After Fresno State lost a solid chunk of its offensive weapons at the end of the 2023 season, there were questions about who quarterback Mikey Keene would look to as his top targets. 

Through five weeks of the season, it’s evident that wide receiver Mac Dalena is one of those options. After catching six balls for 67 yards in the Bulldogs season opener against Michigan on Aug. 31, the senior wideout turned it up a notch. 

During the month of September, Dalena had 16 catches for a team-high 434 receiving yards, averaging over 27 yards per catch. He also led the team with four touchdown catches. That is why he is The Collegian’s Top Dog of the month. 

The San Joaquin Memorial graduate had 235 yards during the ‘Dogs home opener on Sept. 7, the most receiving yards in a game by a Bulldog since Davante Adams who had 264 yards against San Jose State on Nov. 29, 2013. 

Dalena spoke after that game about his relationship with Keene.

“I think we’ve gotten much closer…just kind of creating a brotherhood, more than like a job,” Dalena said. “You know, football’s work, but I think if you can, you can create more of a family and friendship. There’s a lot bigger bonds you can create.”

Prior to being a Bulldog, the local Fresnan went to San Joaquin Memorial High School where he had 149 career receptions, 2,696 receiving yards and 40 total touchdowns across three seasons with the Panthers. 

Fast forward to 2024, Dalena is now in his fifth season with the Bulldogs and in his second year as a full-time starter.