The Dowagiac freshmen football team also opened its season with a win over South Haven.

The Chieftains defeated the Rams 35-6.

Todd McIntyre had three touchdowns, including a 55-yard punt return, while Brendan Murray and Derek Stark also scored.

McIntyre, who also had two interceptions on defense, finished with 65 yards on five carries.

Stark led the team in rushing with 122 yards on five totes, while Murray added 55 yards on just three carries.

Brett Scanlon was 5-for-5 in extra point kicks.

Logan Polomcak led the defense with six tackles.

“We started a little sloppy, but I challenged the kids at half time and they really responded,” Dowagiac coach Tony Scacia said. “We set the tone early in the second half and really gave ourselves some things to build on in the coming weeks.”