Utah State University will face Fresno State University in a college football matchup on Saturday, November 11, at 7:30 p.m. MST, at Maverik Stadium. The game will be broadcast on USA Sports and aired on the Aggie Sports Network (KZNS 1280 The Zone).
The two teams have met 34 times since their first game in 1952, with Fresno State holding a slight edge in the all-time series at 19 wins to Utah State’s 14. Utah State won last year’s game against Fresno State with a score of 28-17, despite losing two of its last three encounters with them.
Utah State (3-5, 2-2) enters this game with renewed confidence following a strong performance against Colorado State last week. The Aggies achieved a season-high score of 31 points in a 31-14 victory. Quarterback McCae Hillstead, who made his first start since the season opener, threw for 173 yards with a completion rate of 77% and ran for 79 yards. He also contributed to a trick play with a 44-yard reception but notably did not commit any turnovers.
However, it should be noted that Colorado State’s defense is ranked among the weakest in the country, which raises questions about whether Utah State’s offensive improvement is sustainable. This week, they face a tougher test against Fresno State, which allows an average of 21 points per game, ranking them 40th nationally. Utah State’s offense has struggled throughout the season, averaging just 17 points per game.
Fresno State (5-3, 3-1) is also coming off a significant victory, defeating Oregon State 38-22 after suffering two setbacks earlier this month against Boise State and San Diego State. The Bulldogs had been in competitive matchups but capitalized on a bye week to regroup and bounce back against the previously undefeated Beavers.
As Utah State prepares for the game, the ability to protect the football remains paramount. The Aggies have gone three consecutive games without an interception since the last one thrown by Hillstead against Boise State. Conversely, Fresno State’s defense has proven adept at forcing turnovers, boasting seven interceptions and seven fumble recoveries this season. The Bulldogs also lead the Pac-12 with 20 sacks, posing a challenge for Utah State’s offensive line, which has allowed 23 sacks so far this year.
Utah State head coach Bronco Mendenhall expressed optimism about his team, noting, “I like our resilience. I can feel momentum. I see improvement.” He anticipates a tough matchup in Fresno State, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming game for assessing the team’s growth.
Fresno State coach Matt Entz acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “Big, big challenge this week… They’ve done a really good job keeping points off the board and being physical.” He praised Utah State’s coaching and adaptability, calling the upcoming game an exciting opportunity.
Looking ahead, Utah State is set to play at San Diego State on Saturday, November 14, while Fresno State will face Texas State on the same day at 2 p.m.
