Serving the High Plains

Rattlers still seek first win

The Rattler’s Zach Martinez shoestring tackles Academy’s wide receiver Thomas Lujan during Friday’s 39-22 loss.

QCS Senior Writer

The Tucumcari Rattlers have to work together as a team, but also be responsible as individuals, Coach Wayne Ferguson is reminding players as they head into Week 3 of the high school football season.

Ferguson said teamwork is essential; if everyone doesn’t follow through on their assignments, the team, 0-2, will continue to struggle.

The Rattlers are coming off a 39-22 loss to Albuquerque Academy. The Rattlers were outscored 32-0 in the second half.

Ferguson said Friday’s home game against the 3A defending state champion Estancia Bears increases the urgency for the Rattlers to correct some issues.

Ferguson said turnovers were key factors in the first two games of the season. He said turnovers stopped offensive drives and led to points for the other teams.

“Everybody knows their assignments, they know what they are responsible for on the field,” Ferguson said. “When they don’t follow through it causes a breakdown in the system.”

Overall the defense needs to do a better job of wrapping up on the tackle and closing up the running lanes, said Antonio Norton Jr., the Rattlers’ nose guard.

Game time is 7 p.m. at the Snake Pit.

In other action:

• The 1-1 Logan Longhorns play at 2 p.m. Saturday at Mesilla Valley in an 8-man matchup.

• The 2-0 San Jon Coyotes play at 4 p.m., Friday against Reserve at Carrizozo in a 6-man contest.