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Will the Spartans have a bounce back game at Washington State?
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WEEK 2: San Jose State Spartans (0-1, 0-0 MW) vs. Washington State Cougars (1-0, 0-0 Pac 12)
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8th — 8:00 PM PT
WHERE: Martin Stadium; Pullman, Washington
TV: PAC 12 Network
RADIO: KLIV 1590 AM or TuneIn App
SERIES RECORD: 7-4-1 Washington State
PREVIOUS MEETING: (1996) Washington State 52 San Jose State 16
When a team opens as a 35-point underdog the only thing you can truely hope for is a miracle. After losing to FCS UC Davis last Thursday the Spartans will head to Pullman in search of an upset. After a slow start by the offense in the first half the Cougars were able to beat Wyoming 41-19. Wyoming has probably the best defense in the Mountain West and they surrened 41 points to Washington State, while the Spartan defense gave up 44 points to UC Davis which is the reason for the 35 point line. Next we will get into three keys for a San Jose State win:
Play a completely clean game
Last season the Spartans were one of the worst in the FBS with giveaways and that trend continued last week by throwing two interceptions and giving up a fumble. Not to mention they also had a safety on offense, which in one way or another could be viewed as another turnover. For San Jose State to pull the upset they will have to not only eliminate the giveaways but they will also have to create some turnovers. The Spartans will need the extra possessions on offense if they want to keep up with the points the Cougars are sure to score.
In addition, the Spartans had 12 penalties for 125 yards against UC Davis. They will also need to eliminate those self inflicated mistakes.
Have a field day in the ground game
Unfortuantely Tyler Nevins was carted off in the last game and has not apperead in the depth chart this week. Even without him, Dejon Packer and Malik Roberson will have to have very productive days to secure a win. Both running backs are very capable but, with three new starters on the interior of the Spartans offensive line, it will come down to them. Washington State has a great secondary so attacking through the air may prove to be risky. Also, as such an underdog, being able to shorten the game and winning the time of possesion battle would work to the Spartans advantage.
Get pressure pressure with the D-Line
Coming into the season the three senior defensive line were supposed to lead the charge in turning around this defense. In the game against UC Davis they were unable to get consistent pressure from those three and had to blitz. Against Washington State the Spartans will need to have extra help in coverage which is why it is so vital for them to be able to get pressure with Bryson Bridges, Owen Roberts, and Sailosi Latu.
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