'I have confidence in our team': No. 23 Jefferson optimistic in quest for playoff berth
Editor's Note: The El Paso Times continues its high school football countdown with No. 23 Jefferson, which begins practice on Aug. 7. The regular season begins Aug. 24-25.
Outlook for 2023 season
The Silver Foxes figure to be in the hunt for one of the four playoff berths in Class 5A Division II. Jefferson has a young team, but the Silver foxes are well coached and typically improve as the season progresses. With small numbers on the varsity roster, staying healthy will be key and so will having a good start early in the season to gain confidence.
A look back at 2022
The Silver Foxes missed the playoffs, finishing 3-7 with wins against Horizon, Irvin and Bowie and a close loss to El Paso High.
How the offense rates
Miguel Rubio will be a leader on offense for the Silver Foxes at running back and will get help from quarterback Jesus Gomez and wide receiver Anthony Amigo. Rubio rushed for 1,084 yards last season and scored five touchdowns. Jesus Ochoa will help anchor the offensive line.
How the defense rates
Linebackers Alec Zsako and Sergio Rodarte will be key on defense and up front, much is expected of sophomore Derek Palacios and expect Rubio to contribute on defense at cornerback or linebacker.
What the coach is saying
"We have a young team," Silver Foxes coach Tony Martinez said. "But we have some young kids who work hard and will give us a great effort. Miguel back at running back will be key for us. He's a veteran player and he's talented."
What the players are saying
"Every game, we'll give it our best shot and we'll come ready to play," Ochoa said. "We just have to continue to show growth and be consistent every day. Miguel will be key to our team, he's a talented player in the backfield and a leader for us."
Added Rubio: "I have confidence in our team and we'll battle every day. We have to work hard and have trust in each other. We are going to have a new offense and that'll benefit us. My goals personally are to rush for 1,100 yards and to make the All-Star game in El Paso after the season."
More: HS football rankings Where do El Paso's 32 high school football teams rank in the 2023-24 season?
Felix F. Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; @Fchavezeptimes on X
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Jefferson High School football optimistic in quest for playoff berth
