New Mexico High School Football Showdowns Set Stage for Thrilling Playoff Push

A packed Saturday of New Mexico high school football is set to deliver critical matchups with major playoff implications. Several top-ranked teams are hitting the field for pivotal late-season contests. Undefeated powerhouses and defending champions look to secure their standings. The action kicks off across multiple classes this morning.

Top Teams Battle for Seeding and District Supremacy

In Class 6A, No. 16 Santa Fe travels to face No. 5 La Cueva. The Bears aim to close their regular season strong. Santa Fe hopes to play spoiler and disrupt La Cueva’s seeding plans.

The Class 5A spotlight shines on undefeated No. 6 Los Alamos. They visit No. 11 Valley. The Hilltoppers are chasing the District 1-5A title and a top-four playoff seed. According to MaxPreps, their offense is a major threat.

Star Power and Defensive Dominance on Display

Los Alamos relies on a powerful offensive duo. Jordan Herrera has rushed for 1,538 yards and 27 touchdowns this season. Quarterback Hayden Walker has added 1,487 passing yards and 12 scores.

In Class 4A, top-ranked Bloomfield brings its high-powered attack to Española Valley. Bobcats quarterback Manual Chavarria leads the state with 2,128 passing yards and 33 touchdowns. His top receivers, Kaleb Hutchens and Deasyl Priddy, make the offense incredibly efficient.

The marquee 3A game features undefeated No. 1 St. Michael’s hosting No. 5 Pojoaque Valley. Horsemen quarterback Kamal Stith is a dual-threat star. He has thrown for 24 touchdowns and rushed for 10 more. His backfield partner, Isaiah Dominguez, is a dynamic two-way player.

Defensively, St. Michael’s is anchored by Ryan Hunt. Hunt has recorded a remarkable 22 tackles for loss and 15 sacks this season. This unit has been the backbone of their perfect record.

This weekend’s results will finalize the playoff picture for many teams. The New Mexico high school football season is reaching its thrilling climax, where every play matters.

Info at your fingertips

Who is the state’s leading passer?

Bloomfield quarterback Manual Chavarria leads all classes in New Mexico. He has thrown for 2,128 yards and 33 touchdowns this season.

Which undefeated teams are playing Saturday?

Los Alamos (8-0) in 5A and St. Michael’s (8-0) in 3A are both in action. They are looking to protect their perfect records.

What makes St. Michael’s so dominant?

Their success comes from a balanced offense and a fierce defense. Quarterback Kamal Stith leads the offense, while Ryan Hunt powers a defense that creates constant pressure.

How important is the Los Alamos vs. Valley game?

It is crucial for Los Alamos’s district title hopes and a potential top-four playoff seed. A win solidifies their status as a 5A contender.

Can Santa Fe pull off an upset against La Cueva?

It would require a major defensive effort. Santa Fe must contain La Cueva’s balanced attack to have a chance in the 6A matchup.

Trusted Sources

MaxPreps, Albuquerque Journal, NMAA Official Statistics