Weekend Gridiron Action: 5A Football Week 9 Preview
As we step into Week 9 of the New Mexico high school football season, anticipation and excitement are running high. Several games are poised to be epic battles, and we've got a tantalizing preview for you.
NMPreps.com's Joshua Grine previews every game this week in 5A football.
Artesia Bulldogs (7-0) at Roswell Coyotes (7-0) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Epic Showdown: Get ready for a Friday night clash of the titans as two undefeated 5A powerhouses face off in what promises to be an electrifying high school football showdown. It's a battle of the top dogs, as the No. 1 Artesia Bulldogs take on the second-ranked Roswell Coyotes at the iconic Wool Bowl. The stage is set for an unforgettable game.
The Artesia Bulldogs come into this game boasting a perfect 7-0 season record. As the reigning 5A state champions and the top-ranked team in NMPreps Rankings, they are riding a remarkable 15-game win streak dating back to last season, with their only loss coming against the formidable 6A powerhouse, Cleveland. The Bulldogs are well-rested following a bye week and are eager to kick off district play with a bang.
At the helm of the Artesia offense is none other than the highly acclaimed senior quarterback, Nye Estrada. A top candidate for NMPreps/Rivals New Mexico Mr. Football, Estrada's football IQ and leadership are second to none. On the ground, running back Frankie Galindo has been carrying the load, accumulating 561 rushing yards and an impressive 10 rushing touchdowns through just five games. The Bulldogs have a fearsome receiving corps, featuring Juan Duan (2024), Izac Cazares (2025), and Ethan Conn (2025), who pose a constant threat to opposing defenses. On the defensive side, seniors Diego Wesson (2024), Josiah Armendariz (2024), and Jesse Rodriguez (2024) provide essential leadership, anchoring the Bulldogs' defensive efforts. Keep an eye on defensive back David Hammond (2024), who has already garnered five interceptions this season and is well on his way to postseason accolades.
The Roswell Coyotes, their formidable opponents, have had an equally impressive season, arriving at this matchup with an unblemished 7-0 record. Quarterback Manny Fuentes is the engine that drives the Coyotes' offense, showcasing his exceptional skills in both passing and rushing. Running back Bryce Johnson (2024) adds another layer of dynamism to the Roswell attack, and his performance is a sight to behold.
The Coyotes' real strength lies in their wealth of senior leadership. With approximately 34 seniors and 20 juniors on the roster, they bring a wealth of experience and depth to the field. It's this depth and experience that has fueled their success this season.
This monumental game marks the beginning of district play in 4-5A, for both teams. Football enthusiasts can expect an intense showdown, as these two juggernauts leave it all on the field, vying for the top spot in 5A New Mexico high school football. Don't miss the action, as Artesia and Roswell collide in a game that is sure to live up to the hype.
Deming Wildcats (4-3) at Santa Teresa Desert Warriors (0-7) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Get ready for a Friday night face-off as the 5th ranked team in 5A football, the Deming Wildcats, take on the winless Santa Teresa Desert Warriors. It's a district 3-5A showdown, and both teams are gearing up for a pivotal clash.
The Deming Wildcats, with an impressive 4-3 record, are coming off a bye week, providing them with ample time to prepare for this matchup. Senior quarterback Ryan Alfaro has been a standout this season, firmly establishing himself as one of the premier players at his position. Alfaro is a versatile quarterback who excels in both passing and running, and his ability to connect with his targets is nothing short of remarkable. Keep an eye on Aiden Jacquez (2024) and Juan Alamanza (2024) as primary targets for Alfaro. On the defensive side, Sebastian Acuna (2025) is the driving force, leading the team in total tackles with an impressive 50 on the season, 33 of which are solo tackles.
For the Santa Teresa Desert Warriors, it's been a challenging season, as they seek their first win, arriving at this game with a 0-7 record. The Desert Warriors have shown determination and resilience through their struggles. Nicholas Vierra has been a key contributor, carrying the offense on his shoulders, and he'll continue to gain valuable experience for the team's future.
As the Wildcats and the Desert Warriors kick off district play, both teams have their sights set on making a statement in District 3-5A. Deming's impressive ranking highlights their strength, but they'll need to maintain their momentum and execute on the field to secure the victory. On the other side, Santa Teresa, despite a tough season, is eager to put up a fight and improve with each game.
Gadsden Panthers (5-2) at Chaparral Lobos (0-6) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Friday night lights as the Gadsden Panthers, riding high on their recent successes, take on the Chaparral Lobos. It's the beginning of district play, and both teams have their sights set on making a strong start.
Over the past two seasons, head coach Dino Facio Jr. has turned the Gadsden Panthers into a force to be reckoned with. They secured a playoff win in 2022 and are now impressively holding a 5-2 overall record this season. With high expectations for the district, the Panthers aim to make a significant statement in this game. The predictions don't lie, with the Panthers opening as 45-point favorites, indicating their strength and dominance.
On the offensive side, running backs Alfredo Andrande (2025) and Ryan Hernandez (2024) have been the driving force behind the Panthers' success. Andrande leads the team in rushing yards with 546, while the engine of the team, Adrian Munoz (2025), has been an exceptional dual-threat quarterback. Munoz boasts 877 passing yards and 10 passing touchdowns, and he's equally dangerous on the ground with 246 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns.
The Panthers' defensive lineup also features some standout players who are poised for postseason recognition. Keep an eye on Alex Lopez (2026), who has accumulated 56 total tackles and 3.5 sacks, and Nathaniel Lopez (2024), with 54 total tackles and 3 sacks, making them formidable forces on the defensive side.
On the other side of the field, the Chaparral Lobos, despite some struggles this season, have seen promising performances from Manny Rodriguez, a 2025 DE/DT. Rodriguez has shined with his 62 total tackles on the season, and his versatility allows him to contribute on both sides of the ball.
This game is a fantastic opportunity for the Panthers to showcase their talent and maintain their winning momentum. The Lobos, meanwhile, will look to rise to the challenge, and with standout players like Rodriguez, they aim to make a statement of their own.
Goddard Rockets (5-2) at Mayfield Trojans (4-3) - Thursday, 7:00 PM
Thursday Night Clash: Get ready for a high-stakes Thursday night showdown under the bright lights as the Goddard Rockets, riding high after two impressive wins, go head-to-head with the Mayfield Trojans, who are looking to build on their recent triumph. This matchup has all the makings of a thrilling 5A New Mexico high school football game.
The Goddard Rockets come into this game after an unexpected loss to Piedra Vista, but they have bounced back impressively with consecutive wins against Gadsden (35-7) and Belen (57-7). With a season record of 5-2, the Rockets are fired up and ready to embark on district play against the Mayfield Trojans.
In the backfield, the Rockets boast a dynamic duo of running backs, featuring Xavier Perez (2025) and Jon Silva (2024). Silva, known for his hard-hitting yet agile running style, brings a formidable presence to the team. Leading the charge on the offensive side is their quarterback, Dominic Ramirez, who may fly under the radar but efficiently manages the game for the Rockets. Additionally, one key player who provides stability to their offensive line is Aiden Martin, a seasoned senior center whose skill and leadership are invaluable to the team's success.
On the Mayfield Trojans' side, new head coach Gary Bradley has steered the team to a solid 4-3 season record. They're coming off an impressive win against Santa Teresa in week 8, securing a dominant victory with a score of 53-0. Notably, all three of their losses this season have come at the hands of teams ranked in the top-25, including two formidable 6A teams, Centennial and Las Cruces.
The Trojans feature a star player in receiver Brian Coyle (2024), who's not only a dependable pass-catcher but also fearless when it comes to going after the ball. Spearheading their aerial attack is quarterback Xavier Ochoa (2026), who might be flying under the radar now but is poised to become a household name in the coming years. Ochoa's ability to make long passes, particularly to Coyle, adds an explosive dimension to the Trojans' offense.
As the Goddard Rockets and Mayfield Trojans collide on the field, fans can expect an intense battle between two well-matched teams. The Rockets are seeking to maintain their winning streak, while the Trojans aim to continue their upward trajectory under the guidance of their new head coach Gary Bradley.
Related: Thursday Night Grine Pick and Prediction
Highland Hornets (4-3) at Belen Eagles (0-7) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Playoff Implications Galore: Friday night lights bring us a high-stakes showdown with plenty of playoff implications as the Highland Hornets (4-3) take on the Belen Eagles (0-7). Despite the Eagles' winless record, they still harbor hopes of securing a playoff spot, making this game a must-win for them. They are currently the first team on the bubble, with a precarious playoff berth hanging in the balance. Though they've had a challenging schedule, a week three loss to Manzano (1-6 overall) has put their playoff aspirations in jeopardy.
The Highland Hornets come into this contest riding a wave of momentum, having secured four consecutive victories after starting the season at 0-3. A major driving force for the Hornets has been running back Amiri Mumba (2025), who's on the cusp of joining the 1,000-yard rusher club. He currently boasts an impressive 938 rushing yards and has found the end zone 8 times this season. Quarterback Alex Lopez has been an essential piece of the puzzle, contributing with 486 rushing yards and 7 rushing touchdowns. Through the air, Lopez has accumulated 359 passing yards and added 3 passing touchdowns to his impressive stats.
On the Belen Eagles' side, senior running back Derien Rodriguez has accumulated 277 rushing yards and found the end zone 3 times this season. While their record may not reflect their full potential, the Eagles have their sights set on an upset.
Intriguingly, the Friday predictions are hinting at a potential upset, with the underdog Eagles possibly emerging as the favored team. This unexpected twist adds an element of unpredictability to an already significant matchup.
With a playoff spot in the balance, both teams have everything to play for. The Eagles will be determined to prove that their winless record doesn't define their true capabilities. The Hornets, on the other hand, aim to maintain their winning streak and secure a strong position in the playoff race.
Don't miss this exciting contest, where playoff dreams will be on the line, and every yard gained and every point scored will have profound implications. The stage is set for a thrilling game of high school football, with both teams eager to seize the opportunity for victory.
Manzano Monarchs (1-6) at Los Alamos Hilltoppers (6-1) - Friday, 7:00 PM
In a highly anticipated district opener, the 8th ranked Los Alamos Hilltoppers (6-1) are gearing up to host Albuquerque's Manzano High School Monarchs (1-6). After a well-deserved week off, the Hilltoppers are eager to make a splash in District 2-5A.
The Monarchs, on the other hand, find themselves in desperate need of a win as they grapple with a challenging five-game losing streak. Last week, they exhibited a resurgence in their district opener against Valley, despite a 62-42 loss. The Monarchs showcased an offensive prowess that had been somewhat elusive in recent seasons. The man orchestrating this resurgence is none other than quarterback James Vautier (2025). Vautier displayed impressive form last week, amassing 216 passing yards and tossing 3 touchdown passes, bringing his season total to 673 passing yards and 7 touchdowns. It's clear that Vautier is a key component of the Monarchs' offensive revival.
On the Los Alamos Hilltoppers' side, the season has been nothing short of spectacular. Despite one early setback, they are well-positioned to compete for the District 2-5A championship and defend their crown. One of the standout names to watch is Niko Garcia (2024), who has had an outstanding season. Garcia is knocking on the door as a potential Top-50 player nominee, having accumulated an impressive 636 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. His contributions on the ground have been pivotal to the Hilltoppers' success. Meanwhile, Kyler Young (2024) is an absolute force on defense, embodying the team's unwavering resolve.
The Hilltoppers also boast a dynamic duo in Jackson Blair (2024) and Matthew Brousseau (2024). Blair, a defensive standout, has amassed 44 total tackles and an incredible 10 sacks this season, making him a menace to opposing offenses. Brousseau, with 39 total tackles and 4 sacks, has added to the Hilltoppers' formidable defensive prowess. Their stellar performances exemplify the Hilltoppers' commitment to maintaining a dominant defense.
As district play gets underway, both teams have their respective goals. The Monarchs are hungry for a much-needed win to reverse their season's fortunes, while the Hilltoppers are looking to continue their impressive run and clinch another District 2-5A championship. This game promises to be a thrilling showcase of high school football, where aspirations and ambitions collide under the Friday night lights. Football fans won't want to miss this matchup between two teams with differing goals but equal determination to emerge victorious.
Miyamura Patriots (3-4) at Piedra Vista Panthers (2-5) - Friday, 7:00 PM
High-Stakes Showdown: Get ready for a highly anticipated Friday night battle that could well be a preview of the District 1-5A championship game. The defending champions, the Piedra Vista Panthers (2-5), enter this contest as the favorites. They face a remarkable surprise in the form of the Miyamura Patriots (3-4), who have been on a surprising rise under head coach David Foley. With both teams aiming for district supremacy, this matchup carries immense significance for the playoff picture.
The Miyamura Patriots have defied expectations this season, exceeding the initially low projections. They now find themselves in contention for a playoff spot and, remarkably, in the hunt for a District championship. Leading the charge for the Patriots is senior quarterback Dylan Joines (2024). Joines has showcased his dual-threat ability with 558 rushing yards and 8 rushing touchdowns, while also contributing 283 passing yards and 4 passing touchdowns. His versatility makes him a crucial factor in the Patriots' success. In the backfield, running back Bryan Herold (2024) has been another standout, amassing 306 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns.
On the defensive side, the Patriots rely on a talented sophomore duo in Benjamin Vidales and Carlos Garcia. Their combined efforts have anchored the defense, while junior Marty Roanhouse has made a name for himself with 2.5 sacks this season and 20 total tackles. Vidales, with 45 total tackles, and Garcia, with 34 total tackles, provide essential contributions to the Patriots' defensive unit.
The defending district champions, the Piedra Vista Panthers, continue to harbor hopes of a playoff run despite their 2-5 record. It's worth noting that their opponents this season have been nothing short of formidable. Four of their five losses came against teams ranked in the New Mexico Top-25, and three of them were against 6A opponents. The experience gained from such challenging matchups is invaluable as they set their sights on another district championship.
Quarterback Felipe Begaye, a prominent presence under center, will be a pivotal player for the Panthers. His leadership and skills will be essential in this crucial matchup.
This game promises to be a high-stakes showdown, with playoff implications and district bragging rights hanging in the balance. Football fans won't want to miss this contest, as it features two determined teams, each with its own aspirations of success. The battle for the District 1-5A championship begins here, and the outcome is far from certain, making this game a must-watch for high school football enthusiasts.
Valley Vikings (4-3) at Del Norte Knights (1-6) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Friday night lights illuminate the gridiron as the Valley Vikings (4-3) clash with the Del Norte Knights (1-6) in a crucial District 2-5A battle. With Valley as clear favorites, this game could set the tone for both teams' district championship aspirations and playoff hopes.
The Valley Vikings, led by senior running back Charlie Lopez-Burton, have had a season of highs and lows. Lopez-Burton is a standout player with an impressive 1,067 rushing yards this season, a testament to his skill and impact on the team. His exceptional performance in the previous game against Manzano, where he racked up 306 yards and scored 3 touchdowns, is fresh in memory. With such a dynamic playmaker in the backfield, the Vikings have the potential to make a deep playoff run.
The Vikings' season has indeed been something of a roller coaster, with a surprising week one loss to Bernalillo followed by three consecutive victories. Subsequent losses to Los Lunas and Portales added to the unpredictability of their campaign. Last week, Valley entered district play with a bang by defeating Manzano 62-42 and ending a two-game skid, bringing their season record to 4-3.
In addition to Lopez-Burton's exploits, quarterback Julian Butkivich (2025) has proven his worth with 684 passing yards and 6 passing touchdowns this season. As the leader on the defensive front, Lopez-Burton also shines with 59 total tackles, including 17 tackles for loss. Senior Daniel Valdez adds to the defensive prowess with 57 total tackles to his name.
For the Del Norte Knights, the season has had its challenges, but they did secure a significant victory by ending a 21-game losing streak with a 21-12 win over Rio Grande on September 22, 2023. Despite a likely struggle in the district, the Knights have a resilient spirit as they focus on building for the future.
Senior captain Joziah Turtle-Morales has taken the helm under center for the Knights this season. His leadership and performance will be key for the Knights, who aim to make strides and lay the foundation for a brighter future.
With the Valley Vikings eager to capture the District 2-5A championship and the Del Norte Knights focused on growth and improvement.
Grine's 4A Preview for Week 9
Grine's 3A Preview for Week 9
Grine's 2A Preview for Week 9
Grine's 8-Man/6-Man Preview for Week 9
Week 9 NMPreps.com New Mexico High School Football Team Rankings
Week 9 Playoff Predictions
As we step into Week 9 of the New Mexico high school football season, anticipation and excitement are running high. Several games are poised to be epic battles, and we've got a tantalizing preview for you.
NMPreps.com's Joshua Grine previews every game this week in 5A football.
Artesia Bulldogs (7-0) at Roswell Coyotes (7-0) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Epic Showdown: Get ready for a Friday night clash of the titans as two undefeated 5A powerhouses face off in what promises to be an electrifying high school football showdown. It's a battle of the top dogs, as the No. 1 Artesia Bulldogs take on the second-ranked Roswell Coyotes at the iconic Wool Bowl. The stage is set for an unforgettable game.
The Artesia Bulldogs come into this game boasting a perfect 7-0 season record. As the reigning 5A state champions and the top-ranked team in NMPreps Rankings, they are riding a remarkable 15-game win streak dating back to last season, with their only loss coming against the formidable 6A powerhouse, Cleveland. The Bulldogs are well-rested following a bye week and are eager to kick off district play with a bang.
At the helm of the Artesia offense is none other than the highly acclaimed senior quarterback, Nye Estrada. A top candidate for NMPreps/Rivals New Mexico Mr. Football, Estrada's football IQ and leadership are second to none. On the ground, running back Frankie Galindo has been carrying the load, accumulating 561 rushing yards and an impressive 10 rushing touchdowns through just five games. The Bulldogs have a fearsome receiving corps, featuring Juan Duan (2024), Izac Cazares (2025), and Ethan Conn (2025), who pose a constant threat to opposing defenses. On the defensive side, seniors Diego Wesson (2024), Josiah Armendariz (2024), and Jesse Rodriguez (2024) provide essential leadership, anchoring the Bulldogs' defensive efforts. Keep an eye on defensive back David Hammond (2024), who has already garnered five interceptions this season and is well on his way to postseason accolades.
The Roswell Coyotes, their formidable opponents, have had an equally impressive season, arriving at this matchup with an unblemished 7-0 record. Quarterback Manny Fuentes is the engine that drives the Coyotes' offense, showcasing his exceptional skills in both passing and rushing. Running back Bryce Johnson (2024) adds another layer of dynamism to the Roswell attack, and his performance is a sight to behold.
The Coyotes' real strength lies in their wealth of senior leadership. With approximately 34 seniors and 20 juniors on the roster, they bring a wealth of experience and depth to the field. It's this depth and experience that has fueled their success this season.
This monumental game marks the beginning of district play in 4-5A, for both teams. Football enthusiasts can expect an intense showdown, as these two juggernauts leave it all on the field, vying for the top spot in 5A New Mexico high school football. Don't miss the action, as Artesia and Roswell collide in a game that is sure to live up to the hype.
Deming Wildcats (4-3) at Santa Teresa Desert Warriors (0-7) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Get ready for a Friday night face-off as the 5th ranked team in 5A football, the Deming Wildcats, take on the winless Santa Teresa Desert Warriors. It's a district 3-5A showdown, and both teams are gearing up for a pivotal clash.
The Deming Wildcats, with an impressive 4-3 record, are coming off a bye week, providing them with ample time to prepare for this matchup. Senior quarterback Ryan Alfaro has been a standout this season, firmly establishing himself as one of the premier players at his position. Alfaro is a versatile quarterback who excels in both passing and running, and his ability to connect with his targets is nothing short of remarkable. Keep an eye on Aiden Jacquez (2024) and Juan Alamanza (2024) as primary targets for Alfaro. On the defensive side, Sebastian Acuna (2025) is the driving force, leading the team in total tackles with an impressive 50 on the season, 33 of which are solo tackles.
For the Santa Teresa Desert Warriors, it's been a challenging season, as they seek their first win, arriving at this game with a 0-7 record. The Desert Warriors have shown determination and resilience through their struggles. Nicholas Vierra has been a key contributor, carrying the offense on his shoulders, and he'll continue to gain valuable experience for the team's future.
As the Wildcats and the Desert Warriors kick off district play, both teams have their sights set on making a statement in District 3-5A. Deming's impressive ranking highlights their strength, but they'll need to maintain their momentum and execute on the field to secure the victory. On the other side, Santa Teresa, despite a tough season, is eager to put up a fight and improve with each game.
Gadsden Panthers (5-2) at Chaparral Lobos (0-6) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Friday night lights as the Gadsden Panthers, riding high on their recent successes, take on the Chaparral Lobos. It's the beginning of district play, and both teams have their sights set on making a strong start.
Over the past two seasons, head coach Dino Facio Jr. has turned the Gadsden Panthers into a force to be reckoned with. They secured a playoff win in 2022 and are now impressively holding a 5-2 overall record this season. With high expectations for the district, the Panthers aim to make a significant statement in this game. The predictions don't lie, with the Panthers opening as 45-point favorites, indicating their strength and dominance.
On the offensive side, running backs Alfredo Andrande (2025) and Ryan Hernandez (2024) have been the driving force behind the Panthers' success. Andrande leads the team in rushing yards with 546, while the engine of the team, Adrian Munoz (2025), has been an exceptional dual-threat quarterback. Munoz boasts 877 passing yards and 10 passing touchdowns, and he's equally dangerous on the ground with 246 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns.
The Panthers' defensive lineup also features some standout players who are poised for postseason recognition. Keep an eye on Alex Lopez (2026), who has accumulated 56 total tackles and 3.5 sacks, and Nathaniel Lopez (2024), with 54 total tackles and 3 sacks, making them formidable forces on the defensive side.
On the other side of the field, the Chaparral Lobos, despite some struggles this season, have seen promising performances from Manny Rodriguez, a 2025 DE/DT. Rodriguez has shined with his 62 total tackles on the season, and his versatility allows him to contribute on both sides of the ball.
This game is a fantastic opportunity for the Panthers to showcase their talent and maintain their winning momentum. The Lobos, meanwhile, will look to rise to the challenge, and with standout players like Rodriguez, they aim to make a statement of their own.
Goddard Rockets (5-2) at Mayfield Trojans (4-3) - Thursday, 7:00 PM
Thursday Night Clash: Get ready for a high-stakes Thursday night showdown under the bright lights as the Goddard Rockets, riding high after two impressive wins, go head-to-head with the Mayfield Trojans, who are looking to build on their recent triumph. This matchup has all the makings of a thrilling 5A New Mexico high school football game.
The Goddard Rockets come into this game after an unexpected loss to Piedra Vista, but they have bounced back impressively with consecutive wins against Gadsden (35-7) and Belen (57-7). With a season record of 5-2, the Rockets are fired up and ready to embark on district play against the Mayfield Trojans.
In the backfield, the Rockets boast a dynamic duo of running backs, featuring Xavier Perez (2025) and Jon Silva (2024). Silva, known for his hard-hitting yet agile running style, brings a formidable presence to the team. Leading the charge on the offensive side is their quarterback, Dominic Ramirez, who may fly under the radar but efficiently manages the game for the Rockets. Additionally, one key player who provides stability to their offensive line is Aiden Martin, a seasoned senior center whose skill and leadership are invaluable to the team's success.
On the Mayfield Trojans' side, new head coach Gary Bradley has steered the team to a solid 4-3 season record. They're coming off an impressive win against Santa Teresa in week 8, securing a dominant victory with a score of 53-0. Notably, all three of their losses this season have come at the hands of teams ranked in the top-25, including two formidable 6A teams, Centennial and Las Cruces.
The Trojans feature a star player in receiver Brian Coyle (2024), who's not only a dependable pass-catcher but also fearless when it comes to going after the ball. Spearheading their aerial attack is quarterback Xavier Ochoa (2026), who might be flying under the radar now but is poised to become a household name in the coming years. Ochoa's ability to make long passes, particularly to Coyle, adds an explosive dimension to the Trojans' offense.
As the Goddard Rockets and Mayfield Trojans collide on the field, fans can expect an intense battle between two well-matched teams. The Rockets are seeking to maintain their winning streak, while the Trojans aim to continue their upward trajectory under the guidance of their new head coach Gary Bradley.
Related: Thursday Night Grine Pick and Prediction
Highland Hornets (4-3) at Belen Eagles (0-7) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Playoff Implications Galore: Friday night lights bring us a high-stakes showdown with plenty of playoff implications as the Highland Hornets (4-3) take on the Belen Eagles (0-7). Despite the Eagles' winless record, they still harbor hopes of securing a playoff spot, making this game a must-win for them. They are currently the first team on the bubble, with a precarious playoff berth hanging in the balance. Though they've had a challenging schedule, a week three loss to Manzano (1-6 overall) has put their playoff aspirations in jeopardy.
The Highland Hornets come into this contest riding a wave of momentum, having secured four consecutive victories after starting the season at 0-3. A major driving force for the Hornets has been running back Amiri Mumba (2025), who's on the cusp of joining the 1,000-yard rusher club. He currently boasts an impressive 938 rushing yards and has found the end zone 8 times this season. Quarterback Alex Lopez has been an essential piece of the puzzle, contributing with 486 rushing yards and 7 rushing touchdowns. Through the air, Lopez has accumulated 359 passing yards and added 3 passing touchdowns to his impressive stats.
On the Belen Eagles' side, senior running back Derien Rodriguez has accumulated 277 rushing yards and found the end zone 3 times this season. While their record may not reflect their full potential, the Eagles have their sights set on an upset.
Intriguingly, the Friday predictions are hinting at a potential upset, with the underdog Eagles possibly emerging as the favored team. This unexpected twist adds an element of unpredictability to an already significant matchup.
With a playoff spot in the balance, both teams have everything to play for. The Eagles will be determined to prove that their winless record doesn't define their true capabilities. The Hornets, on the other hand, aim to maintain their winning streak and secure a strong position in the playoff race.
Don't miss this exciting contest, where playoff dreams will be on the line, and every yard gained and every point scored will have profound implications. The stage is set for a thrilling game of high school football, with both teams eager to seize the opportunity for victory.
Manzano Monarchs (1-6) at Los Alamos Hilltoppers (6-1) - Friday, 7:00 PM
In a highly anticipated district opener, the 8th ranked Los Alamos Hilltoppers (6-1) are gearing up to host Albuquerque's Manzano High School Monarchs (1-6). After a well-deserved week off, the Hilltoppers are eager to make a splash in District 2-5A.
The Monarchs, on the other hand, find themselves in desperate need of a win as they grapple with a challenging five-game losing streak. Last week, they exhibited a resurgence in their district opener against Valley, despite a 62-42 loss. The Monarchs showcased an offensive prowess that had been somewhat elusive in recent seasons. The man orchestrating this resurgence is none other than quarterback James Vautier (2025). Vautier displayed impressive form last week, amassing 216 passing yards and tossing 3 touchdown passes, bringing his season total to 673 passing yards and 7 touchdowns. It's clear that Vautier is a key component of the Monarchs' offensive revival.
On the Los Alamos Hilltoppers' side, the season has been nothing short of spectacular. Despite one early setback, they are well-positioned to compete for the District 2-5A championship and defend their crown. One of the standout names to watch is Niko Garcia (2024), who has had an outstanding season. Garcia is knocking on the door as a potential Top-50 player nominee, having accumulated an impressive 636 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. His contributions on the ground have been pivotal to the Hilltoppers' success. Meanwhile, Kyler Young (2024) is an absolute force on defense, embodying the team's unwavering resolve.
The Hilltoppers also boast a dynamic duo in Jackson Blair (2024) and Matthew Brousseau (2024). Blair, a defensive standout, has amassed 44 total tackles and an incredible 10 sacks this season, making him a menace to opposing offenses. Brousseau, with 39 total tackles and 4 sacks, has added to the Hilltoppers' formidable defensive prowess. Their stellar performances exemplify the Hilltoppers' commitment to maintaining a dominant defense.
As district play gets underway, both teams have their respective goals. The Monarchs are hungry for a much-needed win to reverse their season's fortunes, while the Hilltoppers are looking to continue their impressive run and clinch another District 2-5A championship. This game promises to be a thrilling showcase of high school football, where aspirations and ambitions collide under the Friday night lights. Football fans won't want to miss this matchup between two teams with differing goals but equal determination to emerge victorious.
Miyamura Patriots (3-4) at Piedra Vista Panthers (2-5) - Friday, 7:00 PM
High-Stakes Showdown: Get ready for a highly anticipated Friday night battle that could well be a preview of the District 1-5A championship game. The defending champions, the Piedra Vista Panthers (2-5), enter this contest as the favorites. They face a remarkable surprise in the form of the Miyamura Patriots (3-4), who have been on a surprising rise under head coach David Foley. With both teams aiming for district supremacy, this matchup carries immense significance for the playoff picture.
The Miyamura Patriots have defied expectations this season, exceeding the initially low projections. They now find themselves in contention for a playoff spot and, remarkably, in the hunt for a District championship. Leading the charge for the Patriots is senior quarterback Dylan Joines (2024). Joines has showcased his dual-threat ability with 558 rushing yards and 8 rushing touchdowns, while also contributing 283 passing yards and 4 passing touchdowns. His versatility makes him a crucial factor in the Patriots' success. In the backfield, running back Bryan Herold (2024) has been another standout, amassing 306 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns.
On the defensive side, the Patriots rely on a talented sophomore duo in Benjamin Vidales and Carlos Garcia. Their combined efforts have anchored the defense, while junior Marty Roanhouse has made a name for himself with 2.5 sacks this season and 20 total tackles. Vidales, with 45 total tackles, and Garcia, with 34 total tackles, provide essential contributions to the Patriots' defensive unit.
The defending district champions, the Piedra Vista Panthers, continue to harbor hopes of a playoff run despite their 2-5 record. It's worth noting that their opponents this season have been nothing short of formidable. Four of their five losses came against teams ranked in the New Mexico Top-25, and three of them were against 6A opponents. The experience gained from such challenging matchups is invaluable as they set their sights on another district championship.
Quarterback Felipe Begaye, a prominent presence under center, will be a pivotal player for the Panthers. His leadership and skills will be essential in this crucial matchup.
This game promises to be a high-stakes showdown, with playoff implications and district bragging rights hanging in the balance. Football fans won't want to miss this contest, as it features two determined teams, each with its own aspirations of success. The battle for the District 1-5A championship begins here, and the outcome is far from certain, making this game a must-watch for high school football enthusiasts.
Valley Vikings (4-3) at Del Norte Knights (1-6) - Friday, 7:00 PM
Friday night lights illuminate the gridiron as the Valley Vikings (4-3) clash with the Del Norte Knights (1-6) in a crucial District 2-5A battle. With Valley as clear favorites, this game could set the tone for both teams' district championship aspirations and playoff hopes.
The Valley Vikings, led by senior running back Charlie Lopez-Burton, have had a season of highs and lows. Lopez-Burton is a standout player with an impressive 1,067 rushing yards this season, a testament to his skill and impact on the team. His exceptional performance in the previous game against Manzano, where he racked up 306 yards and scored 3 touchdowns, is fresh in memory. With such a dynamic playmaker in the backfield, the Vikings have the potential to make a deep playoff run.
The Vikings' season has indeed been something of a roller coaster, with a surprising week one loss to Bernalillo followed by three consecutive victories. Subsequent losses to Los Lunas and Portales added to the unpredictability of their campaign. Last week, Valley entered district play with a bang by defeating Manzano 62-42 and ending a two-game skid, bringing their season record to 4-3.
In addition to Lopez-Burton's exploits, quarterback Julian Butkivich (2025) has proven his worth with 684 passing yards and 6 passing touchdowns this season. As the leader on the defensive front, Lopez-Burton also shines with 59 total tackles, including 17 tackles for loss. Senior Daniel Valdez adds to the defensive prowess with 57 total tackles to his name.
For the Del Norte Knights, the season has had its challenges, but they did secure a significant victory by ending a 21-game losing streak with a 21-12 win over Rio Grande on September 22, 2023. Despite a likely struggle in the district, the Knights have a resilient spirit as they focus on building for the future.
Senior captain Joziah Turtle-Morales has taken the helm under center for the Knights this season. His leadership and performance will be key for the Knights, who aim to make strides and lay the foundation for a brighter future.
With the Valley Vikings eager to capture the District 2-5A championship and the Del Norte Knights focused on growth and improvement.
Related
Thursday Night Picks and PredictionsGrine's 4A Preview for Week 9
Grine's 3A Preview for Week 9
Grine's 2A Preview for Week 9
Grine's 8-Man/6-Man Preview for Week 9
Week 9 NMPreps.com New Mexico High School Football Team Rankings
Week 9 Playoff Predictions
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