By Richy Zajic — Executive Editor
Cowboys may throw their lassos in the air, but Spartans apparently prefer to do their work on the ground.
238 is a new season-high in rushing yards for SJSU (5-4, 3-2 MW), and the ground attack was certainly a catalyst in the 27-21 victory over Wyoming (4-4, 0-4 MW) on Saturday.
Junior quarterback Nick Nash was one of the key contributors in this department, as he finished the game with 110 yards and a touchdown. Nash now has the most rushing yards by a quarterback in SJSU history.
“It is what it is,” said Nash. “It’s cool but we still got a lot of ways to go.”
Junior running back Kairee Robinson was another effective rusher for the Spartans, as he finished with 52 yards and a touchdown.
The Spartans’ performance on the other side of the ball was just as important, as the SJSU defense forced two interceptions and multiple turnovers on downs, including one in the red zone. The Spartans had only one interception this season entering this game.
Not to mention three sacks, including two back-to-back in the final two minutes of the contest. SJSU head coach Brent Brennan believes this team will need the same defensive intensity in the next matchup with Nevada.
“There’s a real physical edge to Nevada … ” said Brennan. “The physical part, you have to answer that to play them.”
As for the aerial attack for the Spartans, Nash also had a solid outing in this department. The junior finished with 150 yards and a touchdown.
The main receiving target on the afternoon was no surprise, senior tight end Derrick Deese Jr.. Deese Jr. finished with five catches for 81 yards.
However, the most explosive passing play for SJSU was a 57-yard dime from Nash to freshman receiver Charles Ross for a touchdown in the third quarter.
As for Wyoming, it was a relatively balanced offensive attack with two touchdowns coming in the air and one on the ground.
SJSU’s next game will be on Saturday, Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. at Mackay Stadium in Reno, Nev. versus the Nevada Wolf Pack.
Follow Rich on Twitter @RichyZajic