PHS faces Hope Christian in opener

PORTALES — Over the past few seasons, the Portales High football team has established itself among the top programs in Class 4A.

Prior to the COVID-shortened spring season with no New Mexico Activities Association playoffs, the Rams had reached at least the Class 4A state semifinals for five consecutive campaigns, including titles in 2016 and 2019.

PHS, which was 4-1 in the spring with the loss coming at rival Lovington, is looking to make another potential title run this fall, beginning with Saturday’s 5 p.m. season opener against Hope Christian in Albuquerque.

“We found out some things on Friday night (in a scrimmage against Las Vegas Robertson at PHS) that we need to improve on,” said Rams coach Jaime Ramirez, entering his 10th season at the helm. “But we also looked good in some areas.”

On offense, sophomores Elijah Kladiihbah and Devin Diaz are competing for the quarterback position. Ramirez said that heading into Saturday’s tilt, neither had clearly established himself as the frontrunner.

“They seem to be taking things in stride,” Ramirez said. “What I keep telling them is it’s a process. We’re going to try to set things up for them to be successful.”

Seniors Ethan Conrow and Brandon Blidi may alternate in the Rams’ single-back offensive set. Conrow has a bit more experience.

“I think we’re going to be strong this year,” said Conrow, who will also play linebacker on defense. “Last year, we were pretty disappointed about the loss, but I think we didn’t only improve our skills (since then), but we’ve improved our minds.”

Seniors L.J. Jackson and Brayden McGill bring some experience to the wide receiver spots. Sophomores Andrew Ontiveros and Zane Mayberry should man the slot receiver positions, Ramirez said.

The line is expected to consist of seniors Ibis Melendez at right tackle, Dylan Looney at left guard and Michael Newell at left tackle, with juniors Nick Lavelle at right guard and T’Ray Price at center.

“I think our line is a lot stronger,” Conrow said. “Offensively, I think we’re going to do some good things this season.”

The Rams have a number of new faces on the defensive side of the ball as well. Looney at nose guard and senior Braydon Mignard at end bring some experience, with Melendez filling the other line position.

Diaz and Mayberry are expected to start at outside linebacker for the Rams, with Blidi at strong-side linebacker, Conrow at weak-side linebacker and senior Cade Cameron at middle linebacker. The secondary consists of Jackson and senior Jacob Romero at the corners, and Ontiveros at free safety.

“I’m just excited,” said Cameron, who also serves as a backup running back and wide receiver on offense. “Last year was cut short, but we expect to have a full 13-game season if we make it to the (4A state) championship.

“Overall, we’re pretty deep (on defense). If somebody gets tired or (hurt), it’s a ‘next-man-up’ mentality.”

Conrow is expected to handle punting chores for the Rams, with either senior Eric Ramirez or junior Manuel Aranda doing place-kicking and kickoff duties.

As is his wont, Ramirez said it’s way too early to even think about 4A District 3/4 foes Silver, Lovington and Ruidoso.

“Honestly, we’re just focused on Hope Christian right now,” he said.