By Jacob Lee — Reporter
Today’s game between SJSU and Nevada will be a precursor to which team will be participating in the Mountain West championship game.
These two teams have more similarities than differences. Here are some key matchups that will contribute to the outcome of this game.
Both teams have elite offences with weapons on both sides, starting with both quarterbacks.
Nevada is being led by Carson Strong who leads the Mountain West in passing yards (2,327) and touchdowns (21).
SJSU has SEC transfer from Arkansas, Nick Starkel, who leads the Mountain West in passer rating (163.6).
Strong may be the favorite in this matchup based on stats, but Spartan fans have seen Starkel grow into a smarter player at SJSU.
The Wolf Pack has the best wide receiver in the conference, Romeo Doubs (44 receptions, 885 yards and 9 touchdowns) and the best tight end in the conference, Cole Turner (40/496/6).
SJSU has weapons at this position too. Bailey Gaither (29/471/4) and Tre Walker (24/329/3) are both big play makers. Derrick Deese (11/158/3), a Mackey Award semifinalist, is also a big part of the SJSU passing game.
When comparing offensive lines, this is where we see an edge for the Spartans. SJSU is ranked in the top six in the nation in fewest sacks. Nevada on the other hand is sitting at last place in the Mountain West for rushing yards per game.
SJSU also seems to have the edge defensively with two exceptional defensive ends, Cade Hall and Junior Fehoko. The SJSU defensive frontline is allowing an average of 3.5 yards per carry ranking them at 15th in the nation.
When analyzing both teams’ linebackers and secondaries, it could go either way. Both are going to have to perform exceptionally well to limit big plays. SJSU’s safety Tre Webb and safety Tre Jenkins have combined 65 tackles this season. Nevada is supposed to get cornerback EJ Muhammad back this week after being out with a concussion.
Last but most importantly is coaching. Brent Brennan has completely turned this SJSU team from the laughing stock of the NCAA to an undefeated force in the Mountain West. An important factor to note is that this is the third consecutive season that SJSU has had the same head coach, offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator since the 1980’s.
With both of these teams so evenly matched in so many aspects it is going to come down to big plays and defense tonight. No doubt that this is a battle of the best in the West.
Follow Jacob on Twitter @JacobWLee3
