Downey is 8-2 against Pitman since August of 2015 and they'll have a chance to extend that dominance on Friday. The Knights will face off against the Pride at 7:00 p.m. Downey knows how to get points on the board -- the team has finished with 31 points or more in their past five contests -- so hopefully Pitman likes a good challenge.
Downey not only won on Friday, but they posted their biggest win since October 24, 2024 (when they won 66-7). They really took it to Gregori for the full four quarters, racking up a 45-8 win. The Knights haven't had any issues with the Jaguars recently, as the game was their eighth consecutive victory against them.
Elias Haynes produced another solid effort rushing for 101 yards and two TDs on only 12 carries, while also picking up 48 receiving yards. His rushing production has been exceptional recently as that marked his fourth straight game with at least 101 rushing yards. Another player making a difference was Julian Masaniai, who threw for 146 yards and a pair of touchdowns while completing 80% of his passes.
They were just one part of a punishing run game: Downey was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 233 rushing yards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now rushed for at least 169 rushing yards in five consecutive games.
John Hinchey
| 08/22/25 vs Del Oro | 4 |
| 08/29/25 @ Elk Grove | 4 |
| 09/19/25 @ Edison | 6 |
| 10/03/25 vs Gregori | 8 |
Another reason for the win was Downey's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for 5.5 sacks. Leading the way was John Hinchey with three. He also set a new season-high mark in total tackles with eight. Downey received some extra help from Antwain Harper, whose fumble return for a touchdown made for one of the most unforgettable moments.
Meanwhile, there's no place like home for Pitman, who bounced back after a loss on the road back in September. They enjoyed a cozy 29-12 win over Modesto on Friday.
Downey better keep an eye on Rj Wilharm. He was instrumental in Pitman's win, throwing for 190 yards and two TDs while completing 71.4% of his passes. That's the most passing yards Wilharm has posted since back in October of 2024.
Pitman's record now sits at 4-2. As for Downey, the victory got them back to even at 3-3.
Everything came up roses for Downey against Pitman when the teams last played back in October of 2024, as the squad secured a 56-3 win. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Knights since the team won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
