Key Highlights
- Aztecs and Broncos are tied for first place in the Mountain West conference.
- San Diego State running back Lucky Sutton needs 102 rushing yards to reach 1,000 for the season.
- The game is set for Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at Snapdragon Stadium on CBS Sports Network.
- Boise State quarterback Maddux Men is out with a foot injury; backup Max Cutforth will start.
San Diego State’s Defensive Challenge
The Aztecs have shown inconsistent defense this season, which could be pivotal against Boise State. They recorded an FBS-best three shutouts but also faced lopsided losses to Washington State and Hawaii. Edge player Trey White believes the team needs to step up: “We weren’t playing to our standard; we had a couple self-inflicted wounds that ended up costing us.” The defense is without key linebacker Tano Letuli, who suffered a season-ending knee injury two weeks ago.
Boise State’s Offensive Adjustments
In place of injured quarterback Maddux Men, backup Max Cutforth will make his first start. Cutforth faced challenges in the previous game, completing 14 of 27 passes for 106 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. Coach Rob Aurich noted that the staff will build a plan around Cutforth’s strengths. Boise State has three key pass catchers: Latrell Caples, Matt Lauter, and Ben Ford, while the running attack is led by Dylan Riley, Sire Gaines, and Malik Sherrod.
Weather Impact on Game Dynamics
The forecast calls for rain starting at 9 p.m. Friday night and throughout Saturday, affecting both teams. San Diego State has had only three rain games in the past 100 home games since 2008, while Boise State has mostly played in dry conditions. The Aztecs are prepared with revised umbrella policies allowing small, collapsible umbrellas.
Turnovers and Drive Sustaining
The teams have been prone to turnovers; San Diego State had eight since the first six games of the season. Boise State has 14 giveaways, ranking them at 100th in interceptions. Both defenses are opportunistic, with 11 interceptions each tied for 14th nationally.
The Aztecs need to maintain their ball protection and complete drives; they were just 2-for-14 on third-down conversions against Hawaii.
The game between San Diego State and Boise State is crucial for both teams’ seasons. With the stakes high, both defenses will be key in determining the winner, especially with the forecasted wet weather.
