3A Quarterfinals - Rundown, Predictions, & Bracket
The 2021 New Mexico high school football quarterfinals will take place this weekend. Today, we breakdown what to watch and why. #nmpreps
(1) Raton vs (8) Hope Christian
Why: Both teams feature next level talent and could provide you with that playoff feel to it. James Jenkins (2022/ATH) is a must-see prospect in New Mexico with plenty of potential and looks to guide the Hope Christian Huskies (7-4) this Saturday. Jenkins has 1515 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns to add to 648 passing yards and 7 passing touchdowns. What's not to love about the Raton Tigers (10-0) and their three-headed monster in Dylan Quartieri (2022/QB), Cayden Walton (2023/RB), and Matthew Quartieri (2022/WR).
Prediction: Raton 36, Hope Christian 27
(2) Socorro vs (10) Dexter
Why: The Socorro Warriors (9-1) have continued were they left off last season with as a state champion contender. Senior running back Jordan Armijo has been a force all season and is the player that make the Warriors move. Bringing the power for the visiting Dexter Demons (5-5) is senior back Juan Fuentes who has gone over the 1,000 rushing yard mark. He also reached the end zone 16 times this season.
Prediction: Socorro 42, Dexter 28
(3) Robertson vs (6) West Las Vegas
Why: Well, for starters you can head over to Charlies for breakfast and then get to Robertson field for a 12pm kick-off between the crosstown rivals. The famous red or green question (I went x-mas at Charlies every breakfast) will be answered with a chance at the semifinals on the line. West Las Vegas brings the duo of Damian Gallegos (2022/RB) and CJ Perea (2024/QB). Robertson has defender Ace Gonzalez (2023) and ATH Matthew Gonzales (2022). Robertson took the first game between the two 40-27 but this one should provide the viewer with everything about November football.
Prediction: Robertson 34, West Las Vegas 30
(4) St. Michael's vs (5) New Mexico Military
Why: We get the only true south team taking on the north team. Both teams bring plenty of excitement and looking to make that playoff run for a possible state championship. The visiting Colts will look to junior quarterback Juan Badillo who is coming off a solid first round performance passing for 173-yards in the win over Thoreau. The Horsemen have had an intriguing season and enter the contest on a 2-game losing streak but those losses to No. 3 Robertson and No. 1 Raton should prove how tough the slate has been. This season also includes a win over No. 2 Socorro.
Prediction: St. Mike's 21, NMMI 20
