PREP FOOTBALL: WEST MESA AT A GLANCE
(Another in a continuiing series of previews heading to Opening Day.) Coach: Ron McMath (6th year; 17-33) Last season: 4-6 Returning starters: 5 offense, 2 defense Key players: Brandon Bouldin, sr. (6-3, 175, WR); Gabriel Ramirez, sr. (5-7, 145, QB); Jon Sisneros, sr. (5-5, 140, slot); Devon Gonzales, sr. (6-3, 235, OT); Sevastian Martinez, sr. (5-10, 185, G); D’Angelo McDowell, sr. (5-8, 215, DL); Damien Altimirano, jr. (5-10, 195, jr.); Aaron Martinez, jr. (5-7, 175, LB); Carlos Ruiz, jr. (5-11, 175, S/WR); J.J. Ruiz, jr. (5-10, 200, RB/ LB); Mark Garcia, jr. (5-8, 170, RB).
Outlook: The Mustangs must overcome an inexperienced defense and a (very) inexperienced offensive line if they want to get into contention for a playoff berth. Ramirez is moving from slot to QB, but has experience at this position. The O-line is almost entirely new; if it can block for Ramirez, then Bouldin, one of Class 6A’s more underrated receivers with eight TDs as a junior, could have another stellar campaign. In the wide-open District 4-6A, West Mesa faces the same metaphorical climb: a six-team scrum, all six chasing what is likely to be the only playoff bid this league receives. West Mesa tied for third in district last season. Only seven starters are back, so this might be a bit of a rebuild for McMath. Altimirano and Martinez will be key on the defense from their linebacking slots, but West Mesa has concerns about defending on the perimeter. 2017 SCHEDULE (x-District 4-6A games) Aug. 24, Del Norte (C), 7 p.m. Aug. 31, at St. Pius (C), 7 p.m. Sept. 7, at Volcano Vista (C), 7 p.m. Sept. 14, La Cueva (C), 7 p.m. Sept. 22, Piedra Vista (C), 7 p.m. x-Oct. 5, Highland (C), 7 p.m. x-Oct. 13, at Atrisco Heritage (C), 7 p.m. x-Oct. 21, Albuquerque High (C), 1 p.m. x-Oct. 27, at Valley (M), 7 p.m. x-Nov. 2, at Rio Grande (M), 7 p.m. (C: Community; M: Milne)
Circle the date: It’s difficult to pinpoint one game inside the district that will be more important than any other. If forced to choose, it would be the Oct. 13 matchup with the Jaguars, a team West Mesa beat last year and the team that has led this district the last several years.