The sophomore running back wasted no time in announcing his presence during the Buffaloes’ season opener at Elk Grove last Friday

On Manteca’s second possession, Juarez broke the ice with an 80-yard jaunt to the end zone.

He was only getting warmed up on a night in which he rambled for 235 yards and four scores on 17 carries. Juarez also busted loose for a 78-yard touchdown early in the second quarter for a 22-0 lead.

“It’s a nice start (to the season),” Juarez said, “but there’s more to come.”

With a Division I offer already in hand, the 5-foot-10, 180-pound prodigy goes into his second varsity campaign as the bell-cow back for the Buffaloes’ power-running offense. He was promoted from the JV early last season and showed his game-breaking abilities at the outset, but the return of then-senior star Bryson Davis from injury limited Juarez’s touches the rest of the way.

“I want to show what I’m capable of and prove that I can be the No. 1 running back at the varsity level,” Juarez said. “But I’m also taking on extra responsibilities as a leader on the team.”

Manteca finished with 339 rushing yards and 452 total. The Buffs aim to be more balanced compared to recent seasons.

“Spreading the ball around is a good thing,” Juarez said. “This year, we’re able to give teams another look by expanding the playbook. We’re giving other people touches, it’s not just the running backs.”