Video: Teton Saltes ultimate highlights
See the Valley High big man in football action.Grant Hermanns vs.
Teton Saltes could be billed as the immovable object against the irresistible force.
One of the most interesting - and potentially explosive - matchups of the football season will be on display Friday night at Community Stadium when
Valley (Albuquerque) plays host to defending Class 6A state champion
Rio Rancho in the season opener for both teams.
Grant Hermanns, Rio Rancho
Courtesy photo
Hermanns, a 6-foot-6, 255-pound senior offensive tackle, will lead Rio Rancho, while Saltes, a 6-6, 250-pound senior defensive end, will be a key performer for Valley, which is the smallest 6A school in the state. It will be a game within the game and could draw a large crowd, including college scouts. Both players have multiple college scholarship offers, with Hermanns being ranked as the No. 1 player in the state and Saltes rising like a meteor after playing just eight varsity games.
Rio Rancho coach Dave Howes pointed out, "Saltes plays the right side and Grant is our left tackle, so we'll see them matching up the whole game. Grant has a hip flexor and is a little stiff. He was out a week. He did his rehab and is ready to go."
Asked about colleges that might be represented, Howes noted, "Washington State and Nevada are so heavy on Grant that I wouldn't be surprised if they send somebody. Florida called and showed some interest."
Howes watched Saltes in a scrimmage and observed, "He did a pretty good job of moving around the field. He played hungry and I thought he did a real good job."
Valley's defensive coordinator, Estevan Lucero, agreed that the matchup of the two standout linemen "should be a great battle. Teton definitely has his hands full. He has improved a ton. It will be a great showcase for both of these athletes. (Hermanns) has a slew of offers. He looks as good (physically) in pads as he can. This is probably the first year I can remember that we've (the state) had a lineman so highly touted."
Valley athletic director Joe Coleman estimates that the game could draw "around 5,000-6,000 " fans.
