The Merced vs Downey high school football matchup is set to be one of the most anticipated non-conference games of the early 2025 season. On Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7 p.m., the Downey Knights (1-1) will host the Merced Bears (2-0) in Modesto, California. With both teams looking to prove themselves in the Central Section, fans can expect a fast-paced battle under the lights.
Merced vs Downey Football Game Info:
What: California High School Football
Who: Merced vs Downey
When: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 7 PM
Live stream: Watch here
For those unable to attend, digital tickets are available through GoFan, and the game will stream live on the NFHS Network.
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Team Records and Rankings
Coming into this matchup, Merced holds an undefeated record at 2-0, with both wins coming at home. The Bears are currently ranked 180th in California and 23rd in their section, while nationally they sit at No. 2,327. Their strong start has been powered by balanced offensive production and a resilient defense.
Downey, on the other hand, enters at 1-1. The Knights are ranked 181st in California, 24th in their section, and No. 2,356 nationally. Though their record sits at .500, Downey’s offensive firepower has been evident, particularly through the air.
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Recent Performances
- Merced Bears (2-0):
Their last outing was an impressive 45-13 win over Gregori on August 29. That victory highlighted their offensive depth, with strong performances both in the passing game and on the ground. - Downey Knights (1-1):
Downey’s early season has been more uneven. They split their first two games, showing flashes of dominance on offense but also giving up 81 total points across those contests. Defense will be the key if they want to stop Merced’s momentum.
Offensive Matchup Breakdown
The Merced Bears bring a balanced attack:
- Rushing Yards per Game: 208.5
- Passing Yards per Game: 168.5
- Total Offense: 377 yards per game
Quarterback Vicente Cortez (#4) has been central to Merced’s success, averaging 168.5 passing yards and contributing 202 total yards per game. Running back Anthony Tachiera (#22) leads the ground game with 58 rushing yards per contest, while receiver Hayden Czirban (#1) adds 82 receiving yards per game.
The Downey Knights, meanwhile, rely heavily on their passing attack:
- Passing Yards per Game: 279.5
- Total Offense: 400 yards per game
Quarterback Julian Masaniai (#1) has been a standout, averaging nearly 280 passing yards per game and contributing 289.5 total yards per game. His top target, Elias Haynes (#22), averages 129 receiving yards and 52 rushing yards per game, making him one of the most versatile weapons in the Central Section.
Defensive Comparison
Merced’s defense has proven reliable so far:
- 75 tackles per game
- 3.5 sacks per game
Linebacker Vincent Almanza (#12) has been the anchor, averaging 12.5 tackles per game, while Kevin McKain (#54) adds to the pressure up front with a sack per contest.
Downey’s defense, while athletic, has struggled to contain explosive offenses. They average 67 tackles per game, but have not shown much consistency in creating sacks or turnovers. With Merced’s balanced offensive attack, Downey will need its front seven to step up.
Scoring Trends by Quarter
Looking at scoring averages, Merced tends to do most of its damage in the second half:
- 3rd Quarter: 14 points per game
- 4th Quarter: 10 points per game
Downey, on the other hand, finishes strong, averaging 19 points in the fourth quarter. If the game remains close heading into the final minutes, the Knights could have the late-game edge.
Common Opponents
So far, only Merced has faced a common opponent:
- Gregori: Merced defeated Gregori 45-13 on August 29.
- Downey is scheduled to face Gregori later this season on October 3, 2025.
This result gives Merced an early comparative advantage, as they have already proven their ability to dominate a team Downey has yet to see.
Key Players to Watch
- Merced Bears
- QB Vicente Cortez (#4) – 168.5 passing yards per game
- RB Anthony Tachiera (#22) – 58 rushing yards per game
- WR Hayden Czirban (#1) – 82 receiving yards per game
- LB Vincent Almanza (#12) – 12.5 tackles per game
- Downey Knights
- QB Julian Masaniai (#1) – 279.5 passing yards per game
- WR/RB Elias Haynes (#22) – 129 receiving yards, 52 rushing yards per game
- LB Antwain Harper (#26) – 12.5 tackles per game
Both teams feature playmakers capable of changing momentum in a single snap. Cortez and Masaniai’s quarterback duel could ultimately define the outcome.
What’s at Stake
While this is a non-conference matchup, the game carries plenty of weight for both teams:
- Merced is looking to maintain its perfect start and prove it belongs among the top teams in the section.
- Downey hopes to rebound from its early inconsistency and protect home turf with a statement win.
For players, the spotlight also brings recruiting opportunities, with individual performances being watched by college programs across California.
Final Thoughts
The Merced vs Downey matchup promises an exciting contrast in styles. Merced’s balanced offense and steady defense will test Downey’s high-powered passing game. If Cortez and Tachiera control the tempo for the Bears, Merced could leave Modesto with a 3-0 record. However, if Masaniai and Haynes connect often, the Knights have the firepower to pull off a big home win.
With playoff implications down the line, this early-season clash could set the tone for both programs’ 2025 campaigns.
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