2019 Albuquerque Preseason
Football Capsules
Albuquerque Bulldogs
Is this the year Tim Johnson gets Albuquerque over the hump? The Bulldogs have gone 4-6
each of the last two years and must replace their starting quarterback in Anthone Stevens, but they
have seasoned offensive linemen and linebackers who should form the foundation of a solid team.
Johnson expects much from offensive lineman Carlos Lovato and Samuel Chee; even if it takes a
while for the quarterback situation to resolve itself, the Bulldogs will be stout up front. Defensively,
Luke Mummert and Jorge Bolivar—who combined for a total of 127 tackles last season—will lead
the way. Johnson also said to look out for running back Alexander Ortiz, a former gymnast, and
wide receiver Jonathan Ortega.
Artisco Heritage Jaguars
A huge step forward for Atrisco Heritage in 2017 was negated a year later as the Jaguars fell
from seven wins to 1-9 in 2018. What will it take for AH to get back on track? For one, shore up a
defense that allowed 45 or more points in eight games last year. Senior linebacker Leo Gonzales
will lead the way on that front, and the Jaguars need senior cornerback Julio Borroel to step up
and lead the defensive backfield. Senior quarterback Carlos Salazar has the chance to be among
the best in the city, and his connection with wideout Zach Carmignani should only grow this year.
Cibola Cougars
Cibola announced it was back last year after winning six games, including a playoff win over
Mayfield, after totaling just five wins in 2016 and 2017 combined. But the Cougars will have to get
back to the drawing board in the passing game, as the dynamic duo of quarterback Marcus Steele
and his top target, Nathaniel Manzanares, bid goodbye. Steele was among the best quarterbacks
in the state last season, throwing for 2,716 yards and 31 touchdowns with just six interceptions,
and 12 of those scoring passes went to Manzanares, who hauled in 66 passes for 686 yards. That
followed up a 49-catch season for Manzanares. The Cougars will be led in 2019 by running back
Ryan Cordray, who rushed for 236 yards and three scores as a junior and was also an impactful
linebacker. Mikey Garcia will be a leader of the defense at the free safety position as well, as Cibola
looks to replace valuable starters Steven Bitzer, Elijah Davis and Matthew Sanchez from its defense.
22 2019 Albuquerque High Schools Football Yearbook