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Feature **2023 New Mexico High School Football 6A First Round State Preview**

J Grine

NMPreps Hall Of Fame
Staff
Oct 31, 2010
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Rio Rancho
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2023 New Mexico High School Football 6A First Round State Preview

No. 5 Rio Rancho Rams
Record:
7-3 overall, 3-1 District 1-6A
Points For: 259
Points Against: 206
Head Coach: Nate Pino
Preview: The Rio Rancho Rams wrapped up the regular season with a solid 7-3 overall record, including a 3-1 performance in District 1-6A. Their journey began with a strong 2-0 start, marked by a 40-26 victory over Eldorado and a forfeit win over La Cueva. Despite a setback against Eastlake, Texas, where they fell 35-7, the Rams swiftly rebounded with a convincing 34-7 road win against Organ Mountain in Las Cruces.

In a mid-September clash with the Hobbs Eagles, the Rams, due to an electricity outage, played at their crosstown rival Cleveland's field and suffered an unexpected upset, falling 24-21. Rio Rancho quickly regrouped, embarking on an impressive four-game winning streak. Their victories included triumphs over Farmington, Atrisco Heritage, Cibola, and Volcano Vista, with the latter three games played in district. The regular season concluded with a challenging loss in the District 1-6A Championship to top seed Cleveland, ending in a 37-0 final.

The Rams' offense has been a well-rounded effort, with key contributors like running bck Rayce Ramirez (2024), receiver Anthony Raymer, and quarterbacks JJ Arellano (2025) and Noah Nelson (2024) sharing time under center. Arellano has had a standout season, amassing 1,306 passing yards, along with 204 rushing yards, and totaling 18 touchdowns. Ramirez has provided 856 rushing yards and contributed seven touchdowns, while Raymer has been a crucial target with 662 receiving yards and an impressive 12 receiving touchdowns.

On the defensive side of the ball, Andrew Gustafson (2024) and Jacob Lesperance (2025) have been the defensive leaders for the Rams. Gustafson has had a standout season with an impressive 90 total tackles (59 solo) to his name. Quinten McKinley (2026) has also shined in the secondary with three interceptions during the season.

As the Rio Rancho Rams enter the state playoffs, they bring a balanced and determined team, showcasing a potent offense and a strong defensive core. With their experience and skillset, they aim to make a deep run in the postseason and compete for the championship.

No. 6 Volcano Vista Hawks
Record:
7-3 overall, 2-2 District 1-6A
Points Scored: 293
Points Allowed: 197
Head Coach: Chad Wallin
Preview: The Volcano Vista Hawks commenced the season with an impressive three-game win streak, notching victories against Las Cruces, West Mesa, and Carlsbad. Though they faced a setback against La Cueva, the Hawks rebounded with consecutive wins over Sandia and Eldorado before entering district play. With a 5-1 record, they encountered a district-opening loss to Cleveland (35-12) but regained their form with a win against Cibola. A challenging loss to Rio Rancho was followed by a strong finish, defeating Atrisco Heritage.

The Hawks' offensive prowess has been driven by senior RB Alijah “A-Train” Gonzales, who has been a standout player this season. Gonzales has amassed an impressive 1,556 rushing yards and recorded 15 rushing touchdowns, all against a formidable schedule of top-ranked teams. Junior quarterback Ilijah Hansen quietly delivered a solid season with 1,138 passing yards and 15 passing touchdowns. He also contributed 331 rushing yards and 6 rushing touchdowns.

In the receiving corps, seniors Aden Cardiel, Tyler Stuart, and Devin Banks have led the way. Cardiel boasts a team-high 380 receiving yards, with six different receivers totaling over 100 receiving yards throughout the season.

On the defensive front, Jace Anderson, Kian VanderWilt, Adam Jaramillo, and Hunter Martinez have been vital contributors. Anderson topped the team with 64 total tackles, while Jaramillo led the Hawks with a team-high 3 sacks. The Volcano Vista Hawks are well-prepared for the playoffs, with a combination of offensive and defensive firepower.

No. 7 Las Cruces Bulldawgs
Record:
5-5 overall, 4-1 District 3-6A
Points Scored: 309
Points Allowed: 264
Head Coach: Mark Lopez
Preview: The Las Cruces Bulldawgs faced a tough start to their 2023 season, with four consecutive losses against formidable opponents, including Volcano Vista, Americas (Texas), Eastwood (Texas), and Cleveland. These teams boasted impressive records, making it a challenging beginning for a team in the rebuilding phase following a 2-7 season in 2022.

However, the Bulldawgs demonstrated resilience and determination, rebounding from a 0-4 start with a remarkable five-game winning streak. The turning point came with a resounding 44-7 victory over crosstown rivals, Mayfield, providing the team with the confidence and momentum they needed. Their strong finish led to a showdown with Centennial for the District 3-A championship, where they narrowly fell 30-23.

The heart of Las Cruces' rebuilding efforts lies in their young talent, particularly with sophomore quarterback Gunnar Guardiola, who has amassed 1,619 passing yards and 14 touchdowns this season. Another standout is sophomore Daniel Amaro, who delivered a stellar performance in the District 3-6A championship game against Centennial. Additionally, junior Kelley Stevens, a 6-foot-3 quarterback, is a promising prospect to watch this postseason, offering a bright future for the Bulldawgs' offense. Nate Libby, a 6-foot-3 junior receiver, is another exciting player with significant potential for the team in the coming years. Las Cruces is a team on the rise, and they're poised to make an impact in the playoffs.

No. 8 Hobbs Eagles
Record:
5-5 overall, 3-2 District 3-6A
Points Scored: 283
Points Allowed: 247
Head Coach: Ken Stevens
Preview: The Hobbs Eagles' football program, traditionally known for their basketball dominance, continues to strive for top-tier recognition in 6A football. Each season, the Eagles find themselves on the verge of a breakthrough. Their journey in 2023 featured a promising opening night victory over rival Clovis, a team they are set to face in the first round of the playoffs.

However, three losses in a challenging three-game stretch followed, as the Eagles faced regional rivals Artesia, Roswell, and Lovington, with both Roswell and Lovington earning the 1-seed in their respective brackets. An impressive upset win against Rio Rancho provided a glimmer of hope before a two-game skid in District 3-6A play against Centennial and Las Cruces. Nevertheless, the Eagles secured a playoff spot with crucial victories over Organ Mountain and Carlsbad, finishing district play at 3-2 and capping their regular season at 5-5.

Senior quarterback Owen Callaway had a solid season, amassing 1,168 passing yards and connecting for 10 passing touchdowns. Seth Armendariz, a senior running back, was a force in the backfield, rushing for 953 yards and amassing an impressive 12 rushing touchdowns, including breaking a school record during the season. The receiving corps featured talent like D’Shawn Franklin, a junior, and seniors Jeremiah Jaquez and Justin Black. Jaquez led the way with 730 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.

On the defensive front, Zaeden McPherson (2024) and juniors Tristan Davis and Gustavo Diaz-Castro have excelled for the Eagles. Davis was particularly outstanding, finishing the regular season with an impressive 113 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks. Diaz-Castro contributed with a pair of interceptions, further bolstering the team's defensive capabilities, while Javen Hernandez also made an impact from the secondary.

No. 9 Clovis Wildcats
Record:
5-5 overall, 4-0 District 4-6A
Points Scored: 308
Points Allowed: 374
Head Coach: Andrew McCraw
Preview: The Clovis Wildcats, under the guidance of second-year head coach Andrew McCraw, have taken a significant step forward in their football program. McCraw inherited a team that had a 3-7 record, leading to a 3-7 first-year performance. However, the 2023 season saw a remarkable turnaround, with the Wildcats securing the District 4-6A Championship on the final night of the regular season.

The Wildcats faced a challenging non-district schedule, resulting in a 1-5 record. Their non-district opponents included formidable teams such as Hobbs, Canyon (Texas), Randall (Texas), Roswell, and Eldorado. The lone non-district victory came against Carlsbad, showcasing the Wildcats' ability to compete with high-caliber teams. Notably, Hobbs, a fellow playoff team, secured the 8-seed, while Roswell claimed the 1-seed, emphasizing the difficulty of the Wildcats' schedule. Canyon (7-2) and Randall (6-4) also enjoyed successful seasons.

In District 4-6A, the Wildcats found their rhythm, concluding the season with a remarkable 4-game winning streak to finish with a 5-5 overall record. A significant part of their success can be attributed to the dynamic senior duo of Kash Roberts and Jett Stone. Roberts showcased his abilities by amassing 1,149 rushing yards and contributing 14 rushing touchdowns in just 9 games this season. Stone was close behind, accumulating 1,103 rushing yards and an impressive 18 rushing touchdowns. Stone, a versatile athlete, also added 184 passing yards and 182 receiving yards, further showcasing his all-around skills. He passed for 2 touchdowns and caught 3, resulting in a total of 23 touchdowns.

Contributions from underclassmen, such as Javier Jimenez (2027) and John Royal (2026), played a vital role in the team's offensive success this season. Jimenez, a freshman, made significant contributions and finished the season with 65 total tackles. Kohen Matus, a senior, led the team in total tackles with 90. Kash Roberts, a talented two-way player, added 58 total tackles to his impressive season. Additionally, sophomore John Royal contributed to the defense with 5 sacks, and Jett Stone showcased his versatility with 2 interceptions for 78 interception yards.

With their District 4-6A Championship in hand, the Clovis Wildcats enter the playoffs with a newfound sense of confidence. Their potent offensive duo and a young, enthusiastic defense make them a team to watch in the postseason. The Wildcats are poised to build on their successes and make a significant impact in the playoffs.

No. 10 Los Lunas Tigers
Record:
7-3 overall, 3-1 District 4-6A
Points Scored: 403
Points Allowed: 164
Head Coach: Greg Henington
Preview: The Los Lunas Tigers launched their season with impressive victories over Belen, Alamogordo, and Farmington, outscoring their opponents by a combined score of 132 to 35. However, they faced back-to-back challenges with losses to Roswell and La Cueva, ending their non-district slate with a win against Valley, concluding at 4-2 before entering district play.

In district matchups, the Tigers extended their winning streak to four games by comfortably defeating Capital, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe. Their district title hopes were dashed by a close 30-29 loss to Clovis in the District 4-6A Championship.

The Tigers boast key offensive players, including Damacio Kaneshiro (2024), Emi De La Torre (2025), Kaiden Reese (2026), and Jordan Howard (2025). Kaneshiro, the quarterback, passed for 1,077 yards and 12 touchdowns this season, while De La Torre led the ground attack with 580 yards and 11 touchdowns. Reese and Howard each contributed over 300 yards. Senior receivers Fabian Trujillo and Ethan Olguin were pivotal for the Tigers, amassing 752 receiving yards and 658 receiving yards, respectively.

On the defensive front, Gage Marquez (2025) and Ernie Gonzales (2024) lead the charge. Gonzales accumulated 108 total tackles and an interception, while Marquez finished with 93 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions. Defensive backs Jason Ussery (2024), three interceptions, and Robert Perea (2024), four sacks, respectively, with Bryce Norine (2024) adding four sacks to bolster the Tigers' defensive strength. With a well-rounded team, the Tigers are poised to make an impact in the postseason.

No. 11 Farmington Scorpions
Record:
5-5 overall, 1-3 District 2-6A
Points Scored: 371
Points Allowed: 264
Head Coach: Jeff Dalton
Preview: The Farmington Scorpions embarked on the season with a strong 2-0 start, securing wins over rival Piedra Vista and Durango, Colorado. Although they faced a loss to Los Lunas, they rebounded to a 4-1 record by defeating Albuquerque and Cibola. Their non-district schedule ended with a loss to Rio Rancho, leaving the Scorpions at 4-2 entering district play.

Trel Griego has been a standout for the Scorpions this season. The senior quarterback showcased his skills, passing for an impressive 2,751 yards and 30 touchdowns. Griego also contributed on the ground, rushing for 379 yards and 11 touchdowns, amassing a total of 41 touchdowns.

In the receiving corps, juniors Jace Vigil, Michael Beck, and Cayden Haliburton each exceeded 500 yards this season. Beck led the way with 862 receiving yards and recorded 12 receiving touchdowns.

On the defensive front, Alex Serrano (2025) stood out with 4 interceptions, while Isaac Foutz (2024) totaled 49 tackles and Ian Fishbaun (2024) contributed with 46 total tackles. Sophomore Danny Hagstrom made an impact with 43 total tackles, including an impressive 12 tackles for loss.

No. 12 West Mesa Mustangs
Record:
6-4 overall, 1-3 District 2-6A
Points For: 376
Points Against: 286
Head Coach: Landrick Brody
Preview: In his second season at the helm, Head Coach Landrick Brody has steered the West Mesa Mustangs into the playoffs, marking a significant improvement after missing the playoffs in 2022 with a 5-5 overall record. Their season began with an emphatic 42-6 victory on the road against Santa Fe High, setting the tone for a promising start. A subsequent loss to Volcano Vista (29-14) served as a catalyst for a three-game winning streak over Cibola, Albuquerque, and Atrisco Heritage.

However, the Mustangs encountered a challenging three-game losing streak against Sandia, Farmington, and La Cueva to open District 2-6A play, with playoff hopes appearing dim. The team bounced back with a resounding 57-0 win over Rio Grande, and their season was capped off with a decisive 39-21 victory over Eldorado Eagles, which also kept the Eagles out of this year's state playoffs.

The standout player for the Mustangs is none other than top-five prospect Elijah Brody (2024). Brody had a remarkable regular season, accumulating 1,456 passing yards, along with an astonishing 1,602 rushing yards, and a total of 40 touchdowns (24 of which were rushing). Running backs Marcus Sharp (2024) and Marcos Ochoa (2026) have provided invaluable contributions in the backfield, combining for over 900 rushing yards and ten touchdowns this season. Ricky Martinez (2024) and Ochoa became top receiving targets for the Mustangs, with Martinez leading the way, amassing 450 receiving yards and an impressive nine touchdowns.

On the defensive side of the ball, seniors Vences Caraveo and Mark Montano have been instrumental, amassing 71 and 61 total tackles, respectively. Fabian Thompson (2024) and Sajon Thompson (2025) have been essential in the secondary, demonstrating a penchant for intercepting passes.

With their dynamic offense led by Elijah Brody and a rejuvenated spirit following a playoff berth, the West Mesa Mustangs enter the state playoffs with optimism and determination. They are looking to build on their regular-season successes and make a significant impact on the postseason stage.

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Game Preview: No. 5 Rio Rancho vs. No. 12 West Mesa

In a highly anticipated first meeting between these two teams this season, No. 5 Rio Rancho takes on No. 12 West Mesa. Both teams come into this clash with talented running games, but the matchup is highlighted by the X-factor, Elijah Brody, for West Mesa. Here's a brief preview of this exciting encounter:

Keys for Rio Rancho:
  1. Balanced Offensive Attack: Rio Rancho's strength lies in its balanced offensive approach. They need to effectively utilize their running and passing game to keep West Mesa's defense guessing. A variety of offensive options can put pressure on West Mesa.
  2. Defensive Resilience: Rio Rancho's defense should focus on containing the dynamic Brody and West Mesa's run-heavy offense. Stopping the run and forcing West Mesa into passing situations will be key to their success.
Keys for West Mesa:
  1. Elijah Brody's Dominance: West Mesa's X-factor, Elijah Brody, must have a standout performance. Brody's dual-threat capabilities as a rusher and passer can be a game-changer, and West Mesa should lean on his skills to create offensive opportunities.
  2. Defensive Playmakers: West Mesa's defense needs to create turnovers and disrupt Rio Rancho's offensive rhythm. Key interceptions or fumble recoveries can swing the game in their favor.
Prediction:

In a closely contested battle, the prediction is a 28-24 victory for Rio Rancho. While West Mesa possesses a unique weapon in Elijah Brody, Rio Rancho's balanced offensive attack and solid defensive play can give them the edge. The game is expected to be competitive, but Rio Rancho's experience and overall team cohesion give them the advantage in what promises to be a thrilling matchup.

Game Preview: No. 6 Volcano Vista vs. No. 11 Farmington

In this exciting first-round matchup, the No. 6 seed Volcano Vista Hawks take on the No. 11 seed Farmington Scorpions. Both teams have had solid seasons, and this clash promises to be a thrilling contest.

Keys for Volcano Vista:
  1. A-Train's Dominance: Volcano Vista should continue to rely on their star running back, Alijah “A-Train” Gonzales. He's been a workhorse for the Hawks, and his ability to break through Farmington's defense will be key to their success.
  2. Defense Holds Strong: The Hawks need their defense to step up and control Farmington's offense. If they can create turnovers and prevent big plays, it will significantly bolster their chances.
Keys for Farmington:
  1. Griego's Air Assault: Farmington's quarterback, Trel Griego, has shown impressive passing skills throughout the season. The Scorpions should utilize his arm to challenge Volcano Vista's defense and keep them guessing.
  2. Contain Alijah Gonzales: Farmington's defense needs to focus on containing Alijah Gonzales. If they can limit his impact, it will disrupt Volcano Vista's offensive rhythm.
Prediction: This game promises to be a hard-fought battle, but Volcano Vista's balanced offense and strong defense give them the edge. We predict a close victory for Volcano Vista with a final score of 26-24. Alijah Gonzales and the Hawks' defense will prove to be the deciding factors in this matchup.

Game Preview: No. 7 Las Cruces vs. No. 10 Los Lunas

In this intriguing matchup between No. 7 Las Cruces and No. 10 Los Lunas, the Bulldawgs are looking to continue their late-season resurgence against a talented Los Lunas squad. Here are two keys for each team:

Las Cruces Keys:
  1. Capitalizing on Sophomore Talent: Las Cruces has relied on talented sophomore quarterback Gunnar Guardiola and other young players this season. The key for the Bulldawgs will be to keep the offense well-balanced and utilize their young stars effectively.
  2. Strong Defensive Performance: To secure the win, Las Cruces must maintain a solid defensive effort, limiting Los Lunas' offensive productivity. The Bulldawgs need to create turnovers and put pressure on Los Lunas' quarterback.
Los Lunas Keys:
  1. Establishing the Ground Game: Los Lunas has shown strength in the rushing attack this season, and they should look to capitalize on their running backs, including QB Damacio Kaneshiro and Emi De La Torre. Consistent ground gains will help control the game's tempo.
  2. Solid Defensive Play: Los Lunas needs to maintain a strong defensive presence to counter Las Cruces' offensive potential. Creating turnovers and getting to the opposing quarterback will be crucial for Los Lunas.
Prediction: In a closely contested battle, Los Lunas emerges with a 27-24 victory. Their ability to establish the ground game and maintain a sturdy defensive performance will tip the scales in their favor.

Game Preview: No. 8 Hobbs vs. No. 9 Clovis

In a highly anticipated matchup, No. 8 Hobbs takes on No. 9 Clovis, two teams that have displayed resilience and growth throughout the season. Here's a brief preview of this exciting encounter:

Keys for Hobbs:
  1. Defensive Tenacity: Hobbs' defense needs to step up to contain Clovis' dynamic offensive duo of Kash Roberts and Jett Stone. Limiting their big plays and forcing turnovers will be crucial.
  2. Balanced Offense: Hobbs should strive for a balanced offensive approach, utilizing both the passing game of quarterback Owen Callaway and the rushing attack of Seth Armendariz. Mixing up plays and keeping the Clovis defense guessing can be an advantage.
Keys for Clovis:
  1. Dynamic Offensive Duo: Clovis should lean on the talents of Kash Roberts and Jett Stone, who have been consistent playmakers all season. Creating opportunities for them to shine and make big plays will be essential.
  2. Youthful Defensive Energy: The young defensive contributors, including freshman Javier Jimenez and sophomore John Royal, need to step up and make plays. The Clovis defense should aim to disrupt Hobbs' offensive rhythm and create turnovers.
Score Prediction and Why:

Hobbs is expected to secure a 41-21 victory in this matchup. Both teams have shown growth and determination throughout the season, making this a highly competitive game. Hobbs' balanced offense, led by quarterback Owen Callaway and the relentless defensive effort, is likely to give them an edge. While Clovis boasts a dynamic offensive duo, Hobbs' consistent play and strong defensive performance could secure them a decisive win in this contest.
 
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