Football Recap: Sandia Matadors vs. Santa Fe Demons
After having lost a blowout in their previous game against La Cueva, Sandia was happy to have turned things around on Friday. They enjoyed a cozy 38-19 victory over the Santa Fe Demons. The Matadors' offense stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most points they've scored all season.

Jahleel Lewis
09/19/25 @ Santa Fe | 2 |
11/08/24 @ Rio Rancho | 1 |
10/18/24 vs West Mesa | 1 |
09/26/24 vs Atrisco Heritage Academy | 1 |
09/19/24 vs Santa Fe | 1 |
Sandia got their win on the backs of several key players, but it was Jahleel Lewis out in front who rushed for 90 yards and two touchdowns on only ten carries, and also threw for 319 yards and one TD. Those two rushing touchdowns gave Lewis a new career-high. 159 of Lewis' passing yards were hauled in by Junior Hogues, who also brought in a receiving touchdown.
Sandia didn't let much get past them through the air: they limited Santa Fe to a completion percentage of just 32%. That dominant aerial defense primarily came from three players: Israel Lopez, Jack Padilla, and Hayeden Frederich, who each logged one passes deflected. Sandia wasn't nearly as limited: they posted one of 65.6%.
Sandia's defense didn't let the opposing QB, get away unscathed either: they got into the backfield for four sacks. That dominant display was truly a team effort as four different players picked up one apiece. Aiden Maldonado got in on the action too, converting a pick into a touchdown.
Despite the loss, Santa Fe still got an impressive performance from Jasper Nelson, who rushed for 238 yards and a pair of scores while picking up 9.2 yards per carry. Nelson was no stranger to the big play, taking off on a dash that went for 65 yards.
Sandia's first victory this season bumped their record up to 1-4. As for Santa Fe, their loss dropped their record down to 3-2.
Sandia didn't take long to hit the field again: they've already played their next matchup, a 37-13 win against Atrisco Heritage Academy on the 26th. As for Santa Fe, they have also already played their next contest, a 53-42 defeat against Eldorado on the 26th.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps