New Mexico's Gridiron Gladiators: Vote for Your Week 8 Football Phenom!

The high school football fields of New Mexico once again exploded with unparalleled talent and thrilling rivalries in Week 8, spanning October 6th to 12th. As the regular season charges towards its dramatic conclusion, young athletes across the state delivered performances that weren't just exceptional, they were truly legendary, cementing their places in their team's history books and capturing the hearts of fans.

From game-breaking runs to pivotal touchdowns, the competition for Sporting News' New Mexico High School Football Player of the Week is fiercer than ever. It's time for the fans, the true heartbeat of the sport, to weigh in and crown the ultimate gridiron warrior.

Among the spectacular nominees, Diego Casillas from Carlsbad High School showcased incredible power and agility, tearing through defenses with 17 carries for a staggering 169 yards and three breathtaking touchdowns against Hobbs.

His ability to find the endzone repeatedly made him an unstoppable force, demonstrating why he's a crucial component of Carlsbad's offensive arsenal.

Not to be outdone, Rio Rancho High School boasted two phenomenal contenders who wreaked havoc on Cleveland's defense. Running back Malachi Williams was a bulldozer, rumbling for 114 yards and three powerful touchdowns on just 15 carries, leaving defenders in his wake.

Meanwhile, his teammate, wide receiver Jeremiah Hart, displayed remarkable hands and route-running, snatching 11 receptions for 151 receiving yards and two critical touchdowns, proving to be an aerial threat that Cleveland simply couldn't contain.

Out of Piedra Vista, Marcus Gallegos delivered a truly versatile performance.

He dominated on the ground with 14 carries for 126 yards and two rushing touchdowns, but also showcased his receiving prowess with a 16-yard catch that resulted in another crucial touchdown against Farmington. Gallegos proved he's a triple-threat, capable of scoring from anywhere on the field.

Los Lunas High School's Diego Quiñones demonstrated his explosive capabilities, taking 13 carries for an impressive 153 yards and two decisive touchdowns against Valley.

His quick bursts and ability to break tackles made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, propelling Los Lunas to success.

Down in Gadsden, quarterback Isaiah Cox put on a masterclass of dual-threat football against Organ Mountain. He lit up the scoreboard with 280 passing yards and three aerial touchdowns, while simultaneously showing his athleticism by rushing for 142 yards and two more touchdowns on the ground.

Cox was truly the engine driving Gadsden's offense, a living highlight reel.

Centennial High School's Aaron "Deuce" Johnson lived up to his nickname, delivering a double dose of pain to the Onate defense. With 19 carries, he amassed an incredible 203 rushing yards and punched in three touchdowns, displaying an elite combination of speed and power that left Onate struggling to keep pace.

From Deming, Josh Jackson unleashed a ground assault against Alamogordo, carrying the ball 18 times for a dominant 190 yards and an astounding four touchdowns.

Jackson's relentless attack in the red zone was a sight to behold, single-handedly turning the tide for his team.

Finally, Isaiah Ortega of Moriarty High School showcased an absolutely phenomenal individual effort, exploding for 237 yards and four touchdowns on 21 carries against Valencia.

Ortega's game-breaking runs and relentless drive made him an undisputed hero for Moriarty, capping off a truly memorable Week 8.

Now, the power is in your hands. Which of these incredible athletes deserves the title of Sporting News New Mexico High School Football Player of the Week for Week 8? Each contender demonstrated heart, skill, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Your vote celebrates their dedication and impacts their recognition across the state. Cast your vote wisely and help us honor the standout performer who truly dominated the gridiron!