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New Mexico: Local product who quarterbacked Cleveland to a state title … a 2016-17 Lobo Scholar-Athlete.
2017 (Redshirt Freshman Season): Saw action in all 12 games, and earned time at safety by the end of the season … recorded five tackles on the year … had a career-high two in his first game, against Abilene Christian and again in the finale against San Diego State … also had a tackle against Texas A&M.
2016 (Freshman Season): Redshirted.
High School: Lettered at Cleveland High School and coach Heath Ridenour … threw for 2,486 yards and 25 touchdowns with just five interceptions, completing 65.2% of his passes … additionally rushed for 912 yards and nine touchdowns … had a long pass of 76 yards and a long rush of 73, and also caught a 68-yard touchdown … also recorded 41 tackles as a defensive back with three interceptions … as a junior he threw for 1,639 yards and 14 touchdowns with four interceptions … rushed for 729 yards and seven touchdowns … had an 86-yard rushing touchdown … named Gatorade Player of the Year for New Mexico.
Personal: Full name is Gabriel James Ortega … parents are Gabe and Annette Ortega … has a brother, Trey, and a sister, Kyla … birthday is August 30, 1997 … is undecided on a major.