File photo by Matt Weir / The Collegian
Fresno State Bulldogs
(1-0, 0-0 WAC)
vs.
Utah State Aggies
(1-1, 0-0 WAC)
Breakdown: Bulldogs
After extending Coach Pat Hill’s season-opener win streak to seven games two weeks ago, the ‘Dogs look to go 2-0, this time on the road.
Facing Western Athletic Conference rival Utah State, the game marks the first intra-conference meeting this season for the two teams. The Bulldogs will have to look for other players to spark their offensive production as running back Robbie Rouse is out with shoulder and ankle injuries.
The vacancy allows reserve running back A.J. Ellis, to fill in and show the coaching staff that he can carry the load. Adding to the major offensive loss is big time playmaker Devon Wylie being out for a large part of the season after injuring his foot in the Cincinnati game.
In order for the Bulldogs to put up points, they will rely heavily on quarterback Ryan Colburn to have a big game, just as he did in the season opener against the Bearcats.
Shutting down Utah State’s potent offense, in particular dangerous and mobile quarterback Diondre Borel, will be the most important task the Bulldog’s defense will face if they have any hopes in avoiding a shootout.
Breakdown: Aggies
Utah State is coming off a two-game offensive explosion after picking up their first win of the season.
Led by talented senior quarterback Diondre Borel, the Aggies will look to jump out ahead and put up as many points as possible.
With multiple offensive weapons in all the skill positions, Utah State will try to exploit any weaknesses in the Fresno State defense.
Senior running backs Michael Smith and Derrvin Speight will share carries with the absence last year’s leading rusher Robert Turbin to offseason knee surgery.
Both backs were very effective in their first two games collecting a touchdown a piece.
On defense, the Aggies are led by junior linebacker Bobby Wagner who led the team in tackles in last week’s game with 10.
If Utah State hopes to win this week’s game, they must control the game clock by having possession of the ball and keep Fresno State’s offense off the field.
In addition, the Aggies will look to put up a lot of points and hopefully bury the Bulldogs early on in the game.
Keys to Victory
1. Bring the heat
A lot of doubt surrounded Fresno State’s ability to contain mobile quarterbacks in the preseason. After the Cincinnati game, the ‘Dogs answered the call with eight sacks. They will need a similar performance Saturday.
2. Contain Aggie QB Diondre Borel
Last year head coach Pat Hill said Borel “wouldn’t get wet moving around in a shower.” Keeping Borel in the pocket and away from open space will be key.
3. Get ground game going
The ‘Dogs looked uncharacteristically poor in the run game in week one. With Rouse out, the reserve backs will need to get the rushing attack back on track.
Player to watch:
A.J. Ellis, running back
Position match-ups
When Fresno State runs:
Advantage – Utah State
Although the Aggies gave up 218 yards on the ground to Oklahoma RB Demarco Murray, Fresno State has yet to find its identity in the run game. The ‘Dogs don’t have a back of Murray’s talent, either.
When Opponent runs:
Advantage – Fresno State
The Bulldog defense held Cincinnati to just 15 rushing yards, and Utah State’s spread attack is built more to throw than run.
When Fresno State passes:
Advantage – Even
The ‘Dogs looked strong in their week one passing attack with 247 passing yards, but are down a cruicial weapon in Devon Wylie. Utah State’s pass defense allows opposing QBs to only complete 48 percent of their passes. This may be the game’s best matchup.
When Opponent passes:
Advantage – Utah State
Much of Borel’s praise comes because of his scrambling ability, but don’t bypass his arm. Borel threw for 341 yards against No. 7 Oklahoma and 255 yards in three quarters of play agsint Idaho State.
Special teams:
Advantage – Fresno State
Bulldog punter Andrew Shapiro averaged 40 yards per punt in his debut, pinning two inside the 20 yard line, and Kevin Goessling is kicking in the high altitutde.
New team, same concept: Getting to know the Aggies
Matt Weir/Collegian FIle Photo
Player to watch:
Diondre Borel, quarterback
Wins against: Idaho State
Losses to: No. 7 Oklahoma
Head coach: Gary Anderson (second year, 5-9)
Offense: Spread
Defense: 4-3
Key players: QB Diondre Borel, LB Bobby Wagner, RB Derrvin Speight
Series record: Bulldogs lead the series 14-10-1
Last meeting: Fresno State won, 31-27, in Fresno (2009)
Point Spread: Bulldogs are favored by 6 points