The Rio Linda Knights fought hard in their season opener against the Lincoln Zebras, but ultimately fell just short, losing 45-40 in a thrilling game that nearly came down to the final minutes.
The Knights came out strong, keeping pace with the Zebras in a high-scoring first half, outscoring them 22-13 in the second quarter to go into halftime with a narrow 28-26 lead. The Rio Linda secondary played a huge role in the momentum shift, with a key interception and a pick-six that kept the Knights in the game.
However, the team struggled to find their rhythm after the break, getting shut out 12-0 in the third quarter. Despite the setback, the Knights rallied in the fourth, outscoring the Zebras 12-7. They closed the gap, but it wasn’t quite enough to overcome the deficit.
This game marked the return of Head Coach Jack Garceau, who is back at the helm for the first time since the 2019 season.
A Night to Remember: Dedication of Michael Morris Field
While the game had its ups and downs, the night was a resounding success for the Rio Linda community. Before kickoff, the newly refreshed field was officially dedicated to Michael Morris, the legendary coach and athletic director who has been a mentor and role model to countless student-athletes.
The dedication honored Morris’s immense contributions and unwavering dedication to the football program, the school and the community, celebrating a legacy that has shaped generations of young people in Rio Linda.
Despite the final score, the true victory was the pride and spirit that filled the stadium, a testament to the community’s support for its team and its legends.
Check out the photos below to relive the excitement of the game and the special field dedication ceremony!
