Fresno State football held its Spring Preview in front of hundreds of fans on Saturday.

The Bulldogs displayed their players’ progression on both sides of the ball for the first time in front  of the Red Wave since November 2021. 

Despite injuries hindering Fresno State’s highly touted offense, the practice was considered a success by head coach Jeff Tedford.

“We got great work in, and got to see a lot of people play. We had to improvise a bit being down an offensive lineman, so we had to get creative with a bit of scrimmage and 7-on-7 stuff… It was good and we came out healthy, which is one of the objectives coming out of the last practice,” Tedford said. 

Fresno State’s offense began taking shots early, with senior quarterback Jake Haener connecting with Josh Kelly on a deep pass on the second play of the game. 

The play was the first of many displays of athleticism from Haener, who seems to be at his healthiest point since the beginning of last season. Heading into his third consecutive season as the ‘Dogs starter, he sees potential for this squad to grow together. 

“We have guys that are going to do great things mentality and toughness-wise and continue to build us on offense, and I’m excited,” Haener said.

Tedford matched Haener’s excitement as he praised his quarterback’s progression. 

“He’s a great student of the game and a great leader. He’s like another coach on the field, so it’s really nice to have him out there. Just to see him each and every day, he does some things that are pretty amazing, so he’s a really special player,” Tedford said.

Although Haener has solidified his spot as Fresno State’s starter, there is a battle for the backup quarterback role. Freshman Jaylen Henderson and sophomore Logan Fife displayed their talents through multiple drives in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 play. 

Both quarterbacks participated in the Spring Preview, with an on-the-run throw play from Henderson to receiver Zane Pope who made a diving catch, and a near 50-yard touchdown pass from Fife. 

Fife and Henderson also fought for this spot last season, but the story remains the same with the backup spot still up for grabs.

“I don’t believe there’s a clear-cut No. 2, so it’s going to be a competitive camp. No decisions are going to be made until then… They’re both athletic, and they bring similar attributes to the game but really it’s about putting everyone in a position to be successful,” Tedford said.  

While there were flashes of offensive potential, the ‘Dogs’ defense brought an explosive energy. 

“Throughout the spring, we’ve seen a lot of progress with the defense. Guys are doing a lot of good things with [the] fundamentals and techniques… The whole crew brings energy, but it takes the kids to take the leadership and translate it onto the field,” Tedford said.

A defensive standout in terms of leadership was All-Mountain West defensive back Evan Williams. Last season’s Mountain West leading tackler highlighted the team’s mentality as it heads out of the spring season. 

“Our major point of emphasis is being a defense that’s relentless, that’s flying all over the field. When you’re watching, you say, ‘Damn these guys do not stop. They fly to the ball,’” Williams said. 

Junior defensive back Cam Lockridge was another example of an energetic defense. 

The Reedley College transfer let his presence be known early with a booming hit on wide receiver Nikko Remigio. He then followed the hit with an interception against Fife in his very first drive. 

Fresno State’s defensive line players earned their thanks as they flashed plays of dominance during the preview. After losing three positional starters, the ‘Dogs’ defensive front seemed to be a concern heading into this season. 

However, led by senior Matt Lawson, the line gave its quarterbacks fits with multiple sacks and tipped passes throughout the game. Even when the line did not get to the quarterback, its pressure forced a multitude of scramble and play-action pass plays. 

While the defensive line made plays, Tedford reiterated that it was a battle up from both sides in the trenches. 

“Our defense did well sometimes, and offense did well sometimes. That’s what you want, right? If it was one-sided, we’d leave here feeling good about one side, but it was really nice to see some matchups,” Tedford said. 

While the event marked the end of the spring season, it also served as the beginning of Tedford’s new tenure as Fresno State’s head coach. 

“It’s been awesome. I’ve enjoyed every single day, and the coaching staff has done a great job,” he said. “We have an amazing team character-wise. These kids come out here and work every day, and it’s just a treat to be around.”