Meet the Players of the Game
ELI MEADOR
Bloomfield vs Academy 11/11/23
In a dazzling display of defensive gameness, Eli Meador, the talented junior free safety, has emerged as the San Juan County Sports Player of the Game. Meador’s standout performance was a key factor in the Bobcats’ resounding 55-0 victory over Albuquerque Academy in the Class 4A quarterfinals at Bobcat Stadium last weekend.
The Bobcats’ defense, led by Meador, stifled the Chargers throughout the entirety of the shortened contest, showcasing an exceptional level of dominance rarely seen on the football field. Meador’s three interceptions were instrumental in shutting down the Academy’s offensive efforts, contributing to the team’s overall success.
A multi-sport athlete, Meador draws on his speed honed in track and field during the spring. This diverse athletic background has undoubtedly played a role in his remarkable contributions to the Bobcats’ football team during their unprecedented run this season. After 11 games, the team has shutout 8 of the those, a testament to their collective strength and Meador’s individual impact.
What sets Meador apart is not only his athleticism but also his continuous growth, especially as the team geared up for the playoffs. His ability to read the game, make crucial interceptions, and contribute to the overall defensive strategy has been a driving force behind the Bobcats’ success.
Meador’s three interceptions against Albuquerque Academy were nothing short of spectacular, one of which he returned for a 25-yard touchdown in the first quarter. This early touchdown not only set the tone for the game but also highlighted Meador’s ability to turn defensive plays into offensive opportunities.
The Bobcats’ defense, bolstered by Meador’s stellar performance, held the Chargers to a mere 11 yards in total offense. His consistent presence on the field, coupled with his tackles and disruptions in both the backfield and passing game, played a pivotal role in securing the shutout victory.
Meador’s versatility and reliability on the field make him a standout player, earning him the well-deserved title of the San Juan County Sports Player of the Game.
As the Bobcats advance further in the playoffs, Eli Meador’s star continues to rise, and his contributions will undoubtedly be a key factor in the team’s pursuit of championship glory. With his exceptional skill set and commitment to excellence, Meador is poised to leave an indelible mark on the San Juan County sports scene.
PIEDRA VISTA’S
BRIGHAM KEISER
11/10/2023 Panthers host Valley Vikings
“Keiser’s Heroics Propel Panthers to Semifinals” –
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Junior Brigham Keiser took center stage, driving the Piedra Vista High School football team to a commanding 30-6 victory over the Valley Vikings in the Class 5A state playoffs quarterfinals.
The game kicked off with both teams showcasing efficient ball movement. However, it was on the third drive that Keiser’s speed and agility took the spotlight. Executing a brilliantly crafted double-pass trick play, Keiser displayed his versatility. Positioned in the backfield, he received a pitch from Mason Courtney, connecting with Hunter Schwartz for a 22-yard gain. This set the stage for a 5-yard touchdown pass to Felipe Begaye, marking the Panthers’ entry on the scoreboard.
Keiser’s impact persisted into the second quarter as he led the team on a 53-yard drive, showcasing elusive moves that made it difficult for Valley defenders to contain him. The drive concluded with Keiser scoring a two-yard touchdown run, further solidifying Piedra Vista’s lead. Despite an injury sidelining Begaye, Keiser’s leadership and offensive dominance propelled the team into halftime with an impressive 21-0 lead.
The third quarter witnessed a shift in the Panthers’ offensive strategy to a wildcat formation, placing Keiser in direct command. He spearheaded a 45-yard drive, culminating in another one-yard touchdown run and extending the lead to 28-6. Keiser’s contributions proved crucial as the Panthers faced adversity with the absence of their starting quarterback.
Piedra Vista’s defense complemented Keiser’s dominance, restricting Valley’s quarterback to limited completions and forcing crucial turnovers. Senior Max Coleman’s two sacks, including a pivotal one in Valley’s end zone for a safety, sealed the Panthers’ resounding victory.
Keiser’s exceptional performance, with 25 carries for 168 yards and two touchdowns, earned him the well-deserved title of the San Juan County Sports Player of the Game. Keiser’s evolution from an outside linebacker to a dynamic running back, emphasizing his instrumental role in the team’s success.
Nov 4th
TRel Griego
Farmington at Volcano Vista 11/4/23
Trel Griego, a pivotal figure in the Farmington Scorpions’ thrilling victory over the Volcano Vista Hawks, showcased his exceptional skill and leadership on the field. As the team’s quarterback, Griego played a critical role in steering the Scorpions to success, particularly with his remarkable passing ability and strategic decision-making.
During this first playoff showdown, Griego exhibited resilience and composure, especially after encountering early setbacks. His ability to maintain focus and rally the team was evident as he orchestrated the offense, making crucial connections with his teammates to secure pivotal touchdowns.
Griego’s performance was highlighted by his exceptional passing accuracy, amassing an impressive 418 yards and completing 25 of 43 passes. His synergy with his receivers, notably connecting with players like Jace Vigil and Michael Beck for multiple touchdowns, proved instrumental in shaping the Scorpions’ commanding lead.
Not only did Griego excel offensively, but he also showcased resilience and a determined spirit in the face of pressure. Even when the Hawks showed signs of a comeback, Griego’s leadership on the field remained unwavering, guiding the Scorpions to maintain their edge and eventually secure the hard-fought victory.
Furthermore, Griego’s contribution to the team extended beyond his individual stats. His ability to rally and motivate his teammates, combined with the remarkable performance of the Scorpions’ defense that forced five turnovers, solidified their triumph and served as a significant morale boost for the team heading into the Quarterfinals.
Trel Griego’s standout performance and leadership were instrumental in the Scorpions’ success, underscoring his significance as a key player driving the team’s aspirations in the playoffs.
Bayloy Seabolt
Aztec hosted Taos 11/5/23.
Baylor Seabolt, the senior running back for the Aztec Tigers, was a defining force in their hard-fought 21-14 victory over the Taos Tigers in the opening round of the 4A New Mexico State Football Championships. His exceptional talent, agility, and remarkable on-field performance played a pivotal role in securing the Aztec Tigers’ triumph in this tightly contested match.
Seabolt’s impact on the game was evident throughout, notably when he exhibited incredible speed and strength, making a decisive 65-yard touchdown run that showcased his exceptional skill set. This pivotal play not only closed the gap in the score but also demonstrated Seabolt’s ability to break through the opposing defense with finesse and determination.
Amassing an outstanding 206 rushing yards on just 16 carries, Seabolt’s contributions to the Aztec offense were instrumental in driving the team forward. His remarkable performance, he also a 32-yard touchdown run that sealed the victory at 21-14, solidified his position as a standout player and a driving force behind the Aztec Tigers’ success.
While Seabolt’s incredible rushing abilities and strategic plays were fundamental in shaping the outcome of the game, his impact extended beyond statistics. His leadership on the field, combined with the collective effort of the team, played a significant role in overcoming the challenges posed by the formidable Taos Tigers.
As Aztec moves forward in the State Football Championships, Seabolt’s standout performance will likely continue to be a crucial factor in the team’s success. His resilience, skill, and unwavering determination showcased in this exhilarating victory are poised to serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for the Aztec Tigers as they progress further in the State Playoffs.
