FRESNO, Calif. – Fresno State secured a decisive victory over Nevada on Saturday, moving to 5-1 on the season and achieving a start matched only once in program history since 1966. The Bulldogs‘ dominant defensive performance, coupled with explosive offensive plays, propelled them to a win in front of a season-high crowd of 40,005.
This victory marks the best start for a Fresno State head coach since 1966, tying him with Darryl Rogers. Only Clark Van Galder in 1952 boasts a better career start for the Bulldogs, with a 6-1 record. the win solidifies Fresno State’s position as a contender in the Mountain West Conference and builds momentum as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
Fresno State’s defense was a key factor in the win,forcing four turnovers – three interceptions and one fumble – for the second consecutive game. The Bulldogs capitalized on these opportunities, scoring 17 points off turnovers. Despite allowing a season-long 45-yard pass play in the fourth quarter, the defense limited Nevada to only two plays exceeding 20 yards. Remarkably, Fresno State remains undefeated (5-0) when losing the coin toss.
Offensively, wide receiver Josiah Freeman had a breakout game, scoring his first two touchdowns of the season, marking his first career multi-touchdown performance.Running back Rayshon Luke delivered a career-long 68-yard run – the longest play from scrimmage this season – finishing the night with a team-high 83 rushing yards. Tight end Richie Anderson III continued his remarkable streak with a reception in his 12th consecutive game, setting career highs with seven receptions for 67 yards, leading the team in receiving yards. Brandon ramirez also achieved a career-high with 38 rushing yards, and Jake Tarwater recorded a season-high two receptions for a career-high 19 yards. toreon Penright made his first start of the season at left tackle, filling in for the injured Brayden Walton.
Defensively, Camryn Bracha, K’vion Thunderbird, and Simeon Harris each recorded their second interceptions of the season. Jahzon Jacks recovered a fumble and achieved a career-high six tackles with 1.0 tackle for loss. Linebacker Jadon Pearson led the team with 11 tackles – his fourth time leading in tackles this season – and added a career-high 2.5 tackles for loss. Michael Jordan Jr. and Tytus Khajavi also posted career-high tackle numbers with three and two stops, respectively.
Dylan Lynch contributed to the scoring with a perfect 2-for-2 performance on field goal attempts.
