There may have been only four conference games this week, but each had its own unique storyline. Boise State took on an old rival for what might be the last time, a huge game took place in California, the Lobos were looking for revenge, and there was the heated battle for the Bronze Boot. Week nine saw plenty of compelling games and unexpected outcomes. With that being said, let’s take a look at the Good, Bad, and Ugly performances from week nine.
The Good
San Diego State
The Aztecs continued their domination
in conference play with a 23-0 victory over rival Fresno State. The Bulldogs’ offense could do absolutely nothing against a stingy Aztec defense that allowed only 227 yards and forced two turnovers, including one that was returned for a touchdown. It wasn’t the sharpest offensive performance for San Diego State, but junior running back Lucky Sutton is starting to become a legitimate threat, running for 131 yards on 21 carries. This performance made it clear that they are back and are real contenders for a Mountain West Championship.
New Mexico
Lobo fans must be ecstatic after getting a taste of revenge against a coach that left their program after just one season. Jason Eck’s New Mexico squad was sharp and prepared for a Utah State offense that has been explosive for much of the season. The Lobos held Aggie quarterback Bryson Barnes to 164 passing yards, many of which came late in a game that was already decided. Their offense also showed improvement after struggling in recent weeks. They used a solid rushing attack to set up their passing game and finished with over 400 yards on the ground. This Lobo squad had the potential to be a real spoiler this season as they inch closer to bowl eligibility. Can they continue this momentum against a UNLV team that is coming off of a bye?
Wyoming
A switch at play caller was exactly what the doctor ordered. The Cowboy offense looked revitalized, and the defense was locked in which allowed the Cowboys to claim the Bronze Boot in their 28-0 shutout victory over Colorado State. The Cowboys had a balanced attack, rushing for 212 yards and averaging over six yards per carry. Quarterback Kaden Anderson was efficient, completing 16 of 24 passes for 154 yards. The Cowboys will now turn their attention to San Diego State where they will look to play the role of spoiler and pull off one of the biggest upsets of the Mountain West season.
The Bad
Boise State
It isn’t often that I place a team that won by 21 points in the “Bad” category. But this is Boise State we are talking about and expectations are higher with this program. The Bronco offense was stagnant for the majority of this contest. Junior quarterback Maddux Madsen struggled to see the field and was missing open wide receivers all over the field. It also didn’t help that the receivers were dropping catches. This team relies on an effective running game and when it slows down, so does Maddux Madsen and the passing attack. Luckily for the Bronco offense, the defense came to play and five Nevada turnovers allowed the Broncos to leave Reno with a comfortable victory.
The Ugly
Fresno State
I was a little surprised to see the Bulldogs switch quarterbacks after starting the season 5-2. The Bulldogs pulled EJ Warner in favor of Sacramento State transfer Carson Conklin. It was a rough showing for Conklin in his first start. He completed only 20 of his 42 passing attempts and threw two interceptions. Poor offensive line play had him under constant duress. It was even worse for Fresno State’s rushing attack that managed only 45 yards on 23 rushing attempts. What once looked like a promising season for Fresno State has taken a turn in the wrong direction. Can they turn this around against Boise State? I’m not very confident in their chances.
Utah State
This was a game that Bronco Mendenhall and his staff really needed to win. Mendenhall left New Mexico for more money and what he perceived to be a better job in Logan, Utah. Mendenhall’s team looked messy and unprepared for a good portion of this contest. It resulted in poor play and an embarrassing final score for the Aggies. Will this game be the beginning of a downward slide for the Aggies? Or will they be able to regain some of the momentum they had earlier this season and reach bowl eligibility?
Nevada
This loss has to make Nevada head coach Jeff Choate feel sick. I’m not saying the Wolf Pack should have won this game, but there is no reason it shouldn’t have come down to the final minutes. True freshman quarterback Carter Jones struggled, throwing three interceptions and missing open receivers, especially in the second half. As bad as Carter was, the special teams play was even worse. A failed fake field goal and a fumbled punt return were costly mistakes. It is unfortunate because the Nevada defense had a masterful performance slowing down one of the best offenses in the Mountain West.
Colorado State
This program is lost. The mess at the quarterback position continued after three Jackson Brosseau interceptions forced the coaching staff to switch to third-string quarterback Darrius Curry. This team looked outmatched in every facet in a huge rivalry game. Whoever takes over this program will have their hands full; a massive roster overhaul is on the horizon.
Are San Diego State and Boise State the favorites to play for the Mountain West Championship? Can Hawaii or UNLV play the role of spoiler? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
