Grading the 'Dogs (6-4, 5-2) at Nevada (7-3, 6-0)

Nevada 52, Fresno State 14

Short version:

Long version:
Quarterbacks: D+
Who cares if Ryan Colburn throws for a career-high 362 yards if he turns the ball over three times in critical game situations? Colburn again threw a pick at a crucial moment, trying to throw out of bounds near Darren Newborn but failing. The result was a 10-point halftime deficit, when the Bulldogs could have had a field goal and made it a one-score game at the half. Then Colburn fumbled near the 5-yard line on a keeper, and later again fumbled in the red zone under pressure. His turnovers made for as much as a 17-point swing in the outcome.

Running Backs: C
With national star Ryan Mathews leaving the game on a cart after a concussion in the second quarter, the running game was just average. Lonyae Miller had 5.5 yards per carry and 79 all-purpose yards, but Mathews finished with 8 carries for 32 yards, Robbie Rouse 5 for 19 yards and Anthony Harding 2 for 3 yards.

Receivers: B-
The Bulldogs' biggest advantage on the field was the wideouts vs. Nevada's secondary. But even with a prolific day on the stat line, Seyi Ajirotutu fumbled in the open field on a crucial possession -- a dagger in the team's collective heart. Jamel Hamler had the early 57-yard TD, Marlon Moore had a 61-yard grab and 103 yards on the day and Chastin West had 7 catches for 77 yards.

Offensive Line: F
What in the world? Who knew the 'Dogs o-line, which has been flatout dominant all year, was even capable of playing this poorly? Colburn was sacked 6 times and the running backs averaged a season-low 3.2 yards per carry. Losing star Andrew Jackson was obviously going to make an impact, but shouldn't be the difference in the unit falling from dominant to dominated. Might make sense to start Joey Bernardi at center and Matt Hunt at right guard this week.

Defensive Line: F
Another day at the park for Nevada rushing the ball down Fresno State's collective throat. 461 yards. Most of it up the middle. The d-line sure wasn't overpursuing, as the 'Dogs were more concerned with containing Colin Kaepernick than applying pass rush. So what gives? Why weren't more tackles made around the line of scrimmage? It's either a scheme problem or a personnel problem. Besides Chris Carter, no one seems to play with the all-out motor and tenacity needed at this position.

Linebackers: F
LBs racked up many more tackles than the front four, but were still caught not stuffing gaps throughout the day, and not making tackles on initial contact. Ben Jacobs led the team with 11 tackles, and Shawn Plummer had the team's only tackle for loss. Losing Kyle Knox to injury hurt bad, and this team needs Travis Brown and/or Daniel Salinas to step up and rip away a starting job quickly.

Defensive Backs: D
It's not that this unit played poorly in pass coverage. The Wolf Pack was held to 45 yards through the air. But despite Moses Harris and Lorne Bell getting 7 tackles apiece, even this unit wasn't there enough to support the tackling and assignment woes of the front seven. Credit Bell for bringing the physicality, but Harris had a subpar performance.

Special Teams: D
Not wanting to be left out, special teams also had to contribute to the woes. First, a block in the back negated a good A.J. Jefferson kick return and led to the Bulldogs' first punt, a wobbler by Robert Malone. Malone's only two bad punts of the year came in this game, as he averaged just 31 yards. Then, Jefferson fumbled away a later punt return.

Coaching: F
The coaching staff has done some great things this year with new wrinkles on offense and a more open, less predictable style of playcalling. Unfortunately, the defense is same ol', same ol' with a 4-3 scheme that is eaten up by Nevada and Boise State annually. Would it hurt to try something else? At least try it! Boise State was successful playing six guys near scrimmage against Nevada last year. Pat Hill said after last season's beatdown by the Wolf Pack, the 'Dogs needed to find a way to stop the pistol read-option. Umm...? And, then, to top it all off, the 'Dogs are being blown out in the third quarter and the starting quarterback turns the ball over three times and freshman phenom Derek Carr still doesn't come in to get some experience in a perfect passing situation? My head hurts from being scratched so much.

Game Preview: Fresno State (1-0) at Wisconsin (1-0)

Quarterbacks
Edge: Even
It was a little strange that junior Ryan Colburn (6-3, 220) played less than two full quarters in his first-ever start, but he looked adequate while he was in there, connecting on 5 of 9 passes for 161 yards, including a 92-yard touchdown pass. Colburn’s only previous career action was at Oregon in 2007 though, so he does have some exposure to hostile road environments. Make no mistake redshirt freshman Ebahn Feathers (6-0, 210) will be used as a change of pace. In his first-ever series, toward the end of the second quarter, Feathers led the Bulldogs downfield, finishing the drive with a 30-yard option keeper of his own for a touchdown. True freshman Derek Carr (6-3, 190), younger brother of David Carr, was 2 of 2 for 37 yards, but it’s unclear whether he’ll play this Saturday.


Wisconsin will show the ‘Dogs a completely different look this season with junior Scott Tolzien (6-3, 205), who’s 257 passing yards in last week’s win over Northern Illinois were the most ever for a Badgers quarterback making his debut. Tolzien was an efficient 15 of 20, but tossed two interceptions compared to one touchdown. Like Fresno State, the Badgers have a change-of-pace signal caller in redshirt freshman Curt Phillips (6-3, 228), who led two series last week while completing 3 of 5 passes for 24 yards and running four times for 34 yards. In last year’s 13-10 win in Fresno, now-departed Allan Evridge took all but one snap for Wisconsin, with senior Dustin Sherer (6-3, 220) taking the other. Sherer took over the starting job midway through last season, but lost it to Tolzien this year.



Running Backs
Edge: Bulldogs
Before the season started, this looked like the one game on Fresno State’s schedules where the opponent’s running backs might match up. But that was before we saw what an impact true freshman Robbie Rouse (5-7, 185) could make. He rushed 10 times for 75 yards and a score in his first collegiate game – as the fourth-stringer. Junior Ryan Mathews (5-11, 220) is the most talented back on either team, and ran for 106 yards on 11 carries in the opener, including a 60-yard touchdown. Sprinkle in seniors Lonyae Miller (5-11, 220) and Anthony Harding (6-0, 220) and the Bulldogs’ backs are twice as deep as Wisconsin’s. Miller added 50 yards in the opener, and Harding didn’t get a carry, but led the team with 822 yards rushing last season.


As is usually the case with Wisconsin, its running game presents the biggest challenge for opponents. Much ballyhooed P.J. Hill, who battled his way to 112 yards against the ‘Dogs last year, is gone, but the guys stepping into featured roles might be even better. That’s definitely the case with sophomore John Clay (6-1, 248), a big, powerful runner who runs straight into contact and keeps churning. Clay tallied just 14 of his 884 yards last season against Fresno State, but it was just his second collegiate game. Now he brings the experience of a 5.7 yards per carry average and nine touchdowns. And junior Zach Brown (5-10, 210) presents another hefty challenge. Brown had 305 yards and three touchdowns in 2008 on 5.5 yards per carry. The two combined for just 94 yards on 29 carries last week, but don’t let take away from the fact they are flat-out talented.



Receivers
Edge: Bulldogs
The Bulldogs have more weapons and more experience, and got off to an even better start than Wisconsin with senior Marlon Moore’s (6-1, 190) 92-yard touchdown reception. Senior Seyi Ajirotutu (6-4, 210) presents matchup problems for Wisconsin, as does junior Devon Wylie (5-9, 170). Ajirotutu had three catches for 57 yards in the opener. Wylie burned the Badgers on a 47-yard catch and run up the gut last season. A weapon the Badgers didn’t have to deal with last year was redshirt sophomore Jamel Hamler (6-2, 205), who had the Bulldogs’ first catch of the young season for 20 yards.


With the passing game somewhat of a weak spot for the Badgers last season, the tight ends were the keys. Travis Beckum is gone, but senior Garrett Graham (6-3, 250) returns after leading the team with 40 catches, 540 yards and five touchdowns last season. Heading into the season he was thought to be the X-factor of the unit, but that may have changed with last week’s emergence of junior Isaac Anderson (5-10, 177) as a deep threat. He had three catches for 100 yards in the opener, including an 80-yard touchdown and also rushed for a 23-yard score. Anderson and sophomore Nick Toon (6-3, 212), who had five catches for 72 yards last week, could both be poised for breakout years. Junior David Gilreath (5-11, 170) is one of the team’s fastest players, but didn’t get a reception in the opener. Last year, Gilreath led Wisconsin wideouts with 31 catches for 520 yards and three scores.


Offensive Line
Edge: Even
Fresno State averaged 7.9 yards per play last week – and you don’t do that without good play from the line. Again though, it’s hard to tell how good the unit is against lesser competition. Wisconsin will definitely give a better idea. The Bulldogs didn’t allow any sacks, as the pass blocking held up even better than expected. Sophomore right tackle Kenny Wiggins (6-7, 310) looks to have replaced Bobby Lepori as the team’s enforcer. Junior right guard Andrew Jackson (6-5, 295) will likely be the best lineman on the field.


Wisconsin announced some bad news Thursday, releasing that junior center John Moffitt (6-5, 320), on the preseason watch list for the Lombardi and Riminigton trophies, will likely miss Saturday’s game with lingering effects of a pectoral injury. Moffitt also missed the opener, allowing Travis Frederick (6-4, 336) to become the first true freshman offensive lineman to start a season opener in Badgers history. Junior right guard Bill Nagy also missed the opener with injury, and was replaced by sophomore Kevin Zeitler (6-4, 317) – the smallest Badgers starter. Junior left tackle Gabe Carimi (6-7, 325) is an All-Big 10 candidate, and sophomore tackle Josh Oglesby (6-7, 330) adds similar size on the other side. Junior left guard Jake Bscherer (6-7, 310) fills out a unit that could cause trouble for the Bulldogs in the middle, but might have trouble keeping up with Fresno State’s speedy edge rush from the ends.



Defensive Line
Edge: Even
It’s difficult to get a good gauge on this group against UC Davis, but the pressure on the quarterback was nonstop – pretty much the polar opposite of 2008. Junior end Chris Carter (6-2, 230) and redshirt sophomore end Kenny Borg (6-3, 245) will be tough for Wisconsin to block if the big nasties can’t catch up to their edge speed. The bigger question for the ‘Dogs is how will the interior hold up against the north-south running game? Junior Chris Lewis (6-3, 260) will be greatly undersized, but his strength should level the playing field somewhat. Junior Cornell Banks (6-3, 300) might be a better option in this one.


While most of the Badgers’ defensive front it unproven, the one guy who stole Pat Hill’s attention on film this week is senior end O’Brien Schofield (6-3, 248), who tied for the team lead with five sacks in his first season as a starter in 2008. Though Schofield had just one tackle against the ‘Dogs last year, it was for a 9-yard loss. Sophomore end J.J. Watt (6-6, 287) played his first career game last week and recorded six tackles. The two tackles have one combined career start in sophomore Patrick Butrym (6-4, 291) and senior Dan Moore (6-2, 283).



Linebackers
Edge: Bulldogs
Junior Nico Herron (6-3, 240) is coming off WAC player of the week honors for his 94-yard interception return for a touchdown and five tackles. Herron looked like one of the most improved players all camp and if it carries over into the big games on the Bulldogs’ schedule it’ll translate into this unit being a huge team strength. Junior Ben Jacobs (6-3, 225) is coming off a monster season of 113 tackles and All-WAC honors and the Bulldogs finally have some talented depth in true freshmen Travis Brown (6-2, 235) and Daniel Salinas (5-11, 205). Brown needs to clean up the sloppy tackling he displayed last week, but it’s not fair to be too harsh on a guy just out of high school.


Senior Jaevery McFadden (6-2, 230) is a tackling machine who led the Badgers with 84 last season, but he doesn’t get into the backfield much – just 2.5 tackles for losses last year and no sacks. He leads a unit featuring two newcomers at the other spots in junior Culmer St. Jean (6-0, 233) and freshman Mike Taylor (6-2, 221), who made quite the debut with seven tackles and a fumble recovery in his first career game.



Defensive Backs
Edge: Even
Despite pitching a shutout in the opener last week, skeptics are pointing to the Bulldogs’ secondary as a concern. While there is a lack of proven depth, senior corner A.J. Jefferson (6-0, 190) has the talent to catapult himself into being one of the best in school history. He made a couple of impressive pass breakups against UC Davis that make it seem like he’s on the right track. Jefferson had a game-high 11 tackles against the Badgers last season. Junior free safety Lorne Bell (5-10, 200) played like a maniac, running around ready to light someone up. Bell led the team with seven tackles, and might help bring back the “Bulldog Football” attitude that’s been missing the past three seasons. Sophomore corner Isaiah Green (5-10, 180) made a couple coverage mistakes last week that could have been devastating against a better team – but look for him to clean those up with experience.



An unheralded Wisconsin secondary is led by senior Chris Maragos (6-0, 198), a former walk-on who led the team with a career-high nine tackles in the opener. Sophomore corner Devin Smith (5-11, 188) is thought to have breakout potential in his first season as starter. Smith added a career-high six tackles against Northern Illinois. Junior strong safety Jay Valai (5-9, 201) loves to hunt for the big hit, but Bret Bielema wants to see him reel in the risk of missing tackles to go for the impact play.



Special Teams
Edge: Bulldogs
Fresno State owns a frightening reputation for blocking kicks, with a nation-best 45 blocks since 2002 – four more than Texas. The Bulldogs didn’t disappoint last year, blocking a kick and a punt against Wisconsin. Fresno State’s Devon Wylie blocked a punt last week against UC Davis to get the 2009 stats rolling. The most memorable play for Fresno State’s 2001 win at Camp Randall was Bernard Berrian’s kickoff return to open the second half, but the Bulldogs’ best kick returner of all-time is senior A.J. Jefferson, who is the NCAA’s active leader. Sophomore kicker Kevin Goessling (6-0, 190) is on the Lou Groza Award watch list after showing great improvement a season ago – he missed three field goals in the three-point loss to Wisconsin last year.


Sophomore kicker Philip Welch (6-3, 200) was a Groza Award semifinalist last season after nailing 20 of 24 field goals – two of those were missed from beyond 40 yards. With these teams’ history, it could very well come down to a single kick. Sophomore Brad Nortman (6-3, 209) averaged 41.8 yards, fifth best in the country last year among freshmen. While return man David Gilreath has all kinds of speed and quickness, he averaged just 19.6 yards per kick return, and had no touchdowns.



Coaching
Edge: Even
This type of football game is what Fresno State’s Pat Hill lives for – anyone, anytime, anywhere. Hill and the Bulldogs are 1-2 all-time against Wisconsin, losing twice by a combined five points. Hill never has a problem getting the Bulldogs amped up for these games against BCS-conference opponents, but Wisconsin’s players should be jacked up just the same remembering last year’s hard-hitting gem.


Wisconsin’s Bret Bielema had the most victories of any Badgers head coach in his first three seasons with 29 – winning 17 of his first 18 games at the school. But the Badgers had a disappointing 2008 and are unranked again this year.



Intangibles
Edge: Badgers
It’s tough to win at Camp Randall, the Badgers’ 80,000-plus seat stadium where they’re 30-3 since 2004. But the Bulldogs have won there before, 32-20 in their dream 2001 season where they screamed to a No. 8 national ranking. Fresno State, though, is coming off an emotional 51-0 drubbing of UC Davis and feels it needs a win to keep momentum going for next week’s WAC opener with Boise State. The Bulldogs’ 14 wins against BCS-conference schools since 2000 is second most of any non-BCS-conference school. Fresno State has won four of its past five against BCS teams – but the one loss was to Wisconsin last season. The biggest question mark is how will the reported flu outbreak impact Wisconsin’s players, and will any key guys miss the game?


***Photos courtesy of Juan Villa

Grading the 'Dogs (1-0) vs. UC Davis (0-1)

Quarterbacks: B
Didn't get to see much of the aerial attack, but Colburn's 92-yard TD to Moore provided some fun. How fitting to see Feathers jet for a 20-yard TD his first carry. Carr only got to throw twice with Hill not wanting to run up the score.

Running Backs: A
What's to fault? Six backs got into the action (even with Harding sidelined), including a freshman and two redshirt freshmen, and the 'Dogs racked up 310 yards and 5 TDs on 6 yards per carry. Mathews' 60-yard outburst was the highlight, but Rouse's 75 yards were eye-opening for many in Bulldog Stadium.

Receivers: A
Sure looked like new assistant Keith Williams has these guys prepared. Moore's 92-yard catch and run down the sideline was picture perfect, and the screen pass should be back in action.

Offensive Line: A
Better than expected. Protected the QBs all night and plowed ahead for the running game. At least 10 linemen saw playing time.

Defensive Line: B+
No sacks, but allowed just 45 yards rushing and harrassed the opposing QB throughout, leading to bad decisions and inaccurate passes. Brought the attitude back and led the charge.

Linebackers: A-
Herron's 94-yard TD was a highlight that will be long remembered. Freshmen Brown and Salinas got some valuable experience, though Brown made a couple rookie mistakes.

Defensive Backs: B+
No picks from this unit, but boosted aggressiveness from Dunn and Jefferson was the thing to look for. Green missed a tackle and gave up a huge play, but Bell's crushing hit makes up for it.

Special Teams: B-
Blocked punt by Wylie, punt returns by Wylie and kickoff for a touchback by Shapiro were beauties, but West running up to field a punt and botching it for a turnover was not a smooth move.

Coaching: A-
Gotta love Hill coaching with killer instinct and wanting to put up as many points as possible in the first half. Would have liked to seee Colburn stay in longer and get more than one half of seasoning to prep for Wisconsin road trip.

RECEIVERS

Returning lettermen: 12

Incoming: 3

Lost: 4 (Bear Pascoe, Jason Crawley, Drew Lubinsky, Adam McDowell)

So who’s going to lead Fresno State in receiving this season?Take your chances guessing and spin the wheel. In the past three seasons, three different active wideouts have led the team Seyi Ajirotutu (6-3, 210), Marlon Moore (6-0, 190) and Chastin West (6-1, 215). Last season, Ajirotutu had a team-high 714 yards and five touchdowns, and has 1,206 career yards receiving. In 2007, Moore led with 694 yards and five touchdowns, and has 1,032 for his career. West was the 2006 leader with 365 yards and three scores, and has 579 in his career in two

years (he lost all of 2007 to injury).

Ajirotutu is the biggest deep threat, and showed it last season averaging 16.9 yards per catch. Only

problem is, he still has to prove he can overcome the dropsies that plague him every now and a

gain. One simple thing he can work on is the timing of his jumps when the ball is up for grabs. Moore is the fastest of the three, and can emerge as a deep threat again. Part of his disappointing line of 258 yards and one touchdown last season is due to the five games he missed with injury. Still, more was expected of Moore after the way he finished 2007. Moore might be the most talented of the three, but needs to push himself to keep improving and learning all the little things about the position. West is unlikely to take back a leading role, as he’s evolved into more of a blocking and possession receiver since returning from the injury that cost him all of 2007. He’s a big, physical receiver who needs to concentrate on getting separation, as do Moore and Ajirotutu. The good news is new receivers coach Keith Williams looks to be a phenomenal hands-on instructor who grabs the kids’ attention and focuses on detail (plus he’s hilarious).

But don’t be so sure one of those three will repeat as team leader in 2009 – there are two more candidates. Junior Devon Wylie (5-9, 170) proved to be the fastest player on the team when he was clocked at 4.25 seconds in the 40-yard dash in the offseason. Wylie was third on the team with 269 yards and two scores last season in just nine games (four missed with injury). And Pat Hill expects him to really break out this year. Wylie is in superb shape and has added an impressive amount of muscle since his freshman year. Another underclassman, redshirt sophomore Jamel Hamler (6-2, 205) also has the ability to put up the biggest numbers. Hamler has just five catches for 80 yards overall, but missed all of last season due to academics. Now that he’s back on track, the big, built receiver is showing off a pair of the receiving corps’ best hands and demonstrating a winning attitude. He quickly became one of Derek Carr’s favorite targets, as the two worked out together over the summer.

That brings us to the next tier, which presents more danger for opponents. Sophomore Rashad Evans (5-9, 180) broke onto the scene as a true freshman in 2008 with 21 catches for 232 yards, including a clutch first down on the Bulldogs’ game-winning drive at UCLA. Evans sat out all of fall camp’s contact drills with injury though, so his status is up in the air for the season. With the depth at receiver, and four seniors departing after this season, it might not be a bad idea for Evans to redshirt. One of those seniors is former walk-on Darren Newborn (5-11, 185), who recorded his first reception last year en route to finishing with seven catches for 77 yards. Newborn won’t assume a featured role, but is a guy who can get open and make a play when he gets the chance. The other returning letterman at wideout is sophomore J.J. Stallworth (5-11, 185), who looked to be one of the team’s most improved players during camp. His speed and playmaking ability (making the tough catches) had to be pleasing to coaches, but the younger brother of NFL receiver Donte Stallworth has yet to make a catch in a game.

With those eight wideouts setting the tone, there won’t be many more snaps to go around, but watch out for the up-and-comer in redshirt freshman A.J. Johnson (6-0, 180). Hill went so far as to say he’s got breakout player potential. On the practice field, it’s obvious he’s got speed and above-average route-running ability for a young player. At this rate, he’ll be an impact player next season. Last year, it looked like redshirt freshman Matt Lindsey (6-0, 200) was on a similar route. But the great hands and aggressive, go-up-and-get-it mentality he showed in camp last year and in high school seemed less apparent in camp this year. Hands were definitely an issue, but he has bulked up substantially.

Three walk-ons round out the crew in Matthew De Los Santos (5-11, 180), Dondre McDonald (5-8, 160) and Taylor Stewart (6-0, 185), the son of defensive coordinator Randy Stewart. All three took plenty of reps with the newcomers in fall camp and did as well as could be expected.

The next question is who replaces the mighty Bear Pascoe (draftee of the San Francisco 49ers) at tight end? The short answer – a bunch of guys will get a shot. The Bulldogs will use more H-back-type tight ends this season. But the one built for catching passes is sophomore Ryan Skidmore (6-5, 240), who’s almost like a big receiver running downfield. He’s put on weight and gotten himself in good shape, and seems to have the trust of all the quarterbacks. Skidmore had three catches for 17 yards and a score last year.

Two experienced H-backs return in Isaac Kinter (6-1, 240) and junior Vince “Cub” Pascoe (6-1, 250), Bear Pascoe’s cousin. Kinter caught 13 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown last year, as Vince Pascoe finished with four catches for 33 yards and a score. Kinter is deceptively fast for his size, and Pascoe normally has reliable hands (though they were suspect at times during camp). Both are strong blockers in the running game. Expect to see lots more of redshirt freshman Tapa Taumoepeau (6-3, 220) as well. Taumoepeau saw special teams action as a true, before hanging it up and redshirting. He looks to have improved speed, and made a heck of a catch-and-run in stride in the fall scrimmage before lowering the boom on a defender. Redshirt freshman David Gory (6-4, 235) would also have seen an increased role, but is out of the season recovering from injury.

Redshirt freshman Michael Butler (6-3, 240) is a project at tight end. The blocking aspect will come before the pass-catching, but Butler has bulked up plenty for the role. Also getting work is sophomore Austin Raphael (6-2, 225), who was converted from linebacker in the summer. Raphael has a long way to go at the new position.

Rating: 8 of 10

NOTE: Chastin West photo courtesy of Juan Villa/The Collegian

SPECIAL TEAMS

Returning kickers: 3
Incoming: 1
Lost: 1 (Stephen Ferdinandi)

It’s hard to fault a special teams coach who has been so revered for so long at Fresno State, but John Baxter let his stubbornness get in the way of Fresno State’s success last season. It will be crucial for the Bulldogs to clean up their uncharacteristic kick and punt coverage woes from a year ago, when they allowed three touchdown returns and two near-misses at UCLA. Still, Baxter continued to challenge the opposing team’s best return men, even when it was hurting Fresno State’s chances.

The good news is Fresno State’s own return men are better than anything they’ll face, and it starts with All-America candidate A.J. Jefferson (6-0, 190), who was recently highlighted in ESPN the Magazine. Jefferson led the nation with a whopping 35.8 yards per kick return as a sophomore, before averaging 29.3 yards last year, including a 92-yard touchdown against Nevada. Jefferson’s three career touchdown returns are the most of any active NCAA player.

He’ll likely be joined deep by either junior Devon Wylie (5-9, 170), Chastin West (6-1, 215) or sophomore Rashad Evans (5-9, 180). Wylie had just two returns last year, but has improved his speed to a personal best 4.25-second 40-yard dash in the offseason. Evans averaged 21.6 yards and West averaged 19.2 last season.

Evans, who’s nursed a hamstring injury throughout fall camp, took over punt return duties last season, averaging 13.2 yards. West and Marlon Moore (6-0, 190) each averaged a few yards more on about half the attempts. All three returned a punt for a touchdown last season. The X-factor could be true freshman Robbie Rouse (5-7, 185), who’s wowed pretty much everyone in fall camp with a body type similar to former ‘Dog and current Tampa Bay Buccaneer Pro Bowler Clifton Smith. If Rouse doesn’t redshirt, which is a strong possibility, he’ll compete for this job right away.

Like the return game, the kicking game returns fully intact. Punter Robert Malone (6-2, 215) showed just how strong his leg is when he boomed a 74-yarder at San Jose State last season. Malone had a breakout power year, averaging 42.8 yards and placing 20 of 54 punts inside the 20-yard line. Expect him to have fewer punts behind a higher-scoring offense this season. Freshman walk-on Matt Williams (6-1, 190) will get a shot in practice to prove whether he’s worthy of inheriting the job next year. Long snapper Bobby Shepard (6-1, 235) returns for his sophomore campaign after a solid 2008 season. Malone and Shepard seem to have great chemistry, though their signature games of playing catch (with a baseball and mitts) during summer voluntary workouts was a bit odd.

Sophomore kicker Kevin Goessling (6-0, 195) rebounded from early-season adversity last year – missing potential game-clinching kicks against Wisconsin and Hawaii in consecutive weeks – to bury a school-record 58-yarder to beat Utah State. The turnaround was likely due to maturity and experience, and landed Goessling on the Lou Groza Award watch list. He finished 15 of 22 last season, with two misses coming from beyond 50 yards. The biggest concern with Goessling is kickoff power – he had just two touchbacks in 73 attempts. Backup duties go to redshirt freshman walk-on Andrew Shapiro (6-1, 185), the chatterbox of the group, who’s looked solid in practice and scrimmage situations kicking and punting.

Fresno State’s 44 blocked kicks since 2002 rank tops in the country, three ahead of Texas. Since Pat Hill took over as coach in 1997, the Bulldogs have 79 blocks.

Rating: 8 of 10

Random musings from Day 1 of fall camp

Welcome to Fresno true freshmen! Just don't expect 82 degree highs in the forecast, well, ever again. It was a rarity for August in The No (which I prefer to call The Yes) and Pat Hill let the newcomers know it.

Though there's no official word on it, this blogger suspects we also won't see Ebahn Feathers leaving the practice field with the scout team many more days. Sure, practicing with the reserves gives Feathers a chance to get the lion's share of reps, but he's going to need work with the guys who will be on the field when he enters the game for special packages.

Let's hope we don't see too many more dropped passes, especially by Marlon Moore, who got off to a rocky start on Thursday. Devon Wylie (who new receivers coach Keith Williams calls "Tim Dwight" all too often) looked polished and pristine.

Speaking of Williams, mark my words now the 'Dogs found themselves a special young coach. He's boisterous and energetic, but most importantly pays attention to the tiny details that were lacking last year under John Baxter's direction.

WAY too early to decide the Ryan Colburn-Derek Carr battle, but after Day 1, Carr gets a point for the speed with which he drops back to pass. Colburn gets a point for handling Joey Bernardi's snaps more cleanly.

Though we hear Devan Cunningham dropped 30 pounds every offseason...this time, I believe it. Other guys who look slimmer, trimmer and more defined: Ben Jacobs, Kenny Borg, Damion Owens, Nico Herron, Richard Pacheco.

So far, the battle for the sweatiest shirt is neck and neck between Bernardi and new defensive coordinator Randy Stewart. Bernardi is the first person to give Stewart a run...ever!

Pat Hill, Red Wave, get your THUMBS UP!

In honor of the United States and our great performance in the 2008 Summer Olympics, we’ve decided to have a little fun — albeit with real opinions — with the Fresno State football team. Anybody can write a preview about keys to the game, position match-ups and game previews (including us, so check back again today to read that too), but not many football gurus have the kind of outside the box (hardly), attention demanding (read if you feel like it) material that goes for the Gold, a la Michael Phelps. So without further ado, here are our medal winners (Gold, Silver and Bronze) for random but intriguing and unheralded attributes regarding Fresno State football’s best.

Oh, and for your listening and viewing pleasure as you read, here is the Fresno State fight song. Click play and then read; that’s our recommendation.

Hardest hitter
Gold: Moses Harris
Has shown growth each year, improved his speed and learned how to use his body for big impact hits.
Silver: Nico Herron
6-3, 240-pound animal likely deserving of the gold, but we’ll keep him here until he proves it on game day.
Bronze: Lorne Bell
Head down, heat-seeking missile; when he’s locked in you’re done.

Surest tackler
Gold: Jon Monga
Take a second to think about all the tackles Monga’s missed; you can stop thinking, it hasn’t happened.
Silver: Ben Jacobs
He’ll take a shot at you if he has a chance to, but he knows not to gamble if a guy could get by him.
Bronze: Eric Brown
A Kyle Goodman-like presence on special teams, he thrives at being the first guy downfield on kickoffs.

Fastest WRs
Gold: Marlon Moore
No explanation needed.
Silver: Devon Wylie
Devon Wylie doesn’t run like the wind, the wind runs like Devon Wylie.
Bronze: Chastin West
Others in the mix, but haven’t necessarily had the chance to prove it yet like West has.

Fastest RBs
Gold: Lonyae Miller
Similar 40 time to Mathews, but with longer strides and still hasn’t been caught from behind.
Silver: Ryan Mathews
Gone before you know it, but still has something left to prove with breakaway speed.
Bronze: Anthony Harding
Harris and Ellis haven’t proved it yet, and Harding ran so fast he knocked a Georgia Tech guy out.

Fastest LBs
Gold: Mario Moore
175-pound walk-on is just flat out faster than the rest.
Silver: Quaadir Brown
Especially now that he dropped all that weight.
Bronze: Chris Carter
Somebody has to win bronze; Carter gets the nod for experience.

Fastest DBs
Gold: A.J. Jefferson
Just ask those who have chased him what his dust tastes like.
Silver: Isaiah Green
It’s not easy be(at)ing Green.
Bronze: Sharrod Davis
I’m going to make fun Oregon ‘cause they don’t have him anymore. Edges out Phillip Thomas.

Fastest Overall
Gold: A.J. Jefferson
If he and Moore ran side by side they’d tie, but somebody had to get first.
Silver: Marlon Moore
If he and Jefferson ran side by side they’d tie, but somebody had to get second.
Bronze: Devon Wylie
Caught from behind at Texas A&M, but more stamina, speed and strength this year.

Stickiest hands
Gold: Bear Pascoe
Winnie the Pooh was recently overheard saying, “This honey’s as sticky as Bear Pascoe’s hands.”
Silver: Vince “Cub” Pascoe
If Cub played baseball, he’d be catcher.
Bronze: Chastin West
He made the tough, acrobatic catches all camp long.

Best cover guy
Gold: Damion Owens
A true coverage corner who doesn’t allow WRs much space.
Silver: A.J. Jefferson
Jefferson is faster than Owens and can cover best deep.
Bronze: Sharrod Davis
If you catch a ball in front of Davis, you’re getting’ hit.

Special teams guy
Gold: A.J. Jefferson
No. 1 in the country in kick returns and a preseason All-American.
Silver: Bear Pascoe
He’s the reason for the push in the middle that leads to so many blocked kicks.
Bronze: Bobby Shepard
Redshirt freshman is in there every play and expected to be a four-year mainstay.

Most Outgoing on-field personality
Gold: Joe Bernardi
“Joey, Joey, Joey.” If he’s within a mile, you’ll know it.
Silver: Bobby Lepori
A chatterbox on and off the field who is everyone’s friend.
Bronze: Jason Crawley
He’s been seen at practice with a feather in his helmet and a Fresh Prince headband.

Coolest facemask
Gold: Ryan Mathews
The DNA helmet was a fresh look.
Silver: Richard Pacheco
A true old-school O-line mask.
Bronze: Tapa Taumoepeau
We mostly just wanted you to try and say his name.

Prediction for most bones
Gold: Tom Brandstater
His growth coupled with the most opportunity gives him the gold.
Silver: Bear Pascoe
Bones for blocking, catching and blocking kicks.
Bronze: Ryan Mathews
If he goes for 1,000 yards and similar TD numbers he’s in the mix.

Most intense coach
Gold: Pat Hill
Every time I see/hear him I want to run through a brick wall.
Silver: Dan Brown
When he’s fired up, the D better be ready for a lecture.
Bronze: Derek Frazier
Brings the hands-on intensity when he doesn’t like what he sees.

Best tactical coach
Gold: Randy Stewart
He teaches and teaches and teaches, ‘til his shirt is soaked with sweat.
Silver: John Baxter
Special teams results speak for themselves.
Bronze: Derek Frazier
Do it right or he’ll show you how to do it right.

Route runner
Gold: Devon Wylie
No one can keep up with his quick cuts and change of direction.
Silver: Jason Crawley
His most refined trait; a true possession receiver who gets the tough first downs.
Bronze: Darren Newborne
Hard-working former walk-on has mastered the little things.

Jump ball catch
Gold: Chastin West
He’s proven his acrobatic ability in games.
Silver: Bear Pascoe
Hands, size and toughness to pull it down in traffic; he’d get Texas A&M’s vote.
Bronze: Seyi Ajirotutu
Height, hands and jumping ability.

Best at changing direction
Gold: Ryan Mathews
He can stay at full speed while contorting his body to either side.
Silver: Devon Wylie
Low to the ground and accelerates fast; uncoverable in the first 10 yards.
Bronze: A.J. Jefferson
Makes his cuts while still moving up the field.

Best practice player
Gold: Ryan Colburn
He’s gone from looking like a mess as a freshman to looking like a big-time QB because of the time he put in.
Silver: Kenny Wiggins
Just waiting for an opening to become the next O-line star.
Bronze: Richard Pacheco
It’s no coincidence why he earned the starting nod at center.

Best NFL prospect
Gold: Bear Pascoe
His skills are most likely to guarantee him a roster spot on an NFL team.
Silver: Tom Brandstater
Might have the highest ceiling, especially as a late bloomer.
Bronze: A.J. Jefferson
As long as he proves last year wasn’t a fluke, he can make it on return abilities alone.

Best motor
Gold: Jon Monga
He’ll grunt, growl, hit and run until the whistle blows.
Silver: Ikenna Ike
Former walk-on had to put out non-stop effort to get to where he is.
Bronze: Offensive Line
They’re a bunch of Energizer bunnies.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Returning kickers: 2
Incoming: 1
Lost: 2 (Clint Stitser, Kyle Zimmerman)

As has become the norm with Fresno State under special teams coach John Baxter, who’s been with Pat Hill since he took over for the Bulldogs in 1997, the special teams are special. Baxter has made the Bulldogs one of the most feared special teams units year in and year out as one of the nation’s top blocking threats. And adding to that is the return of junior cornerback A.J. Jefferson (6-0, 190), who wowed the nation last season with the top-ranking average of 35.8 yards per kick return and 2 touchdowns with a long of 98 yards. He also returned a blocked field goal more than 60 yards for a touchdown at Nevada. Jefferson has been named first-team on several publications’ preseason All-America teams.

It’s still somewhat unclear whether he’ll handle punt return duties too – that assignment was the departed Clifton Smith’s (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) last season. Now, it’ll likely be either Jefferson, sophomore wide receiver Devon Wylie (5-9, 170) or junior wide receiver Marlon Moore (6-0, 190). Wylie looks matured with speed and endurance from his true freshman campaign last season, when he was second in kick returns with 22.2 yards per attempt and a long of 47. Moore returned 4 kicks for a 28.2-yard average with a long of 34, and 2 punts for 16 yards. One of them will likely also be the other kick returner, unless junior wide receiver Chastin West (6-1, 215) reclaims the role he held in 2006 before missing last season with injury. West averaged 22 yards per kick return as a redshirt freshman, including a 93-yard touchdown at Boise State. No matter who gets the nod, it’s safe to assume the Bulldogs are in good hands in the return game.

The kicking game is much less proven, but looking strong. Redshirt freshman Kevin Goessling (5-10, 165) has a booming left leg comparable in power to Clint Stitser’s. The hope, though, is that Goessling will prove more accurate. After a so-so Spring Game, Goessling nailed 5 of 5 attempts in the first fall scrimmage, including a 53-yarder, but still has yet to face a real-life game situation. The Bulldogs also have some surprising depth with the emergence of walk-on Andrew Shapiro (6-1, 170). The right-footed Shapiro showed tremendous leg strength, and a quirky sense of humor, of his own in fall camp, and will be able to fill in at kicker or punter if needed. He’s also competing with Goessling for kickoff duties. Another walk-on will back those two up in redshirt freshman Stephen Ferdinandi (5-7, 165). Ferdinandi leg just isn't comparable to the other two kickers, so he'll have to work on his accuracy from mid-range to ever see playing time.

Atop the depth chart at punter is sophomore Robert Malone (6-2, 215), who does have some game experience. He started 2 games as a true freshman before going down with a season-ending injury, and then started last season before Kyle Zimmerman won the job. Malone had a career-long of 53 yards as a true freshman, but has struggled with consistency. If he can solve that part of the equation, watch out, because he showed as powerful a leg as any punter in school history during camp. Malone also returns as the holder on field goal attempts, but will have to adjust to working with a lefty this season.

The unit should also benefit a great deal from redshirt freshman holder Bobby Shepard (6-1, 235). He’s the first holder ever redshirted by Hill, a sign that Hill feels he can be a fixture on special teams for four years. He’s drawn comparisons to former Bulldog Kevin Murphy, who in four years as the starter never botched a snap. Senior tight end Bear Pascoe (6-5, 265) is the backup.

Rating: 9 of 10

WIDE RECEIVER

Players returning: 8
Incoming: 3
Lost: 1 (Tim Lang)

It seems to be a common theme on the Fresno State offense, but, again, depth is the name of the game. Fresno State has had the “Wide Receiver U” reputation for a long time, but rarely if ever before this many guys who are considered on the verge of breaking out. The discussion begins with junior Marlon Moore (6-0, 190), who overcame a big mental mistake last season in fumbling away a victory at the goal line at Texas A&M, to close out the season with an average of 107 receiving yards in the final three games. Moore made a name for himself with 9 catches for 134 yards and 2 touchdowns in the win over Kansas State. While arguably the Bulldogs’ fastest player, Moore is also a standout in the weight room, and its well known among his teammates. The highest praise, though, for Moore is the comparison he often draws from coaches to former Fresno State great Bernard Berrian, now of the Minnesota Vikings. The two have very similar bodies and running styles, and Moore is also expected to see action in the return game. The Bulldogs had 16 players record a reception in 2007, and Moore led the way with 48 catches for 694 yards and 5 scores. He also rushed 5 times for 37 yards and a touchdown.

Moore was undoubtedly the No. 1 receiving target last year, but will have competition for that title this season from junior Chastin West (6-1, 215), who missed all of 2007 after an injury in a preseason scrimmage. West is back to his old ways of out-muscling and outrunning defensive backs. As a freshman in 2006, West led the Bulldogs with 33 catches for 365 yards and 3 touchdowns in a down passing year. He also showed off his speed that year with a 93-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. West’s presence makes it extremely difficult for opposing defenses to choose who to concentrate on, especially with two other established threats.

The guy with the biggest upside, and biggest frame, is junior Seyi Ajirotutu (6-3, 210). He hasn’t come anywhere near reaching full potential yet, but showed glimpses last season as he finished with a team-high 16.9 yards per catch, and was third on the team with 491 yards on 29 catches. He’s still looking for that first trip into the end zone, however. Ajirotutu’s rare combo of speed and height make him the team’s best deep threat since Paul Williams (Tennessee Titans). He was arguably the MVP of spring camp.

So there’s the speed guy, the strong guy and the tall guy – how ‘bout the possession guy? That title belongs to junior Jason Crawley (6-2, 185). Crawley knows his role and plays it well. He’s dominant blocking downfield and has a knack for coming down with big grabs in tight spaces for first downs. Last season, Crawley had 199 yards and a touchdown on 22 catches. And while this entire unit (especially the four juniors) lead the team in swagger and charisma, Crawley takes it to a new level – he even showed up for spring practice with a feather sticking up from his helmet. Each of the receivers feed off each other’s bravado.

Two candidates are battling it out in fall camp for the fifth spot in former walk-on junior Darren Newborne (5-11, 185) and true sophomore Devon Wylie (5-9, 170). Wylie got off to a shining start in fall camp, and has shown improved speed and strength, as well as endurance (which was considered his biggest weakness last season out of high school). Watch for Wylie to develop into a dangerous weapon for worn out and spread out defenses when he comes across the middle and burns defenders to the outside. While most of his action came as a kick returner in 2007, Wylie’s highlight came in his first collegiate game at Texas A&M, when he recorded his only reception – for 44 yards. Newborne had three catches for 23 yards, but could develop into one of Tom Brandstater’s favorite targets in the corner of the end zone.

Sophomore Jamel Hamler (6-2, 205) is another star on the rise in the receiving corps, but will redshirt this season to preserve his eligibility. Hamler had 5 catches for 80 yards, averaging 16 yards per grab.

The next wave includes even more talent that will be hard to keep off the field in redshirt freshman J.J. Stallworth (5-11, 185) and greyshirt freshman Matt Lindsey (6-0, 185) out of Clovis High. Stallworth, the younger brother of the Cleveland Browns’ Donte’ Stallworth, still must improve his hands and route-running, but has shown great athleticism in camp. Lindsey may be even closer to playing time, with arguably the best hands, route-running and jumping ability of the unit (very rare for a freshman’s routes to be so refined). His biggest challenge will be improving on shedding physical corners who can sometimes disrupt his routes.

With so much depth, it’ll be hard not to redshirt true freshman Rashad Evans (5-9, 180), who was listed by nearly every preseason magazine as the WAC’s top recruit. Evans took some time to adjust to the college game, but by the end of the first week of fall camp had hauled in a 44-yard touchdown reception from fellow true freshman Ebahn Feathers.

Freshman walk-on Isiah Barton (5-10, 180) sustained an early fall camp injury, and doesn’t figure in to this year’s plans. As of the first week of fall camp, it remained unclear whether true freshman Anthony Johnson (6-0, 180) of Highland High (Bakersfield) would qualify. Overall, no one in the WAC has anywhere near the depth in playmakers of Fresno State.

Rating: 8 of 10

Fall Camp Update (Offense)

Quarterback: The long-awaited debut of true freshman Ebahn Feathers arrived with Tuesday's first practice. Feathers has a long way to go. While he displayed his awe-inspiring quickness rolling out, he was terribly inaccurate on short passing routes. Two things to keep in mind -- he threw mostly on the run (which is more difficult than standing in the pocket) and he's working predominantly with other newcomers or guys coming off their redshirt year (meaning they're still growing and learning too). Tom Brandstater was a visible leader from the get-go, hustling through practice and leading the younger guys from drill to drill, exercise to exercise. He's vocal, keeping the guys loose and confident. Oddly enough, he looked off on several throws, and threw a couple interceptions. Nothing to worry about this early though. Ryan Colburn took lots of reps with the veterans and looks much improved from this time a year ago. Matt Faulkner is now wearing jersey No. 10.

Running Back: All the talk has been about Ryan Mathews since last year ended, but Lonyae Miller just might hold onto that title of "starter" for now. Miller came out with his trademark explosive first step and looks faster and more muscular. He broke several long runs in drills (but keep in mind it wasn't live hitting and no pads, just shells). Mathews play of the day Tuesday was a handoff he took, while twisting and side-stepping upfield past the front seven, then the secondary. Amazing how he turns his hips and runs sideways without losing speed. Anthony Harding didn't take many reps at tailback. Isaac Kinter is going to be a huge weapon at H-back -- think Stephen Spach but faster.

Receiver: Chastin West is back ladies and gents -- no knee brace and showing that same ol' speed. All the receivers seem in extremely good shape with Chastin leading the way in upper body strength. He's also back working in the return game. Marlon Moore is taking return game reps as well, and looks darn good doing it. He's so light on his feet he appears to glide downfield at times. True freshman Rashad Evans is now No. 11 (redshirt freshman J.J. Stallworth switched to No. 82). Evans also took reps returning kicks, and appeared to have hands trouble. He let one kick bounce off his chest and dropped a throw from Feathers earlier in the practice. Devon Wylie is holding his own in every aspect -- quickness and speed. If the endurance is there he's going to be a weapon. Seyi Ajirotutu might be the biggest threat of the bunch, and he's poised for a breakout year.

Offensive Line: Bobby Lepori is already giving the younger guys a hard time in a good-natured way. One of the freshmen blew a blocking assignment while in with the starters and Lepori shouted out, "geez coach, where'd you find these guys!?" Lepori and Cole Popovich seem to have even more added size and will be forces. Joe Bernardi and Adam McDowell took turns repping at center, with true freshman Douglas Spacht (No. 57) taking reps with the newcomers. Andrew Jackson is a monster -- think giant rectangular body i.e. Frankenstein. He may be the biggest NFL prospect on the team. Kenny Wiggins looks in better shape and is just waiting his turn. He's a future standout at tackle. Devan Cunningham on the other hand is still somewhat of a mystery. He doesn't seem to have lost any weight from last season and is still the slowest lineman.

Grading the 'Dogs - Fresno State 40 - Georgia Tech 28

Quarterbacks: A+
Brandstater wins the Humanitarian Bowl MVP Award, passing for 285 yards, 23/30 on pass attempts, 1 touchdown, 40 rushing yards, and 1 rushing touchdown. Tommy B never look intimidated by the Yellow Jackets defense and was confident the entire game. Brandstater roasts another BCS team.

Running Backs: A+
Clifton Smith ends his college football career with a "Batman" BANG!-POW!-ZIP!-ZAMM!- EEE!-YOW!-KAPOW! type of game rushing for 2 touchdowns on 18 carries, for 152 yards. Smith also grabbed 4 catches for 57 yards. Anthony Harding had 46 yards on 11 carries, and Lonyae Miller added 38 yards on 7 carries. Fullback Nate Adams made key blocks all day long, opening the running lanes. The 'Dogs gashed Georgia Tech for 286 yards rushing, the most the Jackets had given up all year.

Receivers: B+
Marlon Moore led the team with 7 catches for 80 yards, had 11 yards rushing, and a rushing touchdown. However, he fumbled twice in the game, once inside the 2 yard line which Georgia Tech recovered, and once on a rick return that went out of bounds. Bear Pascoe had 6 catches for 72 yards, and Sejy Ajirotutu continued his high yards per catch average with 2 catches for 39 yards. Senior tight end Drew Lubinsky catches the first pass of his career for a 3 yard touchdown, in his final game as a Bulldog.

Offensive Line: A+
Didn't allow a single sack on Brandstater, against a Tech defense who had the most sacks in the country with 47. Brilliant! Out-toughed the Jackets' defensive line, and won the battle in the trenches, paving the way for 286 rushing yards.

Defensive Line: A-
Put pressure on Georgia Tech's quarterbacks for the better part of the game. Tyler Clutts had 7 tackles and 2 sacks, as Jon Monga added 5 tackles and 1 sack. The Jackets averaged a modest 4 yards per rush, but didn't give up too many long runs. The 'Dogs won the battle in the trenches on the defensive side of the ball as well.

Linebackers: B+
Riley and Jacobs each had 9 tackles, with Riley having 2.5 of those tackles for loss. Helped the defense maintain Tech's rushing attack to average 4 yards per carry, and total 161 yards rushing between 3 running backs and a rushing quarterback.

Defensive Backs: B
Marvin Haynes had 8 tackles, and Moses Harris added 5. Jake Jorde made the only interception of the game, and had 4 tackles. Allowed 218 yards passing to a semi-weak passing team. Settled down after the first drive where Georgia Tech's quarterback Taylor Bennett threw a 35 yard touchdown pass. Embarrassing play when a "hail mary" type of throw was caught between 2 Bulldog defenders for a touchdown by Tech, on 3rd and 17. It also brought the Yellow Jackets within 6 points.

Special Teams: B+
Clint Stitser makes both field goal attempts, one from 21 yards and the other from 39. Zimmerman only had to punt twice, but totaled just 24 yards punting. One punt just wasn't very good, and the other was blocked in a crucial point of the game in the 3rd quarter. Marlon Moore had 4 kick returns for 113 yards (28.25 yard average) and one fumble that went out of bounds. Clifton Smith added 12 yards on one return. Not too shabby on kick returns. No punt returns.

Grading the 'Dogs (7-4, 5-2): vs. Kansas State (5-7, 3-5)

Quarterbacks: A+
How 'bout that Brandstater!? A career-high 313 yards. Two TDs. And Kansas State never even came close to picking off a pass.

Running Backs: B-
Gotta love fourth-string tailback Harding's 115 yards and a TD coupled with Miller's 91 yards and a TD against one of the nation's best statistical run defenses. But Miller's two fumbles lost inside the 5-yard line would have been critical mistakes in a close game.

Receivers: A+
Hands down the best collective game this corps has had in the past two years. Moore has scratched his prime as the first receiver to top 100 yards all season (134) to go with two TDs.

Offensive Line: A
Possibly this unit's best game ever. Dominant pass blocking and oft-dominant run blocking equals a blowout.

Defensive Line: A
The pivotal play of the game came just after Fresno State took a 17-14 lead, when Tolbert forced Freeman to fumble and Clutts recovered, leading to another TD.

Linebackers: A-
After giving up 67- and 45-yard TD runs in the first quarter, allowed just 14 yards rushing the rest of the game.

Defensive Backs: B+
Although Nelson gathered 15 catches for 165 yards, Jenkins, Owens and Harris all made clutch stops and deflections. Jorde filled in nicely for the injured Bell.

Special Teams: B-
Special teams didn't play much of a factor as the 'Dogs had their worst return game of the season with Jefferson and Smith injured. Stitser hit a 46-yarder.