San Diego State vs. San Jose State: Keys For A Spartans Win
Spartans are looking for an upset
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Can SJSU earn a marquee league win?
Following a nail-biter in Reno, San Jose State (3-3, 1-2 MW) celebrates homecoming this week against San Diego State (5-1, 2-1 MW).
The Spartans fell just short to Nevada last week 41-38. A pair of Long Beach Poly Jackrabbits at quarterback, Josh Love and Malik Henry, combined for 757 yards and four touchdowns. The Aztecs, on the other hand, did just enough to get a 26-22 win against Wyoming. The Cowboys’ starting quarterback threw a late game interception to cornerback Luq Barcoo.
This is how San Jose State can get back above .500.
1. Keep Nick Nash Healthy
During last weeks game against Nevada, freshman quarterback Nick Nash suffered a right ankle injury and did not return. According to his father Kenny, a former San Jose State receiver, Nash should be ready to play this Saturday.
Nash is the leading team rusher, with 255 yards on the ground. He makes the Spartans’ offense more versatile, causing mismatches that he and his teammates can capitalize on. Keeping his jersey clean will be a priority for the o-line.
2. Balanced attack on offense
San Jose State averages just under 90 yards rushing a game, but gets 326 yards passing. If they want to keep this defense on its heels they are going to need to be able to run and pass the ball effectively.
The Aztecs are fourth in the nation in rushing yards allowed with 64 a game while the Spartans are the fifth-worst rushing offense. San Jose States’ offensive line is going to have to win the battle upfront to ensure longer runs.
3. Slow the run game down
San Diego State has three players with 200+ rushing yards. Running back Juwan Washington is leading the team with 265 yards. The Aztecs have ran the ball 86 more times than they have passed it.
The Spartans defense excels when they force long third downs. If they can make Ryan Agnew threw the ball, they can force him to throw some interceptions. Getting in the backfield will be the defense’s goal.
Prediction
Expect the Aztecs to run the ball throughout this entire game. This is going to be one of the hardest opponents that San Jose State has seen this season. Even though it is the Spartans’ homecoming, San Diego State will be the team that goes home with a victory.
San Diego State 45, San Jose State 17
