Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Staff photo: Matthew Asher Junior Ramirez follows through on a pass attempt during Wednesday’s Ram football practice. Ramirez is one of three juniors, and six players overall, vying for the starting quarterback job.
Staff photo: Matthew Asher Junior Emilio Lovato works on the team’s “four corners” drill Wednesday at practice.
Staff Writer
Last season, the Portales Rams said good-bye to their two senior quarterbacks. Rather than simply naming an heir apparent, coach Jamie Ramirez is holding an open tryout to see who will become the Rams’ newest signal caller.
With six players vying for the job — two sophomores, three juniors and one senior — Ramirez said he won’t award the job until after the Rams’ scrimmage Aug. 28 against the Clovis JV.
Ramirez spoke about all six players and discussed what each player brings to the position, as well as what needs improvement. In no particular order of who may be chosen, we focus on the three juniors in contention for the starting quarterback role.
Junior Ramirez
link Staff photo: Matthew Asher
Junior Ramirez follows through on a pass attempt during Wednesday’s Ram football practice. Ramirez is one of three juniors, and six players overall, vying for the starting quarterback job.
Why he’s considered: As a sophomore, Ramirez was the starting quarterback for the Junior Varsity squad, which means he’s familiar with the position.
Good qualities: “He’s a very athletic person,” Coach Ramirez said. “He runs well with the ball and also throws well.”
Possible downside: Coach Ramirez believes Junior Ramirez will be a talented player, but has shown signs of inconsistency.
Treyton Neece
Why he’s considered: Although Neece didn’t start as a quarterback last season, he was listed on the quarterback depth chart and has experience as a free safety.
Good qualities: “Neece, he has a great work ethic,” Ramirez said. “He does a great job of throwing the ball both for distance as well as accuracy.”
Possible downside: Neece has been bitten by the injury bug, with knee and elbow problems in past years, and the Rams’ spread offense requires a mobile quarterback.
Emilio Lovato
link Staff photo: Matthew Asher
Junior Emilio Lovato works on the team’s “four corners” drill Wednesday at practice.
Why he’s considered: A hunch from the coach. Unlike the rest of the players trying out for the spot, Lovato has no previous quarterback experience. His experience is at slot receiver and strong safety.
Good qualities: “He’s an extremely hard worker,” Coach Ramirez said. “I suggested to him that he tryout for the job.”
Possible downside: Lovato’s work ethic is praised, but he has a larger learning curve than other candidates.
