QUARTERFINAL BATTLE: Moriarty Pintos vs. Chaparral Lobos

The Class 4A New Mexico state football tournament’s quarterfinals are set to deliver a compelling clash as the No. 3 Chaparral Lobos host the No. 6 Moriarty Pintos. The Lobos, riding momentum on their home field, will face a stout Moriarty team fresh off a dominant 49-13 first-round victory.

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🐺 #3 Chaparral Lobos: The Home-Field Powerhouse

The 7-3, Chaparral Lobo’s offense is a dynamic unit, averaging 345.3 yards per game, with a solid mix of rushing and passing. They have not lost a home game this season.

• Key Offensive Duo: Senior quarterback Israel Nieto is a major threat, leading the offense with 156.6 passing yards per game and contributing significantly (7.4 yards per carry) on the ground. He connects with senior receiver Aaron Eliserio, who averages 51.8 receiving yards per game.
• Ground Attack: Junior running back Raul Lopez is the heart of the run game, racking up 103.6 rushing yards per game and leading the team with 13 total touchdowns. Lopez presence ensures the Pintos can’t just drop back into pass coverage.
• Challenge: The Lobos’ defense will need to contain Moriarty’s dominant running game to keep their high-powered offense on the field. The play of defensive leaders like sophomore Cesar De La Rosa (6.6 tackles/G) will be critical.

🔥 #6 Moriarty Pintos: Ground and Pound Defense

The Moriarty Pintos (6-4) arrive in the quarterfinal after dismantling Portales 49-13 in the first round, showcasing their powerful run-first philosophy. The Pintos are a run-heavy team, accumulating an impressive 268.0 rushing yards per game.

• Rushing Machine: The offense is spearheaded by junior Mario Romero, who not only averages 109.8 rushing yards per game but also anchors the defense with 7.2 tackles per game and 0.8 sacks per game. Expect the Pintos to lean heavily on the trio of Romero, Manley-Griego, and Royce Dennison, tiring out the Lobos’ defense in the second half.
• Defensive Pressure: The Pintos’ defensive front, evidenced by their 4A-leading 2.2 sacks per game as a team, aims to disrupt Chaparral’s rhythm. Their ability to force turnovers will be paramount in stopping the Lobos’ balanced attack. Moriarty’s defense is spearheaded by Romero who leads the team with 72 tackles, Dennison with 58 and Abraham Sloan with 51. Marques Romero has a stunning 14 tackles for losses.
• Challenge: Moriarty’s passing game is less utilized, averaging only 20.9 yards per game. To win on the road, they must effectively control the clock with their single-wing/wing-T running game and ensure their defense is ready for Chaparral’s aerial attack.

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📈 Game Outlook: A Clash of Styles

This quarterfinal is a classic contrast: Chaparral’s spread, balanced attack at home versus Moriarty’s trench-based, run-dominant style on the road.

• The Trenches: The game will likely be won or lost at the line of scrimmage. If Chaparral’s stout defensive line can contain Mario Romero and the Pintos’ powerful run game, they will put pressure on the Moriarty offense.
• Explosive Plays: Can Moriarty’s secondary handle Chaparral’s vertical passing threats like Tyvin Howard and Aaron Eliserio? The Lobos have the potential for quick strikes, which could force the Pintos to adjust their offense if they must play from behind.

The winner will earn a spot in the Class 4A Semifinals, and with both teams entering with confidence of a first-round win, expect a physical and hard-hitting affair on Friday at 7 pm in Chaparral.

Matchup	Game Info	Location
#6 Moriarty Pintos (6-4)	Friday, November 14, 2025	Chaparral High School, Chaparral, NM
#3 Chaparral Lobos (7-3)	7:00 PM Kickoff	State Quarterfinal