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Feature Week 10: New Mexico High School Football Thursday Night Preview

J Grine

NMPreps Hall Of Fame
Staff
Oct 31, 2010
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Week 10: New Mexico High School Football Thursday Night Preview

Thursday night's New Mexico high school football matchups promise to deliver exciting action, with teams vying for playoff positions and individual players making their mark on the field. Football fans won't want to miss these thrilling games.

Carlsbad (2-6) at Las Cruces (4-4) - Thursday, 7 pm - 6A Football

In this District 3-6A showdown, the Las Cruces Bulldawgs find themselves tied for first place at 3-0 in district play. with Centennial. On the other side, Carlsbad is a bubble team in the 6A playoff race, standing at 1-2 in district play. Keep an eye on Las Cruces High rising star Daniel Amaro (2026), a sophomore sensation who rushed for an impressive 207 yards on just 11 carries against Organ Mountain. While Las Cruces is favored by two touchdowns, don't count out Carlsbad's standout running back, Ulysses Mendoza (2024), who's having a phenomenal season and could pose a significant threat in an upset bid.

Chaparral (0-7) at Deming (5-3) - Thursday, 7 pm - 5A Football

This game may see the mercy rule come into effect as Deming, with a 5-3 overall record and 1-0 in district play, takes on the winless Chaparral Lobos at 0-7 overall and 0-1 in district play. The Lobos are grappling with a daunting 39-game losing streak that dates back to 2018. Expect Deming's QB, Ryan Alfaro, to score early and efficiently before giving younger players valuable experience.

Del Norte (1-7) at Manzano (1-7) - Thursday, 7 pm - 5A Football

Both Del Norte and Manzano have 1-7 records, but the context differs. Del Norte appears to be a few years away from being competitive in 5A football, while Manzano has shown potential for a breakout season despite a challenging schedule. Manzano still has a shot at a playoff bid if they secure a win in this final District 2-5A game. Keep an eye on James Vautier (2025), who's had a productive season with 775 passing yards and 8 passing touchdowns for the Monarchs.

Los Alamos (7-1) at Valley (5-3) - Thursday, 7 pm - 5A Football

This Thursday night matchup will decide the District 2-5A championship and likely secure a 5-8 seed for the winner, granting them a home game in the first round of the playoffs. Key players to watch include Niko Garcia (2024) for Los Alamos and Charles Lopez-Burton (2024) for Valley, both of whom are strong contenders for All-New Mexico honors.

Hot Springs (3-5) at Cobre (5-2) - Thursday, 7 pm - 3A Football

Cobre is coming off a significant upset against Socorro, which catapulted them to the top of the District 3-3A standings. Hot Springs, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back after a district-opening loss to Hatch Valley last week. This game is crucial for both teams as they aim to navigate the rest of the district play successfully.

Magdalena (2-6) at Alamo Navajo (0-7) - Thursday, 5 pm - 8-Man/6-Man

Both Magdalena and Alamo Navajo are seeking their first district win after starting 0-2 in District 2 (8-Man). Keep an eye on Magdalena's 6-foot-2 middle linebacker Krae Stephens, who's a force on defense and a reliable target at tight end.

Roy/Mosquero (8-0) at New Mexico School of the Deaf (3-2) - Thursday, 3 pm - 8-Man/6-Man

Undefeated Roy/Mosquero looks to secure the district championship and finish the season with a perfect 9-0 record. Players to watch include Ayden Clavel (2025) and Brycen Barnes (2027), who are sure to receive season accolades for 8-Man football. Clavel has passed for 1,154 yards and 21 passing touchdowns, while Barnes has 730 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns. Additionally, Jackson Fudge (2025) has contributed with 796 receiving yards and 15 receiving touchdowns.
 
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