TEAM CAPSULES
No. 1 Eunice Cardinals
Record: 8-2 overall, 4-0 in district play (1st)
Points For: 398 (average of 39.8 per game)
Points Against: 199 (19.9 on average)
Preview: The Eunice Cardinals are entering the playoffs with a four-game winning streak, an impressive feat given their only two losses came early in the season against the top-ranked 3A team, Dexter, and the formidable 4A powerhouse, Portales, both games taking place in September. Quarterback Elijah Melancon (2026) has consistently showcased his prowess and is undoubtedly one of the top quarterbacks to watch in 2A football this season. Melancon boasts impressive statistics with 1,943 passing yards and an impressive 29 passing touchdowns. Elian Woods (2025) has been a force in the rushing game, amassing 919 yards and contributing 13 touchdowns this season. Melancon's reliable targets include Ashton Thompson (2024) with 714 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns, Maddox Mata (2025) with 579 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns, and Luis Gomez (2025) with 319 receiving yards. It's worth noting that Gomez is a standout on the defensive front, leading the team with 74 total tackles (43 solo). Seniors Jacob Ortega, with 60 total tackles, and Brady Colborn, with 54 total tackles, have been instrumental anchors on the defensive side of the ball.
No. 2 Texico Wolverines
Record: 8-2 overall, 3-1 in district play (2nd)
Points For: 343 (averaging 34.3 points per game)
Points Against: 177 (17.7 on average)
Preview: The Texico Wolverines came achingly close to clinching the state championship in 2022, falling short in a hard-fought battle against Jal (41-21). Head coach Bob Gilbreath and his determined Wolverines are eager for another shot at the title. Riding a three-game winning streak into the postseason, their only losses this season came at the hands of top-seeded Eunice (21-14) and Farewell, Texas (47-22). Keep an eye on senior Cade Figg, a formidable 6-foot-3, 200-pound quarterback who's been an unrelenting force on the field. Running back Alex Fuentes (2025) is a name you'll want to remember, not just for this postseason but as a top player to watch in the 2024 season. Fuentes is a powerhouse in the backfield, unafraid of contact. Luke Thompson adds another layer to this well-balanced Texico offense. With their abundant talent, the Wolverines have been knocking on the door for years. The question is, can they overcome the final hurdle and secure the title this season?
No. 3 Santa Rosa Lions
Record: 9-1 overall, 3-0 in district play (1st)
Points For: 477 (averaging 47.7 points per game)
Points Against: 141 (14.1 on average)
Preview: The Santa Rosa Lions, seeded at No. 3, have showcased one of the most dominant backfield duos in 2A football this season. Seniors Nicholas Chavez and Jykub Gage have left a trail of awe with their remarkable running abilities. Chavez has taken the lead, amassing a team-high 1,844 rushing yards and an astounding 27 rushing touchdowns. Gage, orchestrating plays from under center, has contributed 1,189 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns, and he's added another dimension to the offense with 512 passing yards and 9 passing touchdowns. Senior AJ Romo has been another significant contributor, with 283 rushing yards and 6 rushing touchdowns, further fortifying the Lions' powerful ground attack under the guidance of head coach David Chavez. Defense: Not only do the Lions excel on the offensive front, but they also boast a formidable defense. Nicholas Chavez, who seems to do it all, leads the defensive unit with an impressive 126 total tackles (42 solo). Solomon Ross and Ryan Tenorio are another duo of enforcers in this lion-hearted defense. Ross has recorded 5 sacks and 37 total tackles this season, while Tenorio has amassed 58 total tackles and an impressive 12 tackles for loss. With a combination of potent offense and a robust defense, the Lions are poised for a deep playoff run.
No. 4 Jal Panthers
Record: 7-3 overall, 2-2 in district
Points For: Averaging 34.9 points per game (349 total)
Points Against: Allowing an average of 23.3 points per game (233 total)
Preview: The reigning 2A state champions are gearing up for another playoff run, and they enter as one of the favorites. The Panthers showcased their strength during the non-district schedule, finishing with a stellar 5-1 overall record. Their only setback came at the hands of a formidable 3A Dexter team, with a score of 30-6 in early September. In district play, Jal posted a 2-2 record, securing victories over Loving (24-6) and Hagerman (57-6), while experiencing losses to Eunice (42-28) and Texico (21-13). Head coach Dusty Giles has molded a talented roster that is quietly making waves in the 2A bracket. Among the standout players, running back Andre Rodriguez (2025) is a dynamic speedster who can change the game's momentum in an instant. Supporting the offense are key players like Ito Arroyo (2024) and Nolbert Cervantes (2025). Meanwhile, the defensive unit is anchored by Brandon Houston (2024) and Cash Taylor (2025), forming a formidable force that opponents must contend with. Keep an eye on the Jal Panthers as they aim to defend their championship and make a deep playoff run.
No. 5 Tularosa Wildcats
Record: 7-3 overall, 3-0 in district (1st)
Points For: Averaging 48.2 points per game (482 total)
Points Against: Allowing an average of 16.2 points per game (162 total)
Preview: The Tularosa Wildcats are surging into the playoffs with confidence, riding a three-game winning streak and the district championship under their belt. This remarkable momentum has established them as strong contenders for a deep playoff run, and they are poised to potentially pull off some upsets. While the Wildcats have three losses on their season record, it's worth noting that these came at the hands of quality opponents. Their defeats were dealt by Jal (39-38), Santa Rosa (34-28), and a formidable 3A Cobre team (27-26). It's clear that the Wildcats are battle-tested, having faced strong competition throughout the season. Under the guidance of head coach Michael Felicetti, the Tularosa Wildcats have shown marked improvement on both sides of the ball. Their defense has become a formidable unit, making it challenging for opponents to score. The defensive line features big, strong, and powerful players such as Xavier Chavez (2024), Shawn Boroski (2025), and Ryder LaPaz (2025). On the offensive side, there is no shortage of playmakers. Receiver Kani Mathis (2024) stands out as an absolute speedster, deserving more recognition for his contributions. Quarterback Dillon Salazar has been a standout performer this season, showcasing his skills in an extraordinary fashion. In their impressive 68-19 win against Escalante, Salazar and Mathis set New Mexico state records for touchdown passes and touchdown receptions. Salazar tied a state record with nine touchdown throws, with senior receiver Kani Mathis catching seven of those, setting a new state record. Adding to the offensive arsenal is the presence of a big and powerful receiver in 2024's Anthony Paz and the skills of running back Seth Kazhe (2025). The Tularosa Wildcats field a well-rounded offense that is filled with intrigue and the potential for explosive plays. Keep an eye on this dynamic team as they embark on their playoff journey with high expectations.
No. 6 Loving Falcons
Record: 6-3 overall, 1-3 in district play (4th)
Points For: 257 (averaging 28.6 points per game)
Points Against: 156 (17.3 on average)
Preview: The Loving Falcons have embarked on a remarkable journey of improvement, evolving from a 1-9 record in 2021 to a 7-4 performance in 2022, and currently boasting a 6-3 record this season. They have been navigating the challenges of a district that is arguably one of the most competitive, top to bottom, in New Mexico high school 11-man football. The Falcons stormed out of the gate with a 6-0 start to the season before facing the formidable teams in their district. Although they dropped the final three games of the season to Jal (24-6), Eunice (35-28), and Texico (45-6), their progress is undeniable. Much of the Falcons' success can be attributed to their 2024 quarterback, Kaleb Rodriguez, a three-year starter. Rodriguez has been exceptional this season, amassing 1,533 passing yards and tallying 22 touchdowns. He's been a key factor in the Falcons' resurgence, with an impressive career total of 4,238 passing yards and 49 passing touchdowns. Additionally, sophomore talents Bobby Parraz and Onsurez have displayed their skills on offense. Parraz has contributed 796 rushing yards and 6 rushing touchdowns, while Tristen Onsurez has showcased his receiving prowess with 417 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns. Senior Giovanno Ruiz has also made his mark with 315 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. On the defensive side, the Falcons have seen significant improvement, allowing only an average of 17.3 points per game. Three senior defenders—Edgar Zacarias, Eduardo De La Cruz, and Ksyiah Lujan—have been instrumental in anchoring this improved defense. Lujan leads the team with 60 total tackles, while De La Cruz has contributed 54 tackles, and Zacarias has recorded 37 tackles this season. With their impressive progress and a well-rounded team, the Falcons are a force to be reckoned with in the postseason.
No. 7 Estancia Bears
Record: 4-6 overall, 2-1 in district play (2nd)
Points For: 317 (averaging 31.7 points per game)
Points Against: 384 (38.4 on average)
Preview: The Estancia Bears have fearlessly tackled a challenging schedule, with their six losses coming against formidable opponents such as Texico (the 2-seed in 2A), Eunice (the 1-seed in 2A), Socorro (a top team in 3A with an 8-2 record), Hatch Valley (5-5 record in 3A football), and Tularosa (7-3 and the 5-seed in 2A). The Bears have leaned on the exceptional talents of running back Joshua Calhoon (2024), who has amassed an impressive 2,216 rushing yards and contributed 24 rushing touchdowns this season. Calhoon's versatility is evident with an additional 350 passing yards and 3 passing touchdowns. Senior Pablo Regalado bolsters the rushing game with 606 yards and 7 touchdowns to his name. On the defensive front, senior Edward Lucero has led the charge with 62 total tackles (30 solo). Despite their challenging schedule, the Bears are ready to make a statement in the postseason.
No. 8 The Escalante Lobos
Record: 4-6 overall, 2-1 in district play (2nd)
Points For: 287 (averaging 28.7 points per game)
Points Against: 303 (30.3 on average)
Preview: The Escalante Lobos secured a spot in the postseason by finishing the regular season with a 2-1 district record. The Lobos faced a challenging schedule, squaring off against formidable opponents such as West Las Vegas (a top-4 seed in 3A), Espanola Valley (a top-8 seed in 4A football), Raton (another top team in 3A), and 2A playoff contenders like Estancia, Tularosa, and Santa Rosa. Senior Trey Archuleta has been the driving force for the Lobos, accumulating an impressive 1,392 rushing yards and 685 passing yards this season. Archuleta's versatility shines through as he contributed to 28 total touchdowns, with 22 of them being rushing touchdowns. The Lobos have faced adversity and are primed for an exciting postseason.
PREVIEWS
No. 1 Eunice Cardinals vs No. 8 Escalante Lobos
Eunice Cardinals and the Escalante Lobos are set to face off in a high-stakes matchup. With both teams displaying strengths in different aspects of their game, this contest has all the makings of a thrilling battle on the gridiron.
Keys to the Game:
Eunice Cardinals:
- Air Attack vs. Ground Dominance: The Cardinals have showcased a balanced offensive approach, with an impressive 198 passing yards per game. To gain an edge, Eunice should continue to rely on the arm of quarterback Elijah Melancon and the receiving prowess of their playmakers. Aerial efficiency will be a key to breaking through the Lobos' defensive line.
- Defensive Prowess: Eunice's defense has been robust, allowing just 19.9 points per game on average. They must continue their disciplined play and contain the Lobos' ground game. Key defensive players like Luis Gomez, Jacob Ortega, and Brady Colborn will play a pivotal role in maintaining their defensive solidity.
- Ground Assault: The Lobos have established themselves as a force on the ground, averaging 211 rushing yards per game. They should exploit this advantage and look to control the clock by sustaining successful rushing drives. Trey Archuleta's performance will be critical in this aspect.
- Defensive Resilience: Escalante needs to step up on the defensive front to limit Eunice's well-rounded offense. Slowing down Melancon's passing game and disrupting their opponents' offensive rhythm will be vital to their success.
This matchup presents an intriguing contrast of styles, with the Cardinals' balanced offense going up against the Lobos' potent ground game. Eunice's ability to maintain their passing attack and their sturdy defense gives them a slight edge in this contest. Expect a closely contested battle, but the Eunice Cardinals are favored to secure the victory due to their versatility and defensive prowess. Eunice wins 48-21.
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No. 2 Texico Wolverines vs No. 7 Estancia Bears
In a highly anticipated rematch, the Texico Wolverines and the Estancia Bears are set to clash once more, and this time, it's in the high-stakes arena of the postseason. The Wolverines and Bears previously met on opening night, with Texico emerging victorious in a 52-22 victory. Now, Estancia seeks redemption, and Texico aims to maintain its dominance.
Keys to the Game:
Texico Wolverines:
- Dominant Offensive Line: Texico's big and powerful offensive line has been a force to be reckoned with throughout the season. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage will be a key factor in this matchup. If they can provide adequate protection for quarterback Cade Figg and open running lanes for Alex Fuentes, it could be a long night for the Bears' defense.
- Cade Figg and Alex Fuentes: Figg and Fuentes are the dynamic duo that drives Texico's offense. Figg, the quarterback, has been consistently outstanding, while Fuentes has displayed his exceptional rushing abilities with a remarkable 311-yard performance earlier in the season. These two playmakers will be the focal point of the Wolverines' offensive strategy.
- History of Upsets: Estancia has a history of upsetting top teams, and they'll need to channel that underdog spirit to overcome the overwhelming favorite. Drawing inspiration from their past successes and maintaining their belief in victory will be crucial.
- Defensive Adaptation: The Bears will need to make defensive adjustments to contain the potent Texico offense. Finding ways to disrupt Figg's passing game and limit Fuentes on the ground will be imperative. Creating turnovers and capitalizing on Texico mistakes could be a game-changer for Estancia.
While Estancia has a reputation for defying expectations, Texico's offensive firepower, bolstered by Cade Figg and Alex Fuentes, makes them the favorite in this rematch. The Wolverines' dominant offensive line will create opportunities, and their strong defense will pose challenges for the Bears. Estancia has a fighting spirit, but Texico's well-rounded and talented roster gives them the upper hand. Texico is the favorite to win, and they do so convincingly, securing a 35-14 victory and advancing in the postseason.
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No. 3 Santa Rosa Lions vs No. 6 Loving Falcons
In a highly anticipated clash of contrasting offensive styles, the No. 3 Santa Rosa Lions face off against the No. 6 Loving Falcons in the quarterfinals. This marks the first meeting of the season between these two teams, and both are poised for a fierce battle.
Keys to the Game:
Santa Rosa Lions:
- Ground Dominance: The Lions have been an absolute juggernaut on the ground, averaging a staggering 366 rushing yards per game. To secure victory, they must continue to establish their dominance in the running game. Seniors Nicholas Chavez and Jykub Gage have been a dynamic duo, and their ability to break through Loving's defense will be crucial.
- Ball Control: With their potent rushing attack, the Lions have excelled in ball control, which can be a significant advantage in a playoff game. Maintaining long, time-consuming drives and limiting Loving's possessions will work in Santa Rosa's favor.
- Balanced Offense: The Falcons boast a more balanced offensive approach, with 170 passing yards per game complementing their 130 rushing yards. They need to exploit the Lions' defense by keeping them guessing and not becoming one-dimensional. Quarterback Kaleb Rodriguez's experience will be pivotal.
- Defensive Adaptation: Learning from their previous encounter in the 2022 playoffs, where they suffered a 56-13 loss, the Falcons must make defensive adjustments. They need to limit Santa Rosa's ground game and find ways to disrupt their offensive rhythm. Creating turnovers and capitalizing on them will be essential.
In this quarterfinal matchup, the Lions and Falcons bring contrasting offensive styles to the gridiron. Santa Rosa's ground dominance and ball control will certainly present a challenge for Loving. However, with the Falcons' balanced offensive approach and the lessons learned from their previous meeting, they have the potential to make this a competitive contest. In the end, though, the Lions' overwhelming rushing attack, combined with their playoff experience and a prior victory over Loving in the playoffs, gives them the edge. Santa Rosa prevails with a final score of 35-21, securing their place in the semifinals
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No. 4 Tularosa Wildcats vs No. 5 Jal Panthers
Get ready for an exhilarating showdown in New Mexico's high school 2A football as the No. 4 Jal Panthers and the No. 5 Tularosa Wildcats prepare to go head-to-head in a high-stakes quarterfinal clash. With both teams showcasing distinct strengths in their playing styles, this game promises to be an intense and thrilling battle on the gridiron.
Keys to the Game:
Jal Panthers:
- Ground Dominance: The Panthers have distinguished themselves with an overwhelmingly dominant ground game, where rushing plays constitute the majority of their offensive strategies. To gain an advantage, Jal should continue to rely on their relentless and multifaceted rushing attack. However, they must also be prepared to adapt to Tularosa's defensive strategies designed to counter their ground dominance.
- Versatile Defensive Play: Jal's defense has been solid throughout the season, with an average of 23.3 points allowed per game. They need to maintain their defensive discipline and readiness to defend against Tularosa's well-balanced offensive approach, which includes both passing and rushing plays. Key defensive players such as Brandon Houston and Cash Taylor will play a pivotal role in this aspect.
- Balanced Offense vs. Ground Dominance: The Wildcats enter this game with a diverse offensive approach, guided by their standout quarterback-wide receiver duo. This balanced offensive style allows them to adapt to the challenges presented by Jal's ground dominance. Tularosa should exploit their ability to switch between passing and rushing plays to keep the Panthers' defense guessing.
- Sturdy Offensive Line: Tularosa boasts a robust offensive line, critical in both protecting their quarterback and creating clear running lanes for their rushing game. This line's performance will be instrumental in countering Jal's relentless ground attack.
This quarterfinal matchup promises a fascinating contest between Jal's ground dominance and Tularosa's versatile offense. While Jal is known for their unrelenting rushing plays, the Wildcats' well-balanced approach offers them the flexibility to challenge their opponents. In what is expected to be a closely contested battle, the Tularosa Wildcats, fueled by their redemption quest and dynamic offensive strategy, have the edge in this clash. Tularosa Wildcats secure a thrilling quarterfinal victory, with a final score of 28-21, as they advance to the next round, showcasing their renewed team and well-balanced offensive approach.
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