The La Cueva (Albuquerque, NM) varsity football team is hosting Cleveland (Rio Rancho, NM) in a home playoff game today, November 30, at 1 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: New Mexico High School Football
Who: Cleveland (NM) vs La Cueva (NM)
When: Saturday, November 30, 2024
Time: 1 PM. ET
Bracket: 2024 Nusenda Credit Union State Football Championships – 6A
Live Stream: Watch Here

Game Preview: Cleveland (NM) vs. La Cueva (NM)

The Cleveland Storm (11-1) will face off against the La Cueva Bears (12-0) in what promises to be an exciting playoff matchup between two of New Mexico’s best high school football teams. La Cueva enters the game undefeated, while Cleveland has just one loss on the season. Both teams have impressive records and have shown themselves to be among the top contenders in the state.

Season Recap: Cleveland

• Record: 11-1
• League Record: 5-0
• Points For/Against: 576 PF, 136 PA
• Scoring Average: 48.0 points per game

Cleveland has had an impressive season, losing just once and dominating their opponents with an average of 48 points per game. Their offense has been prolific, and they’ve been particularly strong in the rushing game, averaging 212.1 rushing yards per game. Cleveland’s defense has also been tough, allowing just 136 points all season.

Key Strengths:

• High Scoring: Cleveland is one of the highest-scoring teams in the state, averaging 48.0 points per game.
• Strong Rushing Attack: With 212.1 rushing yards per game, they have been able to control the clock and wear down defenses.
• Dominant Defense: Allowing only 136 points, Cleveland’s defense has been able to stop most of their opponents.

Season Recap: La Cueva

• Record: 12-0
• League Record: 7-0
• Points For/Against: 560 PF, 147 PA
• Scoring Average: 46.7 points per game

La Cueva has also had an undefeated season, with a solid mix of offense and defense. Their offense averages 46.7 points per game, and their defense has been just as strong, allowing only 147 points. They have a balanced attack but rely on their solid play in both phases of the game. La Cueva’s defense will be key in limiting Cleveland’s explosive offense.

Key Strengths:

• Balanced Attack: La Cueva combines a strong passing and rushing game while also boasting a defense that has allowed fewer than 150 points.
• Undefeated Record: La Cueva enters the playoffs with momentum and confidence, having won every game this season.
• Defensive Strength: With 147 points allowed, their defense is one of the toughest in the state.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Key Matchups

1. Cleveland’s Offense vs. La Cueva’s Defense
   Cleveland’s offense, led by Juan Munoz, has been explosive, averaging 48 points per game. However, La Cueva’s defense has only allowed 147 points all season. This will be a crucial matchup, as Cleveland’s ability to score could be limited by La Cueva’s tough defensive unit.
2. La Cueva’s Balanced Attack vs. Cleveland’s Defense
   La Cueva’s offense will look to exploit Cleveland’s defense. While La Cueva isn’t as high-scoring as Cleveland, they are well-balanced and have averaged 46.7 points per game. Cleveland’s defense will need to step up to limit La Cueva’s ability to control the game.
3. Turnover Battle
   Both teams have potent offenses, so turnovers could make a huge difference in the outcome of this game. Both teams will need to protect the ball and capitalize on opportunities created by turnovers.

Key Players to Watch

Cleveland

• Juan Munoz (Running Back): Munoz is Cleveland’s leading rusher, averaging 89.1 yards per game. His performance will be key in keeping the La Cueva defense on its heels.
• Jordan Hatch (Quarterback): Hatch is Cleveland’s main passing threat, averaging 174.4 passing yards per game. He will need to be efficient and take advantage of La Cueva’s defensive gaps.
• Brendan Cochrane (Defensive Leader): Cochrane is a key figure in Cleveland’s defense and will need to step up to stop La Cueva’s balanced attack.

La Cueva

• Jordan Hatch (Quarterback): Hatch leads La Cueva’s offense and has been key in both the passing and running games.
• Riley Haussler (Defensive Leader): Haussler is a key player on the defensive side and will need to make plays to disrupt Cleveland’s offense.
• Jacob Maldonado (Receiver): Maldonado is a top target for Hatch in the passing game and could be key in exploiting Cleveland’s secondary.

Prediction

Both teams come into the game with impressive records and powerful offenses, but La Cueva has a slight edge with their undefeated record and balanced approach. Cleveland’s offense is potent, but La Cueva’s defense and experience in high-pressure games could give them the advantage.