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: St. Michael’s
• Tohatchi (5-3) at Santa Fe Indian (1-8)
  • Prediction: Tohatchi 31, Santa Fe Indian 7
  • Favorite: Tohatchi -23.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Tohatchi

2A Football

• Eunice (5-3) at Jal (2-6)
  • Prediction: Eunice 38, Jal 12
  • Favorite: Eunice -24.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Eunice
• Hozho Academy (4-4) at Laguna-Acoma (3-4)
  • Prediction: Hozho Academy 26, Laguna-Acoma 14
  • Favorite: Hozho Academy -12.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Hozho Academy
• Raton (4-4) at Santa Rosa (5-3)
  • Prediction: Santa Rosa 27, Raton 13
  • Favorite: Santa Rosa -9.5
  • Publisher’s Pick: Santa Rosa

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What games are you watching this week in HS football (or college and NFL)?

Rise & Grine: Thursday Truths​

NMPreps Publisher Joshua Grine's Take on the Excitement and Debates in Week 10​

As we hit Week 10 of the New Mexico high school football season, playoff implications are intensifying. The playoff bubble in 6A football is as volatile as ever, with three OUT bubble teams in play for the final slots, and more could emerge after this weekend. The realignment for the 2024-2026 cycle has spiced up the conversation. But has it truly brought excitement to the playoff bubble? And more importantly, is the playoff system—particularly the number of teams—still the right approach?

Bubble Watch: District 2-6A, District 1-6A, and District 3-6A Battles​

In District 2-6A, we're seeing teams like Albuquerque High (4-4, 2-3) ready to throw a wrench into the playoff equation. An upset win over Sandia (4-4, 3-2) could cause chaos, potentially reshuffling the rankings and thrustng Albuquerque back into playoff contention. Same goes for West Mesa (4-4, 2-3), who faces a huge game against Eldorado (5-3, 3-2). An upset here could be a game-changer!

Over in District 1-6A, the Farmington Scorpions (4-4, 1-2) are set to face Rio Rancho (5-3, 2-1). If Farmington can somehow come out on top in this matchup, especially at The Hutch in Farmington, we could witness a seismic shift in the 7-12 playoff seed range. Suddenly, teams like Rio Rancho and Eldorado could find themselves looking over their shoulders as Farmington creeps into the conversation.

Further south in District 3-6A, the Carlsbad Cavemen (4-4, 2-2) have a make-or-break opportunity against Las Cruces (6-2, 4-0). Las Cruces has been a model of consistency all season, but Carlsbad’s potential upset could thrust the Cavemen back into the playoff conversation. Or are they already extinct for good? Cruces is playing some of their best football right now, so it won’t be easy, but a Cavemen victory would be the ultimate shakeup in 6A.

Then there’s Organ Mountain (4-5, 3-2)—arguably one of the best success stories of the season after last year's 0-10 debacle. An upset win this week could see them go from afterthoughts to playoff participants, solidifying their remarkable turnaround. This weekend will undoubtedly be a “bubble-popping weekend” with serious implications across the board.

Is 12 Teams Too Many for the Playoffs? The Debate Heats Up​

One of the hottest debates on NMPreps is about alignment and playoff structures. Is 12 teams in 6A too many? Some argue that cutting it down to 8 or 10 teams would intensify competition and raise the stakes for seeding. Teams hovering around the 8-10 range would feel the pressure, knowing they need to win out to avoid missing the playoffs altogether. Imagine the drama if only the top 8 seeds made it, leaving teams like Cleveland playing in the first round instead of comfortably securing a bye.

On the flip side, fewer playoff spots mean fewer opportunities for seniors who might never play another down of competitive football again. Some might say, "What's one more game if it's a blowout?" But we’ve seen upsets before. The chance of a Cinderella story—however slim—adds an element of unpredictability to the playoffs that we wouldn't want to lose.

But still, others think 12 is the magic number. We’ve seen #11 and #12 seeds hang tough or even pull upsets in recent years. The New Mexico high school football NMPreps community is split on this: Are 12 teams too many? Or is it just right to give more teams a shot?

Realignment Quirks: What’s with These District Sizes?​

The 2024-2026 realignment has been an interesting experiment. But some are questioning why certain districts were grouped the way they were. District 1-6A has six teams, 2-6A has eight, and 3-6A has seven. Is it fair? Should Los Lunas, which sits in District 2-6A, really be in the south rather than Clovis?

The travel burdens are worth discussing too. Clovis, for example, might be better off in District 1-6A, where travel to Hobbs, Carlsbad, and Alamogordo in non-district would actually be shorter than its current setup. The speculation is never-ending. Could we see a future realignment that considers regional travel more equitably?

If we were to rethink realignment, how about placing the top nine programs into three evenly split districts, then considering travel distances for non-district games? A team like Los Lunas would have less travel than Clovis in District 3-6A, but maybe Clovis would benefit more from a south-heavy non-district schedule. Should Los Lunas be placed in a south-heavy district and have less travel in non-district games playing APS? Plenty of questions, and everyone’s got a take.

District 1-6A - La Cueva, Volcano Vista, Sandia, Clovis, Eldorado, Santa Fe, Albuquerque
District 2-6A - Cleveland, Rio Rancho, Farmington, Piedra Vista, Cibola, West Mesa, Atrisco Heritage
District 3-6A - Centennial, Las Cruces, Organ Mountain, Los Lunas, Hobbs, Alamogordo, Carlsbad

Rotate Los Lunas with an APS every year (not every two years).

Let the debate begin.

6A BRACKET PROJECTIONS
#1 La Cueva (Auto/DC)
#2 Centennial (Auto/DC)
#3 Cleveland (Auto/DC)
#4 Volcano Vista (At-Large/2nd)

#5 Las Cruces (At-Large/2nd) vs #12 West Mesa (At-Large/5th)
#6 Los Lunas (At-Large/2nd) vs #11 Sandia (At-Large/4th)
#7 Rio Rancho (At-Large/3rd) vs #10 Hobbs (At-Large/3rd)
#8 Eldorado (At-Large/3rd) vs #9 Farmington (At-Large/4th)

Bubble: Organ Mountain, Albuquerque, Carlsbad

Poll: Most Likely to Upset in Week 10

Week 10 Premier New Mexico High School Football Preview and Predictions

We’re diving deep into Thursday night's gridiron action across New Mexico, giving you a comprehensive look at each game and our NMPreps predictions. As the playoff picture begins to take shape, every win and every point matters. Let’s go! #nmpreps

INSIDE THE 25

No. 13 Eldorado Eagles vs No. 24 West Mesa Mustangs, 7 PM (Community Stadium)​

Preview:
In this game of the night, there's a lot on the line. Eldorado (5-3 overall, 3-2 district) is looking to solidify a top-8 seed for the playoffs with a strong finish to the season. A win here could put them in prime position heading into the final stretch. West Mesa (4-4 overall, 2-3 district) finds themselves on the bubble, and last week’s loss to Sandia (41-7) hurt their playoff hopes. They’re in desperate need of a bounce-back win to stay in the hunt.

Eldorado’s defense will be key to this matchup, led by Andres Atsye, who averages 10.5 tackles per game, and Adam Ngola, who leads the team in sacks. The Eagles' offense, while not explosive, has been steady. Quarterback Giovanni Evans averages 101.8 passing yards per game, and running back Isaiah Quintana carries the ground game, in two games he has 154 yards and a touchdown senior Daniel Quinones had 293 yards in 7-games. The X-factor could be in special teams returner Jahari Morehead (2026). The Eagles rely on controlling the tempo and minimizing mistakes, which has helped them remain competitive all season.

West Mesa comes in with a more dynamic offense, averaging 22.6 points per game, but their defense has struggled, giving up 276 points so far this season. Running back Jamari Phillips-Woods leads the team with 81.5 rushing yards per game, while quarterback Dominic Lucero is more of a game manager, throwing for 79.4 yards per game. The Mustangs' ability to put points on the board early will be critical; they’ve shown they can score in the first half but tend to fade late in games.

Final Take:
Eldorado’s consistency and balanced attack should give them the upper hand in this matchup. West Mesa needs to come out firing early and maintain that momentum, or their playoff hopes could fade away for good. Expect a close battle, but Eldorado's defense could be the deciding factor in keeping West Mesa in check.

Prediction: Eldorado 28, West Mesa 17
Favorite: Eldorado -8.5
Grine’s Pick: Eldorado

OUTSIDE THE 25

Capital Jaguars at Highland Hornets, 7 PM​

Preview:
The Capital Jaguars (2-6 overall, 2-3 district) travel an hour south to take on the Highland Hornets (4-4 overall, 3-2 district) in what could be a spoiler opportunity for the Jaguars as their postseason hopes fade. Capital has had a rough go offensively, averaging just 16.1 points per game, while their defense has been serviceable, allowing an average of 25 points per game. However, last week’s 44-8 home loss to Miyamura raised questions about whether they’ve packed it in for the season or if they’ll rally for a final push.

For Capital to make things interesting, they’ll rely heavily on their defensive leaders. Emmanuel Lopez (2026) with 64 total tackles, Jonah Walpa (2025) with 51 total tackles, and Eli Dominguez (2025) with 43 tackles will need to play lights out to keep this game close. Offense remains the issue, but if the defense steps up, they could put the team in a position to pull off the upset. Two wins to close the season might give them an outside shot at sneaking into the playoffs, but that starts with a huge performance hre.

On the other side, Highland comes into the game with momentum, winning 3 of their last 4 games. With a playoff run still within their reach, the Hornets will lean on their ground-and-pound offense led by running back Amiri Mumba, who is back healthy and close to full strength. Mumba has rushed for 662 yards and 7 touchdowns in just five games. Paired with run-first quarterback Alex Lopez (2025), who has 443 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns of his own, Highland will look to control the tempo by keeping the ball on the ground and the clock moving.

Final Take:
While Highland doesn’t put up big numbers, their ball-control offense could work to Capital's advantage by keeping the score low. If Capital’s defense can force a couple of turnovers or hold the Hornets on key drives, this game might be tighter than expected. But with their playoff hopes on the line and their star running back back in form, Highland should have enough to get the job done.

Prediction: Highland 26, Capital 13
Favorite: Highland -12.5
Grine’s Pick: Highland

Cuba Rams at Newcomb Skyhawks, 7 PM​

Preview:
This 2A showdown between Cuba (2-6 overall, 2-1 district) and Newcomb (4-4 overall, 0-3 district) features two teams clinging to the hope of an outside shot at a playoff bid. Cuba started the season with five straight losses but has since rebounded with two district wins, giving them a glimmer of hope despite a tough loss to district leader McCurdy last week. Newcomb, on the other hand, began their season with a promising 4-0 start but has since hit a wall, riding a four-game losing streak and looking to get back on track.

Cuba’s offense hasn’t been prolific, averaging just 13.4 points per game, and they’ve had issues putting points on the board consistently. They’re led by dual-threat quarterback Richard Lovato, who is responsible for much of their production, both through the air and on the ground. Lovato is averaging 57.8 rushing yards and 49.3 passing yards per game. Adriano Yazzie is their top receiver, pulling in 29.0 yards per game, and he’ll need to step up to help stretch the field.

For Newcomb, running back Landon Noble has been a workhorse, averaging a staggering 154.4 rushing yards per game, but despite his efforts, the Skyhawks haven’t been able to turn his yardage into wins in district play. The key for Newcomb will be to avoid turnovers and get the ball into Noble’s hands as much as possible. Zakkius Negale anchors the defense, leading the team with 7.3 tackles per game, but they’ll need a complete team effort to snap their losing streak.

Final Take:
This is a game where both teams have something to prove. Newcomb’s ground game gives them the edge in time of possession, but Cuba has shown resilience in bouncing back from their slow start. It’ll be a battle of the running backs, with Noble and Lovato likely to carry the load for their respective teams. Expect a low-scoring affair with plenty of clock-chewing drives. In the end, Cuba’s slight edge in district experience might just tip the scales.

Prediction: Cuba 15, Newcomb 14
Favorite: Cuba -1.5
Grine’s Pick: Newcomb

Estancia Bears at Capitan Tigers, 7 PM​

Preview:
This 2A matchup features two teams desperate for a win, with both still searching for their first victory of the season. Estancia (0-8 overall, 0-3 district) relies heavily on the ground game, led by Leon Maxwell-Priesen (2026) with 587 rushing yards and 5 TDs. Seniors Rubio (488 yards, 4 TDs) and junior Jose Chaparro (399 yards, 4 TDs) also contribute. Capitan (0-7 overall, 0-3 district) has struggled offensively, scoring just 14 points all season.

Prediction: Estancia 30, Capitan 6
Favorite: Estancia -24.5
Grine’s Pick: Estancia

Socorro Warriors at Ruidoso Warriors, 6 PM​

Preview:
Socorro (6-2 overall, 3-1 district) enters this 3A clash with a high-powered offense, averaging 422.6 total yards per game. Isaiah Ocampo leads the charge, averaging 109.3 rushing yards and 231.6 passing yards per game. Ruidoso (1-7 overall, 1-3 district) has had a tough season and will need a strong performance from Tru Camejo and Levi Shelton to keep up.

Prediction: Socorro 35, Ruidoso 14
Favorite: Socorro -20.5
Grine’s Pick: Socorro

Thoreau Hawks at Wingate Bears, 7 PM​

Preview:
Thoreau (6-2 overall, 4-0 district) has been dominant in district play, averaging 37.9 points per game. Wingate (2-7 overall, 2-3 district) has struggled on both sides of the ball, allowing 355 points on the season. Thoreau’s balanced attack should prove too much for the Bears.

Prediction: Thoreau 38, Wingate 20
Favorite: Thoreau -18.5
Grine’s Pick: Thoreau

What do you have?

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Gadsden 32, Lovington 28 - F

Thoughts? Three game skid for Lovington

What do you have?

*****WEEK 9 SCOREBOARD (OCT 17-19)*****

Thursday, Oct 17
Deming 44, Santa Teresa 12 - F
Farmington 37, Cibola 0 - F
Highland 18, Belen 7 - F
La Cueva 42, Atrisco Heritage 6 - F
Las Cruces 35, Alamogordo 7 - F
Socorro 54, Cobre 0 - F

Friday, Oct 18
Bloomfield 20, Bernalillo 7 - F
Carrizozo 52, Animas 35 - F
Centennial 49, Organ Mtn 14 - F
Clayton 46, Escalante 0 - F
Cleveland 52, Piedra Vista 0 - F
Dexter 38, Hot Springs 2 - F
Dulce 60, Northwest 6 - F
Eldorado 21, Albuquerque High 6 - F
Fort Sumner 64, Cloudcroft 0 - F
Gadsden 32, Lovington 28 - F
Grady 52, Floyd 0 - F
Hobbs 63, Clovis 8 - F
Laguna-Acoma 30, Newcomb 14 - F
Legacy Academy 42, Estancia 7 - F
Logan 67, Roy/Mosquero 16 - F
Los Lunas 46, Santa Fe 0 - F
Loving 32, Jal 25 - F
Mayfield 28, Goddard 20 - F
McCurdy 14, Cuba 6 - F
Melrose 52, Lordsburg 0 - F
Miyamura 42, Capital 8 - F
Navajo Prep 14, Hozho Academy 12 - F
NMMI 45, Ruidoso 13 - F
Pojoaque 59, Santa Fe Indian 6 - F
Raton 27, Capitan 0 - F
Roswell 44, Artesia 40 - F
Sandia 41, West Mesa 7 - F
Silver 22, Albuquerque Academy 9 - F
St Pius 41, Chaparral 6 - F
Taos 35, Kirtland Central 15 - F
Thoreau 50, Zuni 0 - F
Tularosa 39, Eunice 36 - F
Valencia 22, Manzano 19 - F
Volcano Vista 33, Rio Rancho 0 - F

Crownpoint at Shiprock (Missing Score)
Tohatchi at Wingate (Missing Score)
Santa Rosa at Tucumcari (Missing Score)
Elida at Dora (Missing Score)
Pine Hill at Navajo Pine (Missing Score)
Ramah at Alamo Navajo (Missing Score)

Saturday, Oct 19
Animas (1-6) at Carrizozo (1-5), 2pm
Del Norte (1-6) at Valley (2-5), 11am
Hagerman/Lake Arthur (2-4) at Mesilla Valley (6-1), 1pm
Los Alamos (4-3) at Rio Grande (0-6), 11am
Moriarty (3-4) at Grants (4-3), 2pm
Mountainair (4-2) at Hondo Valley (1-4), 2pm
NMSD (2-4) at Arkansas School for Deaf (2-2), 2:30pm
Questa (4-3) at Menaul (4-3), 1pm
Robertson (8-0) at Hope Christian (4-4), 11am
Tatum (4-4) at Mescalero Apache (3-4), 3pm
West Las Vegas (3-4) at St. Michael's (7-0), 1pm

Pretty sure the ABQ fall league kicked off this weekend and am looking for updates if anyone has any. We have a little fall league going on with Northern schools Capital, Taos, Pojoaque Valley, ATC, and McCurdy.
Taos went 2-0 with wins over Capital and ATC. Size and athleticism carried the Tigers with 2 players about 6'5" or taller. Pojoaque also went 2-0 with wins over ATC and McCurdy. Elks played fast and free on their home court and have plenty of shooters with deep range. The Jags pulled away with stifling D on the Bobcats. ATC and McCurdy looked inexperienced at times against their 4 and 5A opponents where depth and size are disadvantages. All teams are at Taos next weekend, with Penasco joining for games in October.

Most Intriguing Score from Friday Night - Week 9

Wagon Wheel Rivalry: Eastern New Mexico vs. West Texas A&M
By J. Grine

This Saturday, October 19th, at noon, the battle for the Wagon Wheel kicks off at Steve Loy Family Foundation Stadium as Eastern New Mexico (ENMU) hosts rival West Texas A&M (WT). While the game itself will be the main event, the excitement surrounding this historic rivalry began long before. On Friday night, alumni began to gather in Portales, New Mexico, including Greyhound legend Michael Sinclair. Sinclair, an All-Lone Star Conference All-Decade Player, registered more sacks than anyone in the 1991 NFL draft class and played for the Seattle Seahawks from 1991-2001. A former linebacker-turned-defensive end, Sinclair earned multiple All-LSC honors and wrapped up his ENMU career with 279 tackles, 45 tackles for loss, and 30 sacks. He also enjoyed a successful NFL career and later coached in the CFL and NFL.

The town of Portales, known for its wide-open skies and ability to see a clear blanket of stars at night, hosted alumni who gathered at a local hotspot for live music, drinks, and camaraderie. The small town atmosphere is an essential part of this rivalry’s charm, where memories from yesteryear come alive. As I mingled with the crowd, all proudly decked in green, I saw generations of Greyhounds come together. A letterman jacket from 1956 stood next to alumni from 2012 as they posed for photos, united by their love for ENMU football.

Next week, I'll be heading to another Division II matchup "Up North" on October 26th—my birthday!—but for today, my allegiance is firmly with the green and silver of ENMU.

Coach Lee vs. Coach Lynn​

The familiarity between these two head coaches adds another layer of intrigue. West Texas A&M’s Josh Lynn is no stranger to Portales, having led the Greyhounds from 2012-2016, posting a 27-25 record during his tenure. Now in his second season with WT, Lynn holds a 5-11 record and has yet to fully turn things around. On the other side, Coach Kelley Lee took over after Lynn’s departure and has surpassed him with 28 total wins at ENMU. Lee secured his first victory over Lynn during last year’s Wagon Wheel showdown, and this year's rematch promises to be just as intense.

The Hounds’ Ground Game​

The Greyhounds’ run-heavy offense has been their calling card, and this year is no different. Led by a stable of talented running backs and quarterback Mario Sanchez, ENMU will look to control the game on the ground. Here are the key rushing contributors for the Hounds:

Prediction:​

This matchup will be a close one, but I’m giving the edge to the Greyhounds. Look for them to control the clock with their powerful running game and edge out a high-scoring contest.

Greyhounds 44, West Texas A&M 42.

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