The Robertson (Las Vegas, NM) varsity football team is playing a neutral playoff game against West Las Vegas (Las Vegas, NM) today at 1:00 PM at Robertson HS. This game is part of the 2024 Nusenda Credit Union State Football Championships – 3A tournament.

West Las Vegas vs Robertson Football Game Info:

What: New Mexico High School Football Playoffs
Who: West Las Vegas vs Robertson
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:00 p.m.
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Game preview: West Las Vegas vs Robertson

The stage is set for an exciting playoff clash between the West Las Vegas Dons and the Robertson Cardinals. After a tight regular-season contest, where Robertson narrowly defeated West Las Vegas 28-26 on October 11, the two teams are now poised to face off again in a neutral-site playoff game today at 1:00 PM.

Team Profiles:

West Las Vegas (6-5 overall, 2-2 District):
The West Las Vegas Dons enter the game with a solid but hard-fought 6-5 record, having finished second in their district with a 2-2 mark. Known for their balanced offensive attack, West Las Vegas has averaged 24.0 points per game, with quarterback Cj Perea leading the charge. He has been crucial to the team’s offensive success, throwing for 169.1 yards per game and contributing a total of 202.6 yards per game. Additionally, the Dons’ rushing game is paced by Jonathon Gonzales, who averages 35.5 yards per game. Defensively, West Las Vegas is strong, with an average of 58.8 tackles per game, led by Carlo Lucero with 8.6 tackles per contest.

Robertson (9-1 overall, 3-1 District):
On the other side, the Robertson Cardinals have had an outstanding season with a 9-1 record. Their only loss came to St. Michael’s, but Robertson has been a dominant force in the district, finishing with a 3-1 district record. Robertson’s offense has been explosive, averaging an impressive 45.6 points per game. Quarterback Jesse James Gonzalez has been a key contributor, amassing 179.9 passing yards per game and a total of 283.5 yards per game. In the backfield, Gonzalez has also made his mark, rushing for 105.2 yards per game. Defensively, the Cardinals have averaged 71.8 tackles per game, with Paul Duran and Andres Sanchez providing consistent pressure.

Previous Matchup:

In their last meeting on October 11, Robertson edged out West Las Vegas in a dramatic contest, winning 28-26. Robertson came out strong early, leading 14-7 at the end of the first quarter and holding off a late rally by West Las Vegas. The Dons’ offense was relentless, with Perea throwing for over 160 yards, but Robertson’s defense and balanced scoring attack proved to be too much. Despite the loss, West Las Vegas showed they are a resilient team capable of competing at a high level.

Team Stats Comparison:

Offensive Breakdown:

• West Las Vegas:
  • Rushing Yards/Game: 131.3
  • Passing Yards/Game: 180.5
  • Total Yards/Game: 311.7
  • Points/Game: 24.0
• Robertson:
  • Rushing Yards/Game: 209.5
  • Passing Yards/Game: 179.9
  • Total Yards/Game: 389.4
  • Points/Game: 45.6

Defensive Breakdown:

• West Las Vegas:
  • Tackles/Game: 58.8
  • Sacks/Game: 2.3
  • Points Allowed/Game: 16.7
• Robertson:
  • Tackles/Game: 71.8
  • Sacks/Game: 1.3
  • Points Allowed/Game: 13.2

Common Opponents:

Both teams have faced off against several common opponents this season, and their results provide further context for this playoff matchup. For example, both teams secured wins over Hope Christian and Pojoaque Valley, with Robertson winning in dominant fashion (51-0 over Pojoaque and 34-13 over Hope Christian), while West Las Vegas had a close 41-12 win over Pojoaque and a 35-13 victory over Hope Christian.

Keys to Victory:

For West Las Vegas, controlling the pace of the game will be crucial. Their ability to mix the run and pass, with contributions from Perea and Gonzales, will be key to breaking down Robertson’s defense. Defensively, the Dons will need to find a way to slow down Gonzalez and Robertson’s high-scoring offense, which has been averaging nearly 46 points per game.

For Robertson, continuing their offensive dominance and maintaining their defensive pressure will be important. The Cardinals have been able to put up big points this season, and a strong performance from Gonzalez, both in the air and on the ground, will likely be the difference. Defensively, keeping the Dons from establishing rhythm will be key, as West Las Vegas has shown they can score when given the opportunity.

Game Outlook:

This playoff game promises to be a thrilling rematch between two well-coached, hard-working teams. Robertson’s explosive offense and stout defense have made them a formidable opponent all season, but West Las Vegas will look to avenge their earlier loss with a strong performance. Fans can expect a competitive, high-energy contest as both teams battle for a chance to advance further in the state playoffs.

Final Thoughts:

The stakes are high for both teams, and with the postseason on the line, every play matters. Robertson enters as the favorite with their strong regular-season performance, but West Las Vegas has the talent and determination to cause an upset. With standout players on both sides, this game is one you won’t want to miss. Be sure to tune in as these two Las Vegas teams collide in a high-stakes playoff showdown.