(Photo by Otto Kitsinger III/Getty Images)
The Western Athletic Conference has its own share of rivalries, its share of "must watch" games, but none are bigger than the rivalry between the Fresno State Bulldogs and the Boise State Broncos.
In past years, these two teams have looked at their schedules prior to their season starting and both pointed out this one game.
When the game takes place in November, it's a game that fans of both teams look forward to and a game that could decide the WAC Champion.
But for whatever reason, this year's edition of the rivalry between Fresno State and Boise State takes place on the third week of the season for both teams—earlier than it's ever been.
That doesn't mean that the rivalry won't be as strong or the game doesn't mean as much as it usually would. Make no mistake about it—both teams are going to be revved up and ready to go on Friday night.
Bulldog Stadium in Fresno, CA is already sold out, the Bulldog Shop across the street from the stadium has been selling Fresno State White Out T-shirts, and the airwaves around town have been going crazy about this game.
Boise State (2-0) comes into this game ranked 10th in the country, opening the season with an impressive 19-8 win over the Oregon Ducks and a blowout 48-0 win over Miami (OH).
For Fresno State (1-1), the Bulldogs returned home after a disappointing loss to Wisconsin this past weekend—a game that was easily winnable. Late turnovers and a missed field goal, though, allowed Wisconsin to sneak away with a 34-31 double overtime victory.
This is a game that means just as much to both teams. Both have something to prove; both have something on the line. This is a game that Boise State has dominated in recent years, but Fresno State could surprise if it makes the right plays at the right time.
Fresno State will win if...
...the defense can keep pressure on QB Kellen Moore
Fresno State's defense needs to be a force in this game. They need to put and keep pressure on Boise State sophomore quarterback Kellen Moore. They can't allow him to sit in the pocket and pick the defense apart.
Moore had 198 yards passing against Oregon and 307 last weekend against Miami (OH). Keep pressure on him and force him to make throws, and it could get him off his game.
...the Bulldogs pound Boise State's defense on the ground
Fresno State is well known for its running game. Ryan Mathews has rushed for over 100 yards in each of his first two games, but the Bulldogs have another threat that is making his name known.
Freshman running back Robbie Rouse has made his presence felt with his speed out of the backfield. He ran for 75 yards in their opening game against UC Davis and added 46 against Wisconsin. Get him involved with Mathews, along with Lonyae Miller and Anthony Harding, and wear the Boise State defense down.
...the Bulldogs capitalize on opportunities
Fresno State shot itself in the foot against Wisconsin and missed on opportunities that could have put the game away early. A missed field goal in the first half from kicker Kevin Goessling and three interceptions by quarterback Ryan Colburn, two of which turned into game-changers, kept Wisconsin in the game.
The Bulldogs need to limit their mistakes and capitalize on their opportunities. Colburn needs to stay patient in the pocket and deliver the kind of impressive throws we saw against Wisconsin.
When they have makable field goals, Goessling needs to make sure that he puts them through the uprights because every point is going to be huge for the Bulldogs.
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