Last year’s Modesto Metro Conference champions Downey came out and rocked Pitman High in the season opener, 30-14 ,after jumping out to an early lead and never letting up.

 “Downey is pretty good. You have to be ready for every gimmick. They show you various formations and are really good at running routes and that hurt the coverage,” said Pitman assistant coach Chris Wolfley.

Taking advantage of a less experienced team, Downey went up 22-0 at the end of the half and by the third quarter the Pitman Pride just couldn’t find their groove or shake off the Knights.

“They have a good ball club. I’m not convinced we played the best, but they made us feel like we did. It’s what they do. They showed us everything,” said Wolfley.

Starting quarterback Jacob Perez eased his way into the starting role but never found much of a groove.

The Pride offense didn't find the end zone until the fourth quarter when Ryan Yniquez and Titus Schammel each scored a touchdown as they outscored the Knights, 14-8, in the second half.

It also marks the first time the Knights have defeated the Pride in their fifth meeting.

Pitman’s next game will be their home opener against Lincoln 7:30 p.m. Friday.

“Back to the drawing board for us...gotta get good in a hurry,” said Wolfley. “Mature kids need to step in for next week. Our kids need to grow up a little bit. Tough struggle, but [they'll] learn to fight through it.”