WAC Game of the Week
Nevada (4-4) at Fresno State (5-3), 9 EST ESPN2
Why to watch: Before the season, this appeared to be a possible battle for the WAC title from two strong looking teams, and now it?s about just surviving for each team with Boise State running away with the league and San Jose State already bowl eligible. Fresno State has been a disappointment overall, but its three losses have all come by three points. Even so, this was supposed to be a team that steamrolled through everyone in the WAC. It hasn?t happened as the run defense has been abysmal and the offense inefficient. Meanwhile, Nevada keeps looking like a team ready to make a big push, and then it comes up with a gaffe like the 48-45 home loss to New Mexico State and the 38-31 loss at Hawaii. The loser could have problems getting a bowl bid, and at best, would be the fourth one in the mix.
Why Nevada might win: This is an awful, awful matchup for Fresno State. The Bulldogs aren?t even close to slowing down the run with struggles on the defensive front and too many missed tackles. Helped by running QB Colin Kaepernick, Nevada is second in the nation in rushing offense averaging 306 yards per game. The Wolf Pack should come close to hitting the 300-yard mark while controlling the clock.
Why Fresno State might win: The Nevada secondary has been awful. Everyone who can throw the ball has been able to without much of an issue. The Wolf Pack has the nation?s worst pass defense allowing 328 yards per game. Oddly enough, one of the best performances this year was against Texas Tech, holding Graham Harrell and crew to under 300 yards with just one touchdown, QB Tom Brandstater will be under pressure, but he should still be able to crank out one of his better games.
Who to watch: Sophomore RB Vai Taua has been strong since starting the season with 103 yards and two touchdown on just ten carries against Grambling, and then he became a godsend with Luke Lippencott went down for the year. Taua has found his stride over the last five games with three touchdown runs against Idaho, four total scores against Fresno State, and 470 yards over the last three games.
What will happen: Do you want the Nevada running game or the Fresno State passing attack? The Wolf Pack will run for over 300 yards, but Brandstater will go ballistic. He?ll hook up with Seyi Ajirotutu for a few big plays to get the Bulldogs through a tough battle.
CFN Prediction: Fresno State 34 ? Nevada 30 ... Line: Fresno State -2.5
Must See Rating: (5 The Non-Stop Election Coverage ? 1 The Non-Stop Election Analysis) ? 2.5
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