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Team Rankings 2024 New Mexico High School Football Preseason Rankings: 2A Hozho Academy

NMPreps Unveils Hozho Academy Wolves as #17 in the 2024 New Mexico High School Football Preseason Rankings

In the vast landscape of New Mexico high school football, the anticipation for the upcoming season builds, and NMPreps kicks off its way-too-early preseason team rankings with a spotlight on the Hozho Academy Wolves from Gallup, NM.

Team Overview: Hozho Academy Wolves
  • Location: Gallup, NM
  • Preseason Rank: #17 (2A)
  • 2023 Record: 2-7 overall
  • Points Scored: 121
  • Points Given Up: 158
Key Offensive Players:
  • Brandon Bonaguidi, QB (2026): A standout sophomore quarterback, Bonaguidi showcased exceptional skills, amassing 436 passing yards and 11 passing touchdowns. His versatility also manifested on the ground, with 252 rushing yards and 2 rushing touchdowns.
  • Cross Malcom, RB (2026): Leading the team in rushing yards with 386, Malcom brings a dynamic presence to the Wolves' backfield.
  • Abraham Azua, WR (2027): The freshman sensation, Azua, led the team in receiving yards with 227, displaying playmaking abilities after the catch.
  • Jakoby Spencer, WR/DB (2026): A multifaceted player contributing on both sides of the ball, Spencer adds depth to the Wolves' receiving corps and defensive backfield.
Key Defensive Players:
  • Brandon Bonaguidi, FS (2026): The quarterback doubles as a key player in the secondary, showcasing defensive prowess.
  • Cross Malcom (2026): Malcom's impact extends to the defensive side, solidifying his role as a two-way player.
  • Joaquin Ibarra, DL (2027): A promising defensive lineman, Ibarra brings tenacity to the Wolves' front.
  • Wyatt Piano, DL (2026): Noteworthy for his impressive hands as a defensive lineman, Piano recorded 24 total tackles (23 solo), 1 sack, and 1 interception during his standout sophomore campaign.
  • Jakoby Spencer, DB (2026): Spencer's versatility makes him a valuable asset in the defensive backfield.
  • Brandon Blue Eyes, LB (2028): A rising talent at linebacker, Blue Eyes adds depth to the Wolves' defensive lineup.
2023 Season Recap: The Wolves embarked on their inaugural season in the New Mexico Athletic Association, playing an independent schedule. Despite finishing 2-7, a notable highlight was their first varsity win against Cloudcroft, securing a 35-0 victory at home. With a roster infused with young talent, the season served as a foundational building block for the Wolves.

2024 Offensive Outlook: Entering their first true season in the classification, the Wolves' offense boasts experienced players. Quarterback Brandon Bonaguidi, a standout sophomore, leads the charge with his passing and rushing abilities. The connection between Bonaguidi and freshman receiver Abraham Azua sparks excitement, promising big plays for the Wolves.

2024 Defensive Outlook: Bonaguidi and Malcom continue to contribute on the defensive end, showcasing the Wolves' commitment to two-way players. Keep an eye on defensive lineman Wyatt Piano, whose impressive hands and playmaking abilities make him a potential all-state level player.

Realistic Expectations: As the Wolves transition to a new district and a full slate of games, their schedule remains uncertain. While a tough district awaits, the Wolves are poised for improvement. Their pre-district slate presents opportunities for wins, and the young roster's growth may set the stage for future success. While the road may be challenging, the Wolves are determined to make strides in the 2024 season. Stay tuned for updates as the season unfolds.

Prediction: 1-9 overall, 0-5 district

2024 Football: Class 2A

NEW ALIGNMENT FOR THE 2024 and 2025 SEASON

DISTRICT 1-2ADISTRICT 2-2ADISTRICT 3-2A
CubaCapitanEunice
Hozho AcademyEstanciaJal
Laguna-AcomaLegacy AcademyLoving
McCurdyRatonTexico
Navajo PrepSanta RosaTularosa
NewcombTucumcari

2023 STANDINGS

TEAMOVERALL RECORDWIN %POINTS FORPOINTS AGAINSTDISTRICT RECORD
Capitan1-90.100924390-3
Cuba*8-20.8002591152-1
Escalante4-70.3642873522-1
Estancia4-70.3643174342-1
Eunice10-30.7695082434-0
Hagerman1-90.100424060-4
Hozho Academy**2-70.222121158--
Jal7-40.6363552752-2
Laguna Acoma3-70.3002053430-3
Legacy Academy***7-20.7783842403-0
Loving6-40.6002722131-3
McCurdy6-30.6673682501-2
Mescalero Apache4-60.4002492751-2
Navajo Prep5-60.4553024233-0
Santa Rosa10-20.8335551853-0
Texico11-20.8464662053-1
Tularosa8-40.6675242223-0

Team Rankings NMPreps Top-25 New Mexico High School Basketball Rankings - Week 4 (12/22/23)

NMPreps Top-25 New Mexico High School Basketball Rankings

The NMPreps Top-25 New Mexico high school girls' basketball team rankings for Week 4 are now unveiled, marking the commencement of our comprehensive season update for 2023/2024. As we dissect the current standings, let's dive into the notable performances and pivotal matchups that have shaped the narrative of girls' basketball across the state.

TOP-25 RANKINGS (12/22/23)
  1. Hobbs High School (Hobbs, NM) - 5A
    • The powerhouse stands tall with a 7-1 record, showcasing dominance with a seven-game win streak. Head Coach Joe Carpenter's leadership remains unmatched, with a lone loss to Texas's Lubbock-Monterey.
  2. Sandia High School (Albuquerque, NM) - 5A
    • The Matadors boast an impressive 8-0 start, securing victories against formidable opponents like Volcano Vista and Eldorado. A force to be reckoned with in the early season.
  3. Farmington High School (Farmington, NM) - 5A
    • The Scorpions command attention at 7-0, notching key wins over Gallup and Organ Mountain. Eyes are set on matchups against Hobbs and Sandia in mid-January.
  4. Volcano Vista High School (Albuquerque, NM) - 5A
    • Despite a 5-4 record, the Hawks face tough competition, including teams from California and a narrow loss to ThunderRidge Colorado and a loss to in-state rival Sandia. A challenging schedule shapes their resilient spirit.
  5. Eldorado High School (Albuquerque, NM) - 5A
    • The Eagles, led by standout player Bella Hines (2025), showcase a 5-2 record, poised to make waves this season. A dynamic team aiming for success.
  6. Kirtland Central High School (Kirtland, NM) - 4A
    • The top program in 4A dominates with an undefeated 8-0 start, including a pivotal win over Page, Arizona. A force on the court, setting the tone for the season.
  7. Clovis High School (Clovis, NM) - 5A
    • The Wildcats impress with an 8-1 overall record, securing key wins against Rio Rancho and Mayfield. Their stellar performance positions them as a rising force.
  8. Mayfield High School (Las Cruces, NM) - 5A
    • The Trojans, standing at 5-1, showcase notable victories over La Cueva and Centennial, establishing themselves as contenders in the early season.
  9. La Cueva High School (Albuquerque, NM) - 5A
    • Despite an early stumble against Mayfield, the Bears, with D-1 stars Eva Love and Jordan Dyer, hold immense talent and potential, making them a formidable top-ten team.
  10. Rio Rancho High School (Rio Rancho, NM) - 5A
    • The Rams kickstarted the season with a seven-game win streak, showcasing improvement under Head Coach Lori Mabrey. A key matchup against Eldorado awaits.
  11. Carlsbad High School (Carlsbad, NM) - 5A
    • The Cavegirls boast a 7-1 start, with their lone loss to Riverside, Texas. January tests against Artesia, Hobbs, and Robertson will be crucial for their season trajectory.
  12. Gallup High School (Gallup, NM) - 4A
    • The Bengals, at 6-2, emerge as a prominent force in 4A basketball, avenging a loss and showcasing resilience. Their performance positions them among the elite.
  13. St. Pius X High School (Albuquerque, NM) - 5A
    • The Sartans, at 5-1, rebounded impressively after an early setback. Under Head Coach Bree Rode, they ride a five-game win streak, making a strong case for their prowess.
  14. Organ Mountain High School (Las Cruces, NM) - 5A
    • The Knights, at 3-3, face a tough schedule with losses to formidable opponents. Key wins against Highland and Cleveland showcase their potential in a competitive landscape.
  15. Bloomfield High School (Bloomfield, NM) - 4A
    • The Bobcats shine with a perfect 6-0 record, including a significant win over Navajo Prep. Their early-season momentum places them as a team to watch in 4A.
  16. Centennial High School (Las Cruces, NM) - 5A
    • The Hawks, at 3-4, have faced challenging opponents, yet wins against Los Lunas, Santa Fe, and Highland keep them in the conversation. Their resilience is noteworthy.
  17. Los Lunas High School (Los Lunas, NM) - 5A
    • The Tigers, under new Head Coach Manny Vigil, display promise with a 3-3 record. A resume-building win over Las Cruces positions them for growth.
  18. Piedra Vista High School (Farmington, NM) - 5A
    • The Panthers, at 5-3, have faced tough competition, with losses to high-ranking teams. Despite challenges, they remain a solid contender in the crowded 5A classification.
  19. Las Cruces High School (Las Cruces, NM) - 5A
    • The 5A team navigates a roller coaster at 4-4, with notable losses raising questions. The team aims to find stability and assert itself in the top-25.
  20. Cleveland High School (Rio Rancho, NM) - 5A
    • The Cleveland Storm, at 4-5, strive to establish themselves among the basketball powerhouses. Tough matchups against formidable opponents contribute to their learning curve.
  21. West Mesa High School (Albuquerque, NM) - 5A
    • The Mustangs, coached to precision, stand at 5-2, with losses to St. Pius X and Volcano Vista. Their disciplined approach keeps them in contention.
  22. Valencia High School (Los Lunas, NM) - 4A
    • Under new Head Coach Raymond Montoya, the Jaguars make waves at 7-3, riding a four-game win streak. Wins over Espanola, Los Alamos, and Miyamura solidify their position.
  23. Tohatchi High School (Tohatchi, NM) - 3A
    • The Cougars, at 9-2, assert their dominance, aiming to defend their title from the previous season. A formidable force in 3A basketball, they remain a team to watch.
  24. Navajo Prep High School (Farmington, NM) - 3A
    • Despite a 5-5 record, the Eagles emerge as a top 3A program. Notable losses to strong opponents do not diminish their potential under the guidance of Head Coach Rainy Crisp.
  25. Lovington High School (Lovington, NM) - 3A
    • The Wildcats make a strong statement at 8-2, with key wins over Roswell and Sundown, Texas. Their resurgence positions them among the contenders in 3A.
Others Receiving Consideration: Robertson High School (Las Vegas, NM), Artesia High School (Artesia, NM), Alamogordo High School (Alamogordo, NM), Roswell High School (Roswell, NM).

Merry Christmas

God Bless you all and your families! Thank you for being part of this community!

If you need a last minute gift for athletes, coaches, or New Mexico sports fans you can use the following link, which gives a promotion back to you as a full access subscriber:
https://nmpreps.rivals.com/gifts/purchase



Either way, thank you for the support!! Plenty more off-season football stories coming!

Keep an eye on this week:
Kicker/Punter of the Year
Receiver of the Year
DL of the Year
New Mexico Mr. Football Award Voting
Preseason Rankings

Scoreboard *****WEEK FOUR SCOREBOARD (DEC 18TH-23RD)*****

*****WEEK FOUR SCOREBOARD (DEC 18TH-23RD)*****

Thursday, December 21st

Aztec 54, Bayfield CO 13 - F
Bloomfield 53, Newcomb 30 - F
Capitan 41, Hagerman 19 - F
Chaparral 42, Hot Springs 36 - F
Clovis 63, Silver 18 - F
East Mountain 53, Chesterton Academy 17 - F
Eunice 50, Dexter 39 - F
Farmington 55, Monument Valley AZ 12 - F
Gateway Christian 42, Carrizozo 17 - F
Grants 53, Socorro 28 - F
Highland 46, Rio Grande 37 - F
Laguna-Acoma 53, Magdalena 50 - F
Las Cruces 51, Moriarty 29 - F
Logan 58, Santa Rosa 17 - F
Lovington 71, Post TX 17 - F
Melrose 49, Reserve 27 - F
Miyamura 44, Taos 27 - F
Mora 37, Maxwell 33 - F
Pecos 52, McCurdy 19 - F
Quemado 41, Pine Hill 33 - F
Ruidoso 53, Cloudcroft 31 - F
ThunderRidge CO 39, Volcano Vista 33 - F
Tucumcari 66, Raton 14 - F
West Mesa 56, Cibola 18 - F

Friday, December 22nd
Artesia 65, Gadsden 35 - F
Capitan 37, Ruidoso 35 - F
Clayton 72, Loving 8 - F
Cloudcroft 52, Hagerman 25 - F
Eldorado 48, Albuquerque 34 - F
Fort Sumner 49, Springer 32 - F
Hobbs 69, Alamogordo 24 - F
La Cueva 51, Clovis 41 - F
Laguna-Acoma 43, Grants 40 - F
Las Cruces 77, Miyamura 38 - F
Magdalena 60, Socorro 45 - F
Mayfield 60, Cleveland 41 - F
Melrose 51, Eunice 30 - F
Penasco 64, Santa Rosa 15 - F
Quemado 36, Alamo Navajo 31 - F
Reserve 43, Dexter 31 - F
Roy/Mosquero 63, Mescalero Apache 25 - F
Silver 47, Valley 34 - F
Tucumcari 61, Logan 53 - F

Saturday, December 23rd
Cleveland 46, Centennial 45 - F
Dexter 51, Hagerman 8 - F
Eldorado 59, Rio Rancho 46 -F
Espanola Valley 48, West Las Vegas 47 - F
Eunice 58, Ruidoso 44 - F
Magdalena 51, Grants 33 - F
Melrose 44, Capitan 14 - F
Reserve 49, Cloudcroft 40 - F
Roy/Mosquero 40, Fort Sumner 29 - F
Springer 61, Loving 34 - F

Scoreboard *****WEEK FOUR SCOREBOARD (DEC 18TH-23RD)*****

*****WEEK FOUR SCOREBOARD (DEC 18TH-23RD)*****

Wednesday, December 20th

Clovis 55, Silver 40 - F
Hot Springs 67, Pojoaque Valley 58 - F
Las Cruces vs La Cueva - Missing
NMSD 59, Monte Del Sol 53 - F
Robertson 60, Taos 49 - F
Valley 66, Navajo Prep 61 - F

Thursday, December 21st
Albuquerque 54, Cibola 39 - F
Atrisco Heritage 73, Manzano 68 - F
Basis AZ 59, Wingate 46 - F
Clovis 59, Navajo Prep 58 - F
Cuba 77, Dulce 65 - F
Deming vs Cobre
East Mountain 52, Chesterton Academy 11 - F
Eunice 60, Dexter 17 - F
Farmington 73, Monument Valley AZ 47 - F
Gateway Christian 62, Carrizozo 30 - F
Grants 75, Socorro 63 - F
Hagerman 56, Capitan 51 - F
Logan 69, Santa Rosa 64 - F
Magdalena 57, Laguna-Acoma 35 - F
Mayfield 45, Hobbs 40 - F
Mora 45, Maxwell 38 - F
Pecos vs McCurdy
Quemado vs Pine Hill
Rio Rancho 56, Rio Grande 50 - F
Roswell 60, Goddard 21 - F
Ruidoso 58, Mountainair 29 - F
Sandia 55, Los Lunas 48 - F
Tucumcari 66, Raton 64 - F
Valley 41, Las Cruces 35 - F
West Las Vegas 57, Moriarty 49 - F
West Mesa 74, Del Norte 38 - F

Friday, December 22nd
Bernalillo 59, Taos 54 - F
Chaparral 39, Cathedral TX 37 - F
Cleveland 70, Mayfield 55 - F
Cobre 56, Lordsburg 45 - F
Eldorado 62, Albuquerque 46 - F
Fort Sumner 100, Clayton 37 - F
Grants 82, Laguna-Acoma 53 - F
La Cueva 69, Clovis 64 - F
Las Cruces 55, Navajo Prep 53 - F
Logan 86, Tucumcari 48 - F
Loving 76, Springer 70 - F
Magdalena 67, Socorro 40 - F
Melrose 52, Eunice 27 - F
Organ Mountain 67, Hobbs 54 - F
Roy/Mosquero 39, Mescalero Apache 31 - F
Ruidoso 68, Hagerman 48 - F
Santa Rosa 68, Penasco 45 - F
Valley 66, Silver 44 - F
Whitehorse UT 49, Wingate 43 - F

Saturday, December 23rd
Cleveland 77, Centennial 61 - F
Dexter 67, Capitan 45 - F
Eldorado 58, Rio Grande 50 - F
Escalante 62, NACA 21 - F
Eunice 63, Hagerman 35 - F
Fort Sumner 86, Roy/Mosquero 18 - F
Grants 64, Magdalena 59 - F
Loving 66, Clayton 46 - F
Melrose 66, Ruidoso 33 - F
Springer 66, Mescalero Apache 52 - F
West Las Vegas 61, Espanola Valley 60 - F
West Mesa 62, Capital 32 - F

Scoreboard *****WEEK THREE SCOREBOARD (DEC 11TH-15TH)*****

*****WEEK FOUR SCOREBOARD (DEC 11TH-15TH)*****

Monday, December 11th

Gallup 61, Window Rock AZ 58 - F
Menaul 59, Legacy Academy 47 - F
Robertson 62, Valencia 53 - F
Springer 60, Questa 36 - F

Tuesday, December 12th
Alamogordo at Deming - Missing Score
Bernalillo 60, Espanola Valley 54 - F
Bloomfield 54, Newcomb 35 - F
Capitan at Estancia - Missing Score
Carlsabd 59, Gadsden 36 - F
Clovis 69, Lovington 64 - F
Clovis Christian 68, Plainview Christian TX 17 - F
Da Vinci TX 65, Chaparral 41 - F
Dora 46, Tatum 36 - F
East Mountain 46, Monte Del Sol 43 - F
Farmington 56, Kirtland Central 54 - F
Grants 90, Shiprock 62 - F
Hobbs vs Trinity Christian TX - Missing Score
Hozho Academy 59, Northwest 24 - F
Kermit 66, Jal 51 - F
Los Lunas 84, Atrisco Heritage 81 - F
McCurdy at Cottonwood Classical - Missing Score
Menaul at Laguna-Acoma - Missing Score
Mora 57, Raton 56 - F
Piedra Vista 61, Bayfield CO 51 - F
Pine Hill 67, Chesterton Academy 35 - F
Rio Grande 50, Moriarty 37 - F
Santa Rosa at Fort Sumner - Missing Score
Santa Teresa at Hatch Valley - Missing Score
St. Pius X 81, Los Alamos 44 - F
Taos 77, Aztec 44 - F
Texline TX 65, Des Moines 46 - F
Valley 76, Bosque 31 - F
West Las Vegas 77, Cuba 59 - F
Zuni 88, Ramah 27 - F

Wednesday, December 13th
Capital 68, St. Michael's 51 - F
St. Pius X 79, Sandia Prep 57 - F
Whitehorse UT 61, Navajo Pine 60 - F

Thursday, December 14th
Albuquerque Academy 67, Goddard 30 - F
ATC 49, Belen 43 - F
Aztec 61, Zuni 56 - F
Capitan 65, Gateway Christian 42 - F
Centennial 69, Manzano 57 - F
Cibola 57, Highland 56 - F
Clovis 59, Las Cruces 55 - F
Clovis Christian 52, Carrizozo 38 - F
Clovis Christian 52, Carrizozo 38 - F
Durango CO 65, Shiprock 57 - F
Escalante 59, Quemado 46 - F
Farewell TX 67, Jal 37 - F
Farmington 91, Grants 66 - F
Fort Sumner 74, Alamo Navajo 45 - F
Hot Springs 66, Crownpoint 30 - F
Hozho Academy 47, Ramah 46 - F
Jemez Valley 46, Tse' Yi' Gai 33 - F
La Cueva 77, Valley 67 - F
Logan 89, Roy/Mosquero 58 - F
Magdalena 67, Tatum 17 - F
Maryvale AZ 65, Kirtland Central 48 - F
Mayfield 45, Bloomfield 32 - F
McCurdy 75, Lordsburg 40 - F
Melrose 80, Eldia 26 - F
Mescalero Apache 80, Corona/Vaughn 21 - F
Organ Mountain 58, Hope Christian 48 - F
Roswell 78, Menaul 56 - F
Ruidoso 63, Loving 56 - F
Sandia 90, Del Norte 53 - F
Santa Teresa 56, Austin 45 - F
Texico 68, Newcomb 61 - F
Tohatchi 77, Tucumcari 45 - F
Tularosa 60, Hagerman 57 - F
Volcano Vista 59, Carlsbad 40 - F
West Mesa 67, Riverside TX 40 - F

  • Poll
Feature NMPreps 2023 New Mexico Offensive Lineman of the Year Finalists

NMPreps 2023 New Mexico Offensive Lineman of the Year Finalists

  • Enrique Armendariz (Artesia HS, 2024)

    Votes: 18 40.0%
  • Ezra Hensley (Deming HS, 2025)

    Votes: 8 17.8%
  • Gabe Marquez (Cleveland HS, 2025)

    Votes: 9 20.0%
  • Isaac Garcia (Raton HS, 2024)

    Votes: 2 4.4%
  • Mark Handy (La Cueva HS, 2025)

    Votes: 2 4.4%
  • Naiki Tso (Bloomfield HS, 2024)

    Votes: 2 4.4%
  • Reeco Lujan (Roswell HS, 2024)

    Votes: 5 11.1%
  • Valente Herrera (Lovington HS, 2025)

    Votes: 3 6.7%
  • Warren Schooley (Texico HS, 2025)

    Votes: 3 6.7%
  • Zach Markham (Volcano Vista HS, 2024)

    Votes: 3 6.7%

NMPreps 2023 New Mexico Offensive Lineman of the Year Finalists

Today, NMPreps.com and Rivals are delighted to unveil the recipient of the 2023 New Mexico Offensive Linemen of the Year Award. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon the top offensive linemen in New Mexico high school football for the given season, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the success of their teams.

After a meticulous selection process involving nominations from coaches, fans, and media members, along with the evaluation by the NMPreps staff, we are proud to present this year's standout offensive linemen:

Enrique Armendariz (Artesia HS, 2024): Instrumental to the Artesia offensive line, Armendariz played a crucial role in guiding the Bulldogs to the 2023 5A state championship.

Ezra Hensley (Deming HS, 2025): The Deming Wildcats reached their second consecutive 5A semifinal, thanks in part to the stellar performance of Hensley on the offensive line.

Gabe Marquez (Cleveland HS, 2025): Marquez was a key player for the Cleveland Storm, contributing to their successful season that culminated in another appearance in the 6A state championship.

Isaac Garcia (Raton HS, 2024): As a senior, Garcia showcased his athleticism as an outstanding athlete for the Raton Tigers, who reached the 3A quarterfinals this season.

Mark Handy (La Cueva HS, 2025): Handy stood out as a star offensive lineman for the 6A state champion La Cueva Bears. Despite being a junior, he is already attracting attention with numerous Division-I offers.

Naiki Tso (Bloomfield HS, 2024): Tso, a senior offensive lineman, earned his nomination after guiding the Bloomfield Bobcats to a 1-seed in the 4A state playoffs.

Reeco Lujan (Roswell HS, 2024): Lujan, a senior offensive lineman, played a crucial role for the Roswell Coyotes, earning the 1-seed in the 5A state playoffs and competing in the state championship game, finishing the season with an impressive 12-1 record.

Valente Herrera (Lovington HS, 2025): A standout junior, Herrera made significant contributions to the Wildcats' journey to the 4A state championship.

Warren Schooley (Texico HS, 2025): Another rising star, Schooley, a junior offensive lineman, played a pivotal role in guiding the Texico Wolverines during the season.

Zach Markham (Volcano Vista HS, 2024): Markham, a 6-2 senior, is widely recognized as one of the top offensive linemen in New Mexico. His contributions were crucial to the success of the Volcano Vista Hawks.

Congratulations to all the outstanding offensive linemen who made the list, and especially to the 2023 New Mexico Offensive Linemen of the Year when announced, recognized for their exceptional skills and contributions to their respective teams.
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Reactions: Miner-Aggie

  • Poll
Feature 2023 New Mexico Linebacker of the Year Finalists and Voting

Voting for 2023 New Mexico Linebacker of the Year

  • Andrew Gustafson (2024) - Rio Rancho HS

    Votes: 2 3.0%
  • Brody Whitaker (2024) - Albuquerque Academy

    Votes: 6 9.1%
  • Diego Wesson (2024) - Artesia HS

    Votes: 10 15.2%
  • John Sierra (2024) - Centennial HS

    Votes: 2 3.0%
  • Kyler Young (2024) - Los Alamos HS

    Votes: 1 1.5%
  • Leon Sutulov (2024) - St. Pius X

    Votes: 2 3.0%
  • Manny Chavez (2025) - Portales HS

    Votes: 4 6.1%
  • Mason Posa (2025) - La Cueva HS

    Votes: 15 22.7%
  • Nicolas Chavez (2024) - Santa Rosa HS

    Votes: 10 15.2%
  • Stratton Shufelt (2024) - Cleveland HS

    Votes: 21 31.8%

2023 New Mexico Linebacker of the Year Finalists and Voting

NMPreps and Rivals are thrilled to present the ten finalists for the prestigious 2023 New Mexico Linebacker of the Year award. These exceptional athletes have demonstrated outstanding skills and commitment on the field, earning them a spot among the top contenders for this esteemed recognition. The final winner will be determined through a five-day voting process, with coaches, media members, and NMPreps staff participating in the selection.

Let's take a closer look at the impressive linebackers who have made it to the final round:

Andrew Gustafson (2024) - Rio Rancho HS
114 total tackles, 5.0 TFL, 72 solo tackles, 1 sack for the Rams this season.

Brody Whitaker (2024) - Albuquerque Academy
112 total tackles, 4 sacks, and 9 TFL for the Chargers this season, reaching the 4A quarterfinals.

Diego Wesson (2024) - Artesia HS
78 total tackles, 6 TFL, 2 sacks, contributing to Artesia Bulldogs' 2023 5A state championship.

John Sierra (2024) - Centennial HS
72 total tackles, 2 FF, 1 INT, 4.5 sacks, 20 TFLs, 2 FR. Offer from the University of New Mexico. Three-time all-state member for the Centennial Hawks.

Kyler Young (2024) - Los Alamos HS
150 total tackles, 12 TFL for the Los Alamos Hilltoppers, reaching the 5A quarterfinals.

Leon Sutulov (2024) - St. Pius X
82 total tackles, 28.5 TFL, and 15.5 sacks on the season, showcasing outstanding potential.

Manny Chavez (2025) - Portales HS
151 total tackles, 9 sacks, and 11.5 TFL for the Portales Rams, contributing to their journey to the state championship game.

Mason Posa (2025) - La Cueva HS
99 total tackles, guiding the Bears to the 2023 6A State Championship, 14 TFL, 7 sacks, and 1 interception.

Nicolas Chavez (2024) - Santa Rosa HS
Led the state in total tackles with 164 (109 assisted), 9 TFL, showcasing exceptional defensive prowess.

Stratton Shufelt (2024) - Cleveland HS
Named to the first team all-state for four consecutive years. Over 50 total tackles, 9 TFL, and 3.5 sacks. Played a key role in leading the Storm to the 2023 state championship game for class 6A, attracting several major D-1 offers.

The winner of the 2023 New Mexico Linebacker of the Year award will be announced at the culmination of the voting period, recognizing the exceptional contributions of one outstanding linebacker in New Mexico high school football.
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