PIMA, Ariz. — Pima football opened a new era Friday night, taking the field for the first time in its brand-new stadium. The Roughriders drew a large, enthusiastic crowd for the long-awaited debut, but visiting Round Valley came away with a 36-0 win to stay unbeaten.
While the result wasn’t what the home fans hoped for, the night marked a milestone for Pima athletics. Students, families and alumni filled the stands, and the atmosphere carried the energy of a playoff game.
On the field, Round Valley (3-0) leaned on junior running back Brody Crick, who totaled 162 rushing yards and three touchdowns while also catching a 6-yard touchdown pass. He scored on runs of 18, 25, and 30 yards. Titan Meyers tacked on a 25-yard touchdown run in the final minute.
The Roughriders (1-2) showed flashes on offense behind quarterback Ryett McBiles, who completed 9 of 17 passes for 122 yards. Joe Palmer carried 13 times for 26 yards, but Pima’s ground game was limited by Round Valley’s defense, which forced three fumbles and an interception.
In total, Pima finished with 154 yards of offense — 122 through the air and 32 on the ground. Round Valley tallied 346 yards, including 276 rushing. Kage Finch went 6 of 17 for 70 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions for the Elks.
Pima will look to regroup quickly, with another home game next Friday against Willcox.
