Here’s what’s coming up in Northern New Mexico in the week ahead:
Friday, Sept. 9
Football: Escalante vs. Estancia
Last year, in essentially a district championship, the Bears took advantage of Lobo injuries in a 63-20 win. Now the two teams are in different districts, but the rivalry remains strong. The Lobos (2-1) look to capitalize on the momentum of two strong wins, though coach Rico DeYapp says the team stays even through wins and losses. Estancia (0-3) might be weaker than anticipated this year, losing their first three games by a combined 140-38, or it could be a difficult schedule causing the issues. Like Escalante, the Bears are a run first, second and third team, led by junior Josh Calhoon who has 368 yards through three games.
Football: West Las Vegas vs. Española Valley
The Sundevils (1-2) must be feeling good now after not just recording a win, but getting it in a 55-0 shutout. Now, they must prove it was not a fluke, and have a good opportunity to do so against the Dons (2-1). Last year, Española lost 64-14, but there are plenty of reasons to think this result could be different. For starters, West Las Vegas no longer has star running back Damian Gallegos. But sophomore quarterback CJ Perea has already become one of the best statistical passers in the state. If nothing else, the quarterback duel between him and Española’s Nate Chacon — who has seven total touchdowns this year — will be worth watching.
Football: Pojoaque Valley vs. Santa Fe Indian
The Elks (0-2) are looking for a break after starting the year with two 50-point losses. Their best chance at that comes this weekend, as the Braves (1-2) have also struggled out of the gates — getting blown out by Cuba and Socorro and most recently scraping by a small Laguna-Acoma team. This is unlikely to be another 64-point outing, especially as now-graduated Dominic Esquibel scored 44 of those points last year, and all were by seniors. But the Elks should have enough talent, led by senior quarterback Adam Pacheco, to turn this game into a much-needed win.
Volleyball: Tournament of Champions
The Santa Fe tournament will return top teams from around the state, and Española Valley (1-4) and Pojoaque Valley (5-0) will be back to see how they match up, and how well they can endure a long weekend. The Elkettes reached the ‘Gold’ bracket last year, but finished seventh out of eight. They have already logged some impressive wins early this year with a strong back row and hitters, even with a new sophomore setter. A young Sundevil team, led by freshman setter Leah Vigil and a great passing game, will attempt to succeed in pool play after a slow start to the season.