Here’s what’s coming up in Northern New Mexico in the week ahead:
Thursday, Oct. 6
Volleyball: Questa vs. Escalante
The Lobos (9-2) look like the far and away favorites yet again in District 5-2A, and could easily go undefeated for the second-straight season, even after losing a strong senior class and most starters. Led by three seniors — setter Emma Maestas, outside hitter Brycelyn Martinez and libero Katelyn Hinds — Escalante has barely lost a step. Their first test comes at home against the Wildcats (5-7), led by two setters in Alyana León and Karina Rael, and outside hitter Jordyn Martinez.
Friday, Oct. 7
Football: Laguna-Acoma vs. Escalante
The Lobos (3-4) are looking to rebound after a tough loss to Tularosa where they gave up 43 points. The defense seemingly has an easier matchup this week as they play host to the Hawks (3-4), who have scored just 16 points per game. But perhaps Laguna-Acoma is not to be underestimated, as they enter on a three-game win streak. Escalante will look to repeat what they did last year in a 44-6 win where they ran for over 300 yards.
Football: Navajo Prep vs. Española Valley
Nate Chacon and the Sundevils (4-2) have a four-game win streak for the first time since their 2015 district championship run. This week is one last chance to prepare for their challenging distrtict, where both Taos (5-1) and Moriarty (4-2) look like top-tier opponents. If the Sundevils want to prove they belong in that conversation, they will put away the Eagles (0-5) quickly.
Saturday, Oct. 8
Football: Santa Rosa vs. McCurdy
McCurdy (3-4) comes in on a winning streak after a difficult schedule led to an 0-4 start. A two-headed quarterback of Lucas Martinez and Jeremaya Roybal can be tough for opponents, and the defense has taken over, allowing 16 points per game in their last three non-forfeit games against 3A opponents. But as they enter 2A district play, the Lions (5-2) are even tougher than their recent foes, and the Bobcats will need to take another step forward to stay close.