Portales star commits to Tech

While the state’s top offensive high school football recruit waits to make his decision on college, New Mexico’s premier defensive recruit is off the market.

Portales defensive end Philip Blidi has verbally committed to Texas Tech, Blidi announced on his Twitter account.

The 6-foot-4, 235-pound Blidi, a senior, chose the Red Raiders over New Mexico, New Mexico State, SMU and UTEP. Blidi will be in Albuquerque with the Rams on Aug. 24 when Portales plays Hope Christian at Milne Stadium.

Blidi registered 52 solo tackles, including 14 for a loss, last season for Portales.

The state’s other highly regarded recruit — La Cueva wide receiver Connor O’Toole — has yet to commit.