Don't join the USC bandwagon, know your facts
By Maggie Thach
The Collegian
I was sitting in my history class when my professor walked in wearing a bright red sweater. He said he wore it to show his Bulldog spirit for the football game this weekend. But he also made sure to let the class know, even though he is in support of Fresno State, the Bulldogs stand no chance of winning. He asked the class who thought the Bulldogs could win. When I raised my hand some students scoffed and said I needed to be realistic.
It seems as if everybody has jumped on the USC bandwagon, the one saying Fresno State will be annihilated by the Trojans, even if they don’t know what they’re talking about.
I’m not arguing that the outcome of this weekend’s game is going to be any different than what naysayers are saying, but I’m arguing with the way they have come to their conclusions. Know your Fresno State football facts before you start judging what this team can or cannot do.
Do students know the Bulldogs’ defense is ranked eighth in the nation in the NCAA in scoring average at 14.8 and 17th nationally in total defense? Or that there has been at least one player named to the Western Athletic Conference’s player of the week every week since the season started?
People are probably thinking this is an easy feat in a weak conference, but Wendell Mathis is ranked 25th in the NCAA in rushing and Garrett McIntyre leads a defense that is 14th in NCAA in pass sacks.
Do students know the quarterback leading this team is probably one of the greatest in school history? Paul Pinegar just broke David Carr’s career touchdown record against Boise State last week, a game many people thought the Bulldogs couldn’t win. But they did.
USC head coach Pete Carroll said, “They [Fresno State] did a very good job against Oregon, which is a loaded and giant front. I don’t see any issues about it. They’re well-schooled and they know what they’re doing.
“Their football is at the highest level, as far as offense, defense and scheme-wise.”
Now if the opposing coach can have this much respect for the Bulldogs, why can’t Fresno State fans?
Head coach Pat Hill is always praising the efforts of the student section and how important it is to have a big crowd. He said when he looks up into the stands and sees students on their feet throughout the entire game, he’s proud. He doesn’t deny the fact that student support helps his players get pumped up and fuels their emotions during the game.
Fans have their own opinions and being so passionate about those opinions is what makes the game exciting. But be informed about what you are talking about before making such a bold statement.
Fresno State may not be No. 1, but they’re in the BCS poll at No. 16 for a reason.
There are enough doubters from media and around the country, we don’t need them at Fresno State, too.
Students should enjoy this time right now. It’s probably the most exciting time in our school’s football history.
There’s more to cheer about here at Fresno State than any other school in the WAC.
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