Week 13
Española won its first state playoff game in school history last week. Now, they travel to Lovington looking for a big upset.
Our new weekly football hub will provide updates with every local game each week. Refresh after the game for news, statistics and pictures.
And follow Rio Grande Sun Sports on Twitter and Instagram for live updates of the games.
No. 7 Española Valley vs. No. 2 Lovington
Saturday, Nov. 11, 1 p.m., Wildcat Stadium (Lovington)
The Sundevils did everything they do well last week, routing St. Pius X from kickoff in a 31-7 victory. Española ran for 400 yards and held the Sartans’ offense in check. The run defense was strong and
Now, they will need all that and more as they head into the lion’s den. Lovington ranks as the top team in 4A by MaxPreps, and their only New Mexico losses have come to the two top teams across all classes. They’re fresh off a bye week, and the week before that, they beat previously-undefeated Portales.
The Sundevils are excited to just get a taste of Southern New Mexico football, where the sport reigns supreme. But they also are coming ready to play. A strong run game has powered the Sundevils on a seven-game win streak.
Lovington is powered by a strong passing game, and Española will need defensive backs to step up, including Abraham Tamayo, Anthony Mendoza and Victor Parra. Lovington’s wide receiver Demarcus Thompson is an especially scary weapon, capable of scoring on any touch.
The game is likely to be a shootout. If Lovington comes in to the week prepared and expecting a dogfight, they have the edge. But if they underestimate what Española can do, an upset is within the cards.
Prediction: Lovington 40, Española Valley 34