NMPreps dives into the first 2A semifinal matchup on Friday night, as the #2 Santa Rosa Lions host the #6 Loving Falcons. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM in Santa Rosa, with a trip to the 2A state championship game on the line.
Matchup:#2 Santa Rosa Lions (8-3) vs. #6 Loving Falcons (8-4)
Date/Time:Friday, November 22, 7:00 PM
Location: Santa Rosa High School
Both programs are aiming to rekindle past glory:
Santa Rosa Lions:Last state championship appearance: 2018 (lost to Eunice).Last state title: 2012, part of a three-peat run from 2010 to 2012.
Loving Falcons: Last state championship appearance: 2003 (lost to Texico).Last state title: Back-to-back championships in 1992 and 1993.
For both teams, this semifinal represents an opportunity to return to championship weekend after years of missing out.
Santa Rosa Lions
The Lions escaped a tough quarterfinal matchup, narrowly defeating #7 Raton 14-12 at home. While their offense struggled to find rhythm, their defense stepped up in critical moments, showcasing the grit that has defined their season.
Loving Falcons
Loving has been a postseason surprise, starting with a 47-0 rout of #11 Cuba in the first round. They followed it up with a dominant 42-20 upset over #3 Legacy Academy in the quarterfinals, fueled by an explosive offense and opportunistic defense.