Dayton Defeats South River 41-6 in Game Between Major Matchups

Dayton football defeated South River 41-6 on Saturday, October 9, in a one-sided matchup sandwiched between two significant contests. The victory improved Dayton to 5-2 and provided an important confidence boost after losing at home to New Providence 41-21 the previous week.

The Bulldogs dominated South River (0-7) from the opening minutes, establishing a 28-point halftime lead en route to the final 34-point victory margin.

Quarterback Adrian Bernknopf orchestrated the offensive performance, throwing three touchdown passes. He opened the scoring with a perfectly thrown 75-yard touchdown pass to Jackson Babiarz in the opening quarter. In the second quarter, Bernknopf connected with Kevin Lynch on a 31-yard touchdown pass. In the third quarter, Bernknopf threw his third touchdown pass of the game, a 5-yard strike to Kevin Paiva. The touchdown pass was Bernknopf’s 19th of the season.

Dayton’s defense contributed to the scoring when Tyler Fuscaldo blocked a punt in the opening quarter. Kevin Paiva recovered the blocked punt and scored on the scramble, extending Dayton’s early lead to 13-0. Fuscaldo also scored on a 20-yard run in the second quarter.

Connor Lezerovich scored on a 2-yard run in the second quarter for the Bulldogs.

South River’s only score came on a 4-yard touchdown run by Dominic Harris in the second quarter.

Despite the lopsided defeat, South River carries historical significance in high school football. The program produced notable alumni including Joe Theismann, Drew Pearson, and Kenny Jackson. Under legendary head coach Rich Marchesi, who is in his 40th season, the Rams have lost 16 of their last 17 games.

Dayton will face a far more formidable challenge next Friday when the Bulldogs host undefeated Highland Park at 7 p.m.

FAQ

Q: What was the final score of the Dayton vs. South River football game?
A: Dayton defeated South River 41-6 on Saturday, October 9, 2026. The Bulldogs established a 28-point halftime lead and dominated throughout the game.

Q: Who were the key scorers for Dayton?
A: Quarterback Adrian Bernknopf threw three touchdown passes to Jackson Babiarz (75 yards), Kevin Lynch (31 yards), and Kevin Paiva (5 yards). Tyler Fuscaldo blocked a punt and scored on the recovery, and also scored on a 20-yard run. Connor Lezerovich scored on a 2-yard run.

Q: What is Dayton’s record after this victory?
A: Dayton improved to 5-2 with the victory. The win came after a 41-21 home loss to New Providence the previous week.

Q: What notable alumni did South River produce?
A: South River, a tradition-rich program, produced Joe Theismann, Drew Pearson, and Kenny Jackson among other notable football players. The program currently has struggled, losing 16 of its last 17 games under legendary head coach Rich Marchesi, who is in his 40th season.

Q: What is Dayton’s next matchup?
A: Dayton will host undefeated Highland Park on Friday at 7 p.m., presenting a far more formidable challenge than the South River game.