Sloppy Start Dooms Nevada in 44-10 Loss to San Diego State
RENO, Nev. – Nevada struggled to overcome a tough start, falling to San Diego State 44-10 on Saturday, dropping the Wolf Pack to 1-5 overall and 0-2 in Mountain West Conference play.
The Aztecs‘ offense proved difficult to contain, becoming the first team this season to surpass 200 rushing yards against Nevada, finishing with 204 on the ground. Contributing to the offensive challenge, Nevada managed a season-low 59 rushing yards on 32 carries.
San Diego State also found success through the air, with Jordan Napier recording 110 receiving yards on five catches – the first 100-yard receiving performance against the Wolf Pack this season. Napier also made a meaningful impact on special teams, returning a punt 75 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter. This marked the first punt-return touchdown allowed by Nevada since Rashaad Penny of San Diego State went 70 yards for a score on november 18, 2017.
Despite the challenging game, several Wolf Pack players had notable performances.True freshman quarterback Carter Jones made his first career start,completing 15 of 31 passes for 195 yards,one touchdown,and two interceptions.
On the defensive side, Dylan LaBarbara continued to shine, adding four tackles for loss and two sacks to his team-leading total, bringing his season count to a national-best 14. LaBarbara also led the team in total tackles with nine (seven solo). Nevada recorded a total of 6.0 tackles for loss as a team, marking the fifth time in six games this season they’ve reached that number.
Marshaun Brown recorded his first career touchdown, a 16-yard reception, becoming the latest Reno native to score for the Wolf Pack. The previous Reno player to find the endzone was tight end Cameron Zeidler at Utah State on November 11,2023. Jett Carpenter led Nevada’s receiving corps with 72 yards on three receptions.
punter Bailey Ettridge averaged 46.3 yards on six punts, with a long of 52 yards.
Nevada will look to rebound next week as they continue Mountain West play.
Copyright 2025 KOLO. All rights reserved.
