Francis Diaz (3) takes the handoff from Corbin Pierson (2) and follows the block of Corey Schaffer (73) against Millbrook. David Pennock

SHENANDOAH JUNCTION — Both offenses mostly disregarded the opponent’s defense. There were eight touchdowns in the first half alone. But then Millbrook scored five of the first six touchdowns in the second half and finally subdued Jefferson, 62-42, to open its season on a successful note in a game that lasted nearly four hours.

The Cougars never mounted any bothersome pass rush against Millbrook thrower Kaden Buza, who generally stood tall in surveying the Jefferson defense. Buza fired six touchdown passes and generated 355 yards with his completions, as Millbrook overcame a tender one-point deficit at halftime, once taking a 62-35 lead near the end, before finishing with a second-team defense that yielded a score to get Jefferson back within 20 points.

Buza repeatedly found wide receiver Jordan Jackson for touchdowns, first downs and lengthy gainers. Jackson had three touchdown catches among his eight receptions. And his catches were worth 178 yards of Millbrook offense.

When Buza and Jackson weren’t toying with the Cougar defense, then Gavin Evosirch was. Evosirch accounted for four scores, including Millbrook’s first play from scrimmage when he bolted 67 yards to set the tone for the Pioneers’ offensive dominance.

William Harris and Travis Spain (five receptions for 95 yards) each had a touchdown catch, as Millbrook overcame a 28-27 deficit at the half.

Jon Gidney III (13) heads downfield after receiving a pass from Corbin Pierson. David Pennock

Jefferson was able to carry itself along the same touchdown trail, as the Pioneers were traveling for two quarters. But the second half had only Millbrook rollicking along to more and more scores.

With Francis Diaz, Corbin Pierson and John Gidney providing tons of offense, the Cougars kept pace until the third quarter became the territory owned by Boza, Jackson, Evosirch and company.

Pierson enjoyed the same generous pass protection as was being provided for Buza. And Diaz was chipping off the ground yardage, sometimes at 10 yards a clip.

When Millbrook went ahead, 48-35, Jefferson needed an immediate retaliation itself. Instead, the Pioneers counted the next two scores and leaped in front, 62-35, to break meaningful contact.

Before Millbrook’s reserves were summoned, the Pioneers had outpointed Jefferson, 35-7, in the last half alone.

Seniors Chris Dyche (56) and Antione Lewis (15) lead the Cougars in the first game of the season against Millbrook. David Pennock

It was touchdowns on parade. And Millbrook never was slowed by anything Jefferson did with its defense.