Best/Worst Case Scenario: Pojoaque Valley Elks
Today, NMPreps releases out best and worst case scenario for every team leading up to the 2024 New Mexico high school football season.2024 SCHEDULE
| August 23rd | vs Crownpoint | Green: Favorite |
| August 30th | vs Hot Springs | Green: Favorite |
| September 6th | vs Los Alamos | Red: Underdog |
| September 13th | at Dexter | Christmas: Coin Flip Game |
| September 20th | vs Hozho Academy | Green: Favorite |
| October 4th | at Robertson | Red: Underdog |
| October 11th | vs Hope Christian | Red: Underdog |
| October 18th | at Santa Fe Indian | Green: Favorite |
| October 25th | vs St. Michael's | Red: Underdog |
| November 1st | at West Las Vegas | Red: Underdog |
Best Case Scenario (5-5 overall, 0-4 district)
The Pojoaque Valley Elks kick off their season with a favorable schedule, starting with three home games. The first two matches against Crownpoint and Hot Springs, labeled as "Green" games, present opportunities for decisive victories. These wins would build early momentum and confidence for the team. Additionally, the Elks face Hozho Academy and Santa Fe Indian, teams ranked 89th and 84th respectively in NMPreps' 2024 preseason rankings. Success in these games could set a positive tone for the season.In the best case scenario, the Elks leverage their returning talent and high participation numbers to outperform expectations. They secure victories in their green games, navigate their "Christmas Game" against Dexter Demons with a hard-fought win on the road, and they could reach .500. This could lead to a strong regular season record, potentially earning them a 10-12 seed in the playoffs. With the right momentum and team cohesion, they might even advance past the first round.
Worst Case Scenario (4-6 overall, 0-4 district)
On the other hand, the worst case scenario for the Pojoaque Valley Elks involves struggles in their tougher matchups. Despite the optimism, the team might face challenges transitioning to 3A football. The non-district game against Los Alamos, marked as a "Red" game, could see their first setback of the season.The Elks' entry into the highly competitive District 2-3A presents significant hurdles. Defending state champion St. Michael's Horsemen, state runner-up Robertson Cardinals, and strong teams like West Las Vegas and Hope Christian (also transitioning from 4A) make the district slate incredibly challenging. If the Elks go 0-4 in district play as predicted, their confidence might take a hit.
Even with high participation and returning talent, the Elks could face a scenario where they miss the playoffs, the Dexter game is important.
Final Thoughts (Over/Under 4.5 wins)
The Pojoaque Valley Elks are poised for a season of growth and potential breakthroughs. With a mix of favorable and challenging games, their performance in the 2024 season will hinge on how well they capitalize on early opportunities and handle the pressure of a tough district. Whether they achieve their best case scenario or face the struggles of their worst case, the Elks are set to make significant strides as they navigate the transition from 4A to 3A football.Please submit your schedule here: 2024 Schedule Release
