Best place to get hot wings and what sauce?

Let’s build a Top 10 together! Posts simply need to do the following:

1. Add a team to the list.
2. Argue a team for a different rank.

I’ll start with 5A.

1. Hobbs
2. Volcano

Again, simply add to the list or justify changes.

Keep it classy.

The NFL is worse at hiring head coaches or drafting quarterbacks?

All cancellation post here this season

Three Noteworthy Highlights from Monday to Wednesday

1. Mayfield Impresses Early:
   • Buy Early Stock: Mayfield showcased their prowess by securing a noteworthy win against Del Valle TX with a final score of 80-73 on Monday. This early success positions them as a team to watch as the season unfolds.
2. Carlsbad's Promising Performance:
   • Potential Return: Carlsbad demonstrated resilience and competitiveness in a closely contested matchup against Eldorado, resulting in a narrow 52-47 loss on Tuesday. Their tenacity suggests they could be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.
3. Cibola's Upward Trajectory:
   • Competitive Showing: Cibola appears to be on an upward trajectory, showcasing their potential in a closely contested game against Sandia. Despite a ten-point loss (75-65) on Wednesday, their ability to stay close with a formidable opponent hints at a team with promising prospects for the season. Keep an eye on Cibola's continued development as they navigate the challenges ahead. Cibola went 3-24 last season.

Zach Kmatz, Sandia (Oregon State)
Jaden Davis, Cleveland (New Mexico State)
Talan Barraza, Sandia (NM Junior College)
Silas Hilton, Cleveland (Trinidad State, Colo., JC)
Seth Galfano, Cibola (NM Highlands)
Ramon Martinez, La Cueva (Pima CC, Ariz.)
Malachi Jaramillo, Cleveland (University of Texas Permian Basin)
Santiago Long, Farmington (Lamar Community College)
Logan Sandoval, Ruidoso (Northwestern Oklahoma State)
Lucas Hernandez, Las Cruces (Milwaukee Area Technical College)
Delmonico Granger, Carlsbad (Univ. of the Southwest)
Matthew Board, Cibola (NM Highlands)
Mark McNaney, Albuquerque Academy (Air Force)
Dylan Archuleta, Rio Rancho (Air Force)
Jacob Brevig, Cleveland (Univ. of the Southwest)
Brandon Hennessy, Cleveland (Antelope JC)
Lucian Dixon, Volcano Vista (NMJC)
Dominick Maese, Volcano Vista (NMJC)
Xavier Romero, Volcano Vista (Luna CC)
Antonio Martinez, Volcano Vista (Scottsdale CC)
Jayden Cockerham, Valley (Kentucky Christian)

Mike Robertson has resigned at Eldorado. Also, Gil Bailon retired at Santa Teresa, not sure if they have named a replacement yet.

How soon after championship weekend will NMAA announce football realignment for 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 years ? what you think will happen coaches ?

Please post or send to me. Thanks!

Week One Highlights: New Mexico High School Girls Basketball

This weekend, NMPreps shines the spotlight on four compelling matchups in girls' basketball. While numerous tournaments unfold, we've pinpointed four games that pique our interest, promising thrilling action on the court.

1. Eldorado (0-0) at Manzano (1-0): Bella Hines Takes Center Stage

Witness the debut of New Mexico's number one ranked player, Bella Hines (2025), as she commands the court for Eldorado. Manzano, coming off a narrow 60-56 victory over Bernalillo, faces the challenge of containing the dynamic Hines.

2. Rio Rancho (0-0) vs St. Michael's (1-0): Capital City Invite Clash

Early morning excitement unfolds on Thursday at the Capital City Invite hosted at Santa Fe High School. St. Michael's, buoyed by a recent triumph over Los Alamos, clashes with Rio Rancho in the Lori Mabrey era's second year. Rio Rancho, aiming to build on a 14-16 record, sets the stage for a competitive encounter.

3. Sandia (1-0) at Volcano Vista (0-0): 6A Powerhouses Collide

Sandia, off to a commanding start with a 71-15 victory over Pojoaque Valley, faces the formidable challenge of 6A powerhouse Volcano Vista. Keep an eye on VV's Taejhuan Hill (2024), ranked among the state's top five players, showcasing her skills in her senior season. Sydney Benally (2025) of Sandia adds to the excitement as another top-five player to watch this season.

4. Valley (0-0) at Albuquerque (0-0): Teri Morrison's Bulldogs Debut

The Teri Morrison era kicks off for the Albuquerque Bulldogs, with Morrison bringing her experience from leading the Santa Fe Indian School to back-to-back state championship games. Valley, with a 16-12 record last season, features Giana Roybal (2025), the leading scorer with 11.9 points per game. The clash promises a glimpse into Morrison's coaching impact and Valley's aspirations for the season.

As the first week unfolds, these matchups offer a taste of the intensity and talent that define New Mexico high school girls' basketball. Stay tuned for a weekend filled with hoop action and the promise of emerging stars and seasoned players making their mark on the court.

===

Please post other games that bring intrigue to this weekend.

What games will you attend this weekend?

Week 15: Culmination of the 2023 Season with Four State Champions Crowned



Saturday, November 25th, witnessed snowfall, intense rivalries, and the crowning of four state champions. La Cueva High School secured the 6A crown, Artesia High School claimed the 5A state championship, Lovington High School clinched the 4A title, and St. Michael's High School emerged victorious in the 3A category. Artesia celebrated its state-leading 32nd title, while Lovington marked its 20th championship.

No. 3 La Cueva 35, No. 1 Cleveland 14 - Final
In a highly anticipated clash for the 6A New Mexico high school football state championship, La Cueva emerged victorious with a convincing 35-14 win over Cleveland. The game showcased a thrilling display of skill, determination, and championship-caliber performances.

The first quarter saw Cleveland taking an early lead with a 4-yard touchdown run by Harris Mbueha, putting them up 7-0 after the successful kick by Miguel Quinones. However, La Cueva quickly responded with a powerful offensive surge.

Cheeto Lumbrera III paved the way for La Cueva's comeback, scoring on a 3-yard run that was followed by Chance Whitmire's successful kick, leveling the score at 7-7. La Cueva continued to build momentum, and Cameron Dyer's spectacular 88-yard run into the end zone marked a turning point in the game, putting La Cueva in the lead.

The second quarter further solidified La Cueva's dominance as Dyer showcased his speed and agility with a remarkable 72-yard run, extending the lead with Whitmire's successful kick. Cleveland fought back, with Chuka Tutman scoring on a 1-yard run and Quinones adding the extra point, closing the gap.

However, La Cueva remained relentless, and Lumbrera III's explosive 66-yard run, accompanied by Whitmire's successful kick, extended their lead. The halftime score stood at 21-14 in favor of La Cueva.

The second half continued to be a showcase of La Cueva's offensive prowess. Dyer's arm came into play as he connected with Nate Silva for a 7-yard touchdown pass, widening the gap. With Whitmire's successful kick, La Cueva took a commanding 28-14 lead.

In the fourth quarter, La Cueva sealed the deal with another touchdown, securing their victory in the state championship. The final score, 35-14, highlighted La Cueva's resilience, strategic execution, and determination to claim the 6A title.

With this win, La Cueva closed out the season with a 10-3 record, while Cleveland concluded their impressive campaign with a 9-4 record. The 2023 6A New Mexico high school football state championship game will be remembered as a showcase of talent and the crowning moment for La Cueva.

No. 2 Artesia 35, No. 1 Roswell 21 - Final
In a historic clash between Roswell and Artesia, separated by a mere 40 miles, the two teams met for the first time in an NMAA state championship game, adding a layer of intensity to an already highly anticipated matchup. The previous encounter had seen the Coyotes secure a 29-8 victory at Wool Bowl, setting the stage for a rematch that promised fireworks. The game, played at the legendary Bulldog Bowl, drew an impressive crowd of 7,400 spectators.

Artesia wasted no time making an impact, orchestrating a magnificent opening drive that culminated in a 35-yard touchdown pass from Nye Estrada to Ethan Conn. Despite a missed PAT, the Bulldogs took an early 6-0 lead.

Roswell responded with a focus on Bryce Sanchez, a key player in their arsenal. However, Artesia's defense rose to the occasion, sacking Roswell's Manny Fuentez twice and forcing a punt. Seizing momentum, the Bulldogs executed a successful block on the punt, setting up a prime opportunity at the Bulldogs' 18-yard line.

The Coyotes capitalized on this chance, with Fuentez orchestrating an impressive 4-yard scoring run. With the successful PAT, Roswell claimed a 7-6 lead, showcasing their resilience.

As the first quarter concluded with Roswell ahead, Artesia unleashed a powerful offensive display in the second quarter. Nye Estrada's precision passing resulted in two spectacular touchdowns—one a 45-yard throw to Ethan Conn and the other a stunning 91-yard connection with Juan Diego Duran. The Bulldogs closed the first half with a 21-7 advantage.

The halftime stats reflected the intensity of the battle, with both teams showcasing offensive prowess. Roswell's Bryce Sanchez and Artesia's Frankie Galindo played pivotal roles in their respective teams' ground games, while quarterbacks Manny Fuentez and Nye Estrada showcased their passing skills.

Roswell opened the second half with a crucial drive, culminating in a 3-yard touchdown run by Bryce Sanchez. Closing the gap to 21-14, the Coyotes signaled their determination to make a comeback.

However, Artesia swiftly responded with a 25-yard touchdown pass from Estrada to Duran, extending their lead to 28-14. Estrada's fourth touchdown pass showcased his exceptional decision-making and precise throws.

Just as Artesia seemed to be pulling away, Roswell engineered a game-changing moment. Xai Carrasco intercepted Estrada's pass on 4th and 20, returning it 80 yards for a touchdown. The Coyotes closed the third quarter trailing 28-21, injecting newfound energy into the game.

As the fourth quarter commenced, Artesia faced a challenging situation, 3rd and 28 from their own 2-yard line. However, the Bulldogs executed a remarkable 58-yard punt return by Jesse Armendariz, setting them up at the Roswell 17-yard line. Despite some penalties, Artesia found the end zone with a 29-yard touchdown pass from Estrada to Duran, extending their lead to 35-21.

In the final minutes, Roswell's hopes suffered a significant blow as quarterback Manny Fuentez went down with an injury. Despite a valiant effort, Artesia's defense capitalized on the situation, securing a strip sack and fumble recovery. With just over four minutes remaining, Artesia held a commanding lead and appeared destined for their 32nd title.

The final whistle confirmed Artesia's victory in the Class 5A championship, with a final score of 35-21. The Bulldogs finished the season with a 12-1 record, while Roswell, despite a stellar campaign, concluded at 12-1. The packed house at the legendary Bulldog Bowl witnessed an unforgettable battle, with Artesia etching their name in history with Blue Trophy #32.

No. 2 Lovington 57, No. 4 Portales 21 - Final
In a highly anticipated showdown for the 4A NMAA New Mexico high school football championship, the No. 2 Lovington Wildcats faced off against their district rival, the No. 4 Portales Rams. The game unfolded with Lovington making an early statement.

Wyatt Gomez, the Wildcats' quarterback, orchestrated an impressive opening drive, connecting with Anson Marquez for a touchdown, giving Lovington an early 7-0 lead. Lovington continued to assert dominance in the second quarter, with Gomez showcasing his accuracy by finding Cesar Gonzalez for a touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0.

The Wildcats' offensive prowess was on full display as they built a substantial lead. Gomez orchestrated a series of electrifying plays, connecting with Elijah Rivero for another touchdown, further widening the gap to 29-7 with 2:22 left in the second quarter.

Before halftime, Lovington wasn't finished. Gomez continued his stellar performance, throwing another touchdown pass to Gonzalez, pushing the lead to 36-7 with just 57 seconds remaining in the half.

Gomez's remarkable display continued throughout the game, with a total of five touchdowns and over 300 yards passing. Receiver Cesar Gonzalez emerged as a key playmaker, scoring multiple times on receptions from Gomez.

Lovington's victory in the championship game solidified their status as a football powerhouse, securing their 20th state championship win. Only Artesia has more state championships, claiming their 32nd title on the same Saturday.

The final score reflected Lovington's dominance, with the Wildcats emerging victorious with a convincing 57-21 win over the Portales Rams. This championship victory adds another chapter to Lovington's storied football history and further establishes their legacy in New Mexico high school football.

No. 1 St. Michael's 21, No. 2 Robertson 16 - Final
In the midst of an unexpected winter storm that blanketed Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the iconic Ivan Head Stadium—home to the 2023 3A New Mexico high school football state championship—an incredible display of community spirit unfolded. Faced with the challenge of snow-covered bleachers, fields, and walkways, a united effort from the St. Michael's football family, including parents, friends, and some Santa Fe public school employees, came to the rescue. Their collective dedication ensured the venue's readiness, epitomizing the resilience and unity embedded in the sport.

The championship game commenced with the Robertson Cardinals taking an early lead. Quarterback Jesse James Gonzales orchestrated a dynamic opening drive, culminating in a 23-yard touchdown pass to Quik Cordova. Robertson surged ahead 7-0, showcasing more offensive yards in one drive than in their entire previous encounter.

However, St. Michael's quickly responded, as Soren Annon broke free for a spectacular 78-yard touchdown run, leveling the score at 7-7. The back-and-forth nature of the game continued, with Aaron Doss converting a 38-yard field goal to give Robertson a slim 10-7 lead at halftime.

Defensive highlights emerged in the second quarter when St. Michael's DE Ryan Hunt recorded a school record-tying sack. Both teams faced challenges moving the ball, creating a defensive struggle throughout the contest.

The Horsemen's defense stepped up in the second half, with Sabiani Rios-Guevara securing his sixth interception of the season. Despite a touchdown run from Mathias Duran and a blocked PAT, St. Michael's held a precarious 13-10 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

In a pivotal moment, the St. Michael's defense made a crucial stop on fourth down, setting the stage for a late-game surge. Lucas Gurule's remarkable 17-yard touchdown reception from Reed Bass extended the lead to 21-10 with 3:18 remaining.

Robertson fought back with determination, mounting a clutch drive resulting in a Mateo Contreras touchdown reception. However, time ran out for the Cardinals, and St. Michael's secured a hard-fought victory with a final score of 21-16.

This marks St. Michael's head coach Joey Fernandez's fourth state championship and the school's sixth overall. Fernandez secured titles in 2003, 2007, and 2012. With 11 wins this season, Coach Fernandez now boasts 191 career victories since the inception of his coaching journey in 2002, solidifying his place among the coaching greats in New Mexico. This accomplishment elevates him to the eighth position in all-time career wins in New Mexico and the seventh spot for most career wins at a single New Mexico school. Notably, Coach Fernandez has devoted his entire 23-year coaching career to St. Michael's, leaving an indelible mark on the program.

NMPreps: Week One Basketball Showdowns

The anticipation in the air was palpable as the opening week of the New Mexico high school basketball season arrived, promising a flurry of thrilling matchups. NMPreps, the dedicated source for high school sports enthusiasts, highlighted sveral must-watch games that set the stage for an exciting start to the season. #nmpreps

Cleveland at Capital, Tuesday: The Zack Cole Era Unveiled

The spotlight shone brightly on Cleveland High School as the Zack Cole era commenced. Cole, armed with a talented roster featuring Daniel Stevenson (2023) and Remy Albrecht (2026), faced a unique challenge in his debut — squaring off against his father-in-law, Capital HC Ben Gomez. Family ties intertwined with the competitive spirit promised an intense battle on the court.

St. Pius X at Volcano Vista, Tuesday: Defending Champs Take the Stage

Two-time defending 5A state champion Volcano Vista Hawks, led by top-ranked prospect Kenyon Aguino (2025), take center stage. Their clash against St. Pius X present an early test of the Hawks' championship mettle and showcased Aguino's skills as he aimed to secure another title for his team.

Carlsbad at Eldorado, Tuesday: Unveiling Potential Sleepers

Carlsbad, the surprise of the previous season with a 20-8 record, faced Eldorado, a team with the potential to be a sleeper in the quarterfinals. Uncertainty surrounded both squads, making their matchup a critical early-season indicator of their 2023 prospects.

Los Lunas at Piedra Vista, Tuesday: Jalin Holland's Season Debut

The top-ranked player in New Mexico, Jalin Holland, initiates his junior season with Los Lunas, taking on the Piedra Vista Panthers in Farmington.

Cibola at Sandia, Wednesday: Rebuilding vs. Redemption

Sandia, coming off a stellar 26-6 season, faces Cibola, who is seeking redemption from a challenging 3-24 campaign. .

Valley at Rio Rancho, Wednesday: Roster Showdown

Two programs with early-season rosters generating buzz clash as Valley and Rio Rancho aim to make noise on the court. The outcome of this early test hints at the potential March madness both teams could unleash.

Volcano Vista at La Cueva, Thursday: Bears and Hawks Collision

Volcano Vista's challenging opening week continues with a showdown against the La Cueva Bears. Daniel Lovato and Cameron Dyer lead La Cueva's talented roster, posing a formidable challenge to the Hawks. Dylan Chavez, a D1 commit, added to the Bears' firepower.

West Mesa at Atrisco Heritage, Saturday: Top-10 Battle

A clash of top-10 contenders unfold as West Mesa and Atrisco Heritage face off. This matchup holds the promise of one program emerging as an early Final Four favorite, establishing their dominance in the early-season rankings.

Las Cruces at Eldorado, Saturday: Top-10 Snub Questioned

Las Cruces, perennial top-ten contenders, aimed to prove their worth against Eldorado. With one of the best coaches in New Mexico high school basketball -- William Benjamin, Las Cruces sought to answer the lingering question of their absence from the preseason top-ten rankings.

Sandia at Volcano Vista, Saturday: Championship Rematch

The week will conclude with a championship rematch between Sandia and Volcano Vista, featuring a unique coaching duel betwen brothers Greg Brown and Danny Brown. The Brown vs. Brown showdown promises a riveting sequel to the 2022 State Championship game, with both teams hungry for redemption or reaffirmation.

No. 1 Roswell vs. No. 2 Artesia in the 2023 5A State Championship

As the sun sets on another thrilling New Mexico high school football season, the grand stage is set for a showdown of epic proportions. The 2023 5A State Championship game features two football powerhouses, the No. 1 Roswell Coyotes and the No. 2 Artesia Bulldogs, in a battle that promises to be a Clash of Titans. This game will take place Saturday, November 25th, 1:00 pm, at the Bulldog Bowl, in Artesia.

Roswell Coyotes (12-0): A Season of Dominance

The Coyotes enter the championship game with an unblemished record, having steamrolled through opponents with both offensive fireworks and defensive prowess. Head Coach Jeff Lynn has orchestrated a masterpiece, molding the Coyotes into a team that is not only undefeated but has showcased a level of dominance rarely seen on the gridiron.

Offensively, the Coyotes have been a force to be reckoned with, led by senior quarterback Manny Fuentez. His aerial assault, complemented by a dynamic receiving corps and the rushing prowess of senior running back Bryce Sanchez, has left defenses scrambling. The Coyotes have averaged an impressive 42.9 points per game, punctuating their offensive excellence.

However, what truly sets the Coyotes apart is their suffocating defense. Allowing a mere 73 points throughout the season, an average of just 6 points per game, the Roswell defensive unit, anchored by playmakers like Xai Carrasco, Keegan Nichols, and Vernon Molinar, has made scoring against them a herculean task.

Artesia Bulldogs (11-1): A Quest for 32

On the other side of the field stands the Artesia Bulldogs, a team with championship aspirations and a potent mix of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. Head Coach Jeremy Maupin, in his third season at the helm, has led the Bulldogs to their third consecutive state championship game appearance, aiming to add another title to their storied history.

The Bulldogs' journey to the championship game has been marked by resilience and determination. After a lone loss to district rival Roswell, Artesia rallied, scoring over 51 points per game in their last four outings. Quarterback Nye Estrada, running back Frankie Galindo, and a versatile receiving corps, including Ethan Conn and Izac Cazares, have propelled the Bulldogs to an impressive 547 total points on the season.

Defensively, the Bulldogs have been formidable, led by linebacker Diego Wesson and defensive back Josiah Rodriguez. With a stingy defense that concedes an average of just 11.4 points per game, Artesia has the tools to challenge Roswell's offensive juggernaut.

Three Reasons to Watch this Game:

1. Offensive Showdown: Both teams boast high-scoring offenses led by standout quarterbacks and playmakers. The clash between Roswell's Manny Fuentez (2024) and Artesia's Nye Estrada (2024) promises a display of offensive fireworks, with each team vying to outscore the other in a dazzling showcase of skill and strategy.
2. Defensive Battle: While the spotlight often falls on high-scoring offenses, this game features two defenses that have been nothing short of exceptional. Roswell's stingy defense, allowing just 6 points per game, goes head-to-head with Artesia's resilient unit. The battle in the trenches and the secondary will be crucial in determining which defense can impose its will on the opposing offense.
3. Championship Pedigree: Both programs carry a rich history of success and championship pedigree. Roswell, with two recent state titles in 2018 and 2019, aims to add another trophy to their collection. Artesia, the state's all-time leader in football championships (31 state championships), will look to repeat their 2022 title. The clash of these gridiron titans brings not only the promise of a thrilling game but the culmination of a season-long journey toward football glory.

As the Roswell Coyotes and Artesia Bulldogs prepare to face off for the 5A State Championship, football fans across New Mexico eagerly await a game that could go down in history as one of the most memorable clashes on the gridiron. Buckle up!

Score Prediction: Roswell Coyotes 28, Artesia Bulldogs 24

In what promises to be an exhilarating clash between two football powerhouses, the Roswell Coyotes are predicted to edge out the Artesia Bulldogs with a narrow victory, securing their third state championship under Lynn in a hard-fought battle at Wool Bowl Stadium.

Related:

• Feature: A Day in the Life: Grine's 15 Years of NMPreps
• Feature: 5A State Championship Game Preview
• Feature: 4A State Championship Game Preview
• Feature: 3A State Championship Game Preview
• 5A Championship Team Preview: Roswell
• 5A Championship Team Preview: Artesia
• 4A Championship Team Preview: Lovington
• 4A Championship Team Preview: Portales
• 3A Championship Team Preview: St. Michael's
• 3A Championship Team Preview: Robertson

1. Robertson - The Robertson Cardinals concluded the season with a 10-3 overall record, securing the 3A state runner-up position in a highly competitive season.
2. St. Michael's - The Horsemen capped off an impressive season with an 11-2 overall record, clinching the 3A state championship and adding a remarkable 6th state title to their school history.
3. Ruidoso - The Warriors began the season with high hopes of defending their 2022 title but faced challenges, finishing at 1-9 and missing the playoffs.
4. Socorro - The Socorro Warriors had a successful season, finishing with a 9-3 overall record and reaching the quarterfinals in the state playoffs.
5. Hope Christian - The Hope Huskies concluded the season with a 4-7 overall record, making it to the first round of the state playoffs.
6. West Las Vegas - The Dons found success this season, finishing with a 7-4 overall record. They earned the 4-seed but fell short in the quarterfinals.
7. New Mexico Military - The Colts showcased a strong performance, ending the season with a 9-3 overall record, securing the 5-seed, and making it to the district champs and semifinals.
8. Raton - The Raton Tigers finished the season at 5-7 overall, entering the state playoffs as the 9-seed. They won a playoff game and played in the quarterfinals.
9. Dexter - The Dexter Demons had a commendable season, concluding with a 9-3 overall record and making it to the quarterfinals.
10. Hatch Valley - The Bears wrapped up the season at 5-6 overall, making a playoff appearance and competing in the first round.

3A Football: Week 1 to Week 15. How did We Fare. What are your takeaways?

The Hobbs Lady Eagles, defending New Mexico 6A State Champs, are set to face Aaliyah Chavez and Monterey in Lubbock. Both teams showcase incredible talent, with Chavez arguably ranking as the top high school female player in the entire USA. The game, scheduled for 3:30 pm CST, promises excitement and is one to watch closely.

Preseason 4A Football Rankings Transform into Final Season Standings

1. Bloomfield - Finish: The preseason number one ranked team concluded the season with an 11-1 overall record but fell short in the 4A state semifinals. They secured the 1-seed in the state playoffs.
2. Portales - Finish: The preseason number 2 ranked team wrapped up the season with an 11-2 record, reaching the 4A state championship game. Despite their strong performance, they fell short in the final and were the 4-seed in the state playoffs.
3. Lovington - Finish: From 3rd to 1st, the Lovington Wildcats, seeded 2nd in the state playoffs, ended the season 10-3 overall, claiming the coveted 4A state championship.
4. Albuquerque Academy - Finish: The Chargers started the season ranked 4th, ending as the 9-seed. Despite winning a playoff game, they fell in the state quarterfinals, concluding the season with a 6-6 overall record.
5. Silver - Finish: The Silver Colts, earning the 3-seed in the state playoffs after starting the season ranked 5th, concluded the season with a 9-3 overall record.
6. Aztec- Finish: The Aztec Tigers started the season ranked 6th, ending with a 7-5 overall record, and lost in the quarterfinals as a 6-seed in the state playoffs.
7. Valencia - Finish: The Jaguars started the season ranked 7th, concluding as the 12th seed and falling in the first round. They finished the season with a 4-7 overall record.
8. Moriarty - Finish: The Pintos, starting the season ranked 8th, experienced a strong start with a 4-0 record but missed the playoffs, finishing 5-5 overall.
9. St. Pius X - Finish: The Sartans, starting the season ranked 9th, concluded with a 4-7 overall record and earned the 10-seed in the state playoffs.
10. Taos - Finish: The Taos Tigers started ranked 10th, ending as the 11th seed and falling in the first round, concluding the season with a 4-7 overall record.

Notable Performances:

Grants - Finish: The Grants Pirates, initially not in the preseason top ten rankings, showcased a remarkable turnaround, concluding with a 6-5 overall record and earning the 8-seed in the state playoffs.

Espanola Valley - Finish: The Sundevils reached remarkable heights for the program. Starting the season unranked, they finished 8-4 overall, secured the 7-seed in the state playoffs, won a playoff game, and eventually lost in the quarterfinals to Lovington.

Bernalillo - Finish: Coach Cobos' Spartans, initially unranked, earned the 5-seed, finished with an 8-4 record, won a playoff game, and concluded the season by falling in the quarterfinals, proving their underestimated prowess.

NMPreps Preseason Top Ten from August, 14th 2023.

1. Artesia
   Where they ended: The preseason number one ranked team finished 12-1 overall, secured the 2-seed, and repeated as the 5A state champions, winning the program's 32nd state championship.
2. Roswell
   Where they ended: The Roswell Coyotes started the season ranked number two, earned the 1-seed, finished 12-1 overall, and secured the 5A state runner-up position.
3. Valley
   Where they ended: Preseason ranked 3rd, the Vikings finished 8-4 overall, won their district championship, and fell in the quarterfinals.
4. Piedra Vista
   Where they ended: Preseason ranked 4th, the Panthers finished 6-6 overall, secured the 3-seed, and fell in the 5A semifinals to Artesia.
5. Goddard
   Where they ended: The Goddard Rockets were the preseason 5th ranked team, ended as the 4-seed in the state playoffs, and fell in the state quarterfinals.
6. Mayfield
   Where they ended: The Mayfield Trojans were ranked 6th in our preseason rankings. They ended up as the 9-seed, finished 5-7 overall, and lost in the quarterfinals to Roswell.
7. Deming
   Where they ended: A riser, they started as the 7th preseason ranked team in 5A that ended up 9-4 overall and played in their second consecutive semifinals.
8. Gadsden
   Where they ended: The Gadsden Panthers started as the preseason 8th ranked team, earned the 8-seed, finished 7-4 overall, losing in the first round.
9. Santa Teresa
   Where they ended: Major miss here for us. They started as preseason ranked 9th but finished 1-9 overall, missing the playoffs.
10. Los Alamos
    Where they ended: Snagged the 7-seed after starting the preseason ranked 10th. They would finish 9-3 overall, reaching the semifinals.

Highland started the season as our preseason No. 11 ranked team. They ended up earning the 10-seed and reaching the first round of the state playoffs, replacing ST in the top ten.

NMPreps Week 1 Rankings Reflection: August 14th, 2023, to Final Standings

PRESEASON TOP TEN RANKINGS (AUGUST 14TH, 2023)
6A FOOTBALL

1. Cleveland
2. La Cueva
3. Centennial
4. Rio Rancho
5. Volcano Vista
6. Hobbs
7. West Mesa
8. Atrisco Heritage
9. Los Lunas
10. Farmington

UPDATE RANKINGS FROM NOVEMBER 26TH (THE DAY AFTER THE 2023 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS)
6A FOOTBALL

1. La Cueva - Finished the season at 10-3 overall and secured the 2023 state championship, ending Cleveland's three-peat. They won the 2018 state championship and entered the playoffs as the 3-seed.
2. Cleveland - The preseason favorite earned the 1-seed in the state playoffs, finishing 9-4 overall and securing the 6A state runner-up position.
3. Las Cruces - A redemption story, as the Bulldawgs were unranked in our initial rankings but emerged as the 13th team in our overall preseason countdown. They finished 7-6 overall, reaching the 6A semifinals.
4. Centennial - Finished the season 7-3, won the district 3-6A championship but suffered a quarterfinal loss to district rival Las Cruces. They were the 2-seed in the state playoffs.
5. Rio Rancho - Reached the semifinals, concluding the season at 9-4 overall and securing the 5-seed in the state playoffs.
6. Sandia - A major improvement team, finishing 8-3 overall and claiming the 4-seed in the state playoffs. Despite being preseason ranked 15th in our 92-team countdown, they showcased significant progress.
7. Farmington - Finished the season 6-6 overall, securing a first-round win as the 11-seed, upsetting the 6-seed Volcano Vista. They lost in the semifinals to eventual state champion La Cueva.
8. Volcano Vista - Entered the state playoffs as the 6th seed, finishing 7-4 overall but faced an early exit, losing in the first round.
9. Hobbs - Ended up as the 8-seed in the state playoffs, winning the first-round game but falling in the quarterfinals.
10. Clovis - Concluded the season as the 9-seed in the state playoffs, securing the District 4-6A championship with a 4-7 record. They fell in the first round of the state playoffs, pre-season ranked 18th in our 92-team countdown.

Notable Stories (Preseason Top-Ten Teams):

• West Mesa - Ended up as the 12-seed in the state playoffs, finishing 6-5 overall and experiencing a first-round exit.
• Los Lunas - Finished the season 7-4 overall, losing in the first round of the state playoffs as the 10-seed.
• Atrisco Heritage - Missed the playoffs, finishing 5-5 overall and ending on a 3-game losing streak.

Poll: Which Top-Seeded Team Doesn't Secure the Championship?

Post here

*****WEEK 15 SCOREBOARD (NOV 25TH)*****

Saturday, Nov. 18th
Artesia 35, Roswell 21 - F
La Cueva 34, Cleveland 14 - F
Lovington 57, Portales 21 - F
St. Michael's 21, Robertson 16 - F

Week 15 Pick 'Em Challenge

La Cueva at Cleveland, +20,000
Lovington at Portales, +20,000
Robertson at St. Michael's, +20,000
Roswell at Artesia, +20,000