Rams host Robertson in season debut

After the weeks of two-a-days, the scrimmages and the battle for quarterback, the Portales Rams are finally ready for the season opening game against the Robertson Cardinals. Last season the Cardinals defeated the Rams 33-20 in Las Vegas.

Here are four things to watch out for in the season opener, set for a 7 p.m. kickoff at Greyhound Stadium.

Portales’ X-Factor: Sophomore Arjay Ortiz is currently listed as a free safety, but last year he played a little bit on the offensive side of the ball and had the second-most passing yards on the team.

Ortiz completed just two passes last season for 47 total yards, but those were his only two passing attempts and both went for touchdown passes. If number 4 gets the ball in the backfield, the Rams need to look out for a trick play.

On defense, Ortiz led the team with four interceptions totaling 84 return yards. He also recovered one fumble.

Other Key Players on Offense: Robertson’s starting quarterback from last season graduated.

Running back Joseph Paul Griego had the second-most rushing yards for the Cardinals last season. He finished the 2014 campaign with 750 rushing yards on 77 carries and nine touchdowns. Senior JR Gonzalez led Robertson with 250 receiving yards and three touchdown grabs as well.

Other Key Players on Defense: Senior linebacker Francisco Arguello led the team with 64 total tackles and senior defensive end Amos Rivera led the team with nine sacks to go along with his 51 total tackles, ranking him third on the team last season.

Strength on Strength: Both Portales and Robertson are known for their running games, with Griego for Robertson and senior Bronte Staugaard for Portales. Whichever team can control the clock and possession time with their rushing attack will likely come away 1-0.