By Kellen Concentine — Staff Writer
San Jose State (3-4, 1-3 MW) fell short on homecoming night against San Diego State (6-1, 3-1 MW) Saturday at CEFCU Stadium, 27-17.
The Aztecs ran the ball a total of 55 times for 260 yards and two touchdowns. Chase Jasmin was able to bust one for 50 yards in the third quarter.
On the other side of the ball, the Spartans might have found their new starting running back. Freshmen Kairee Robinson got his first touchdown of his career and 64 yards on the ground.
“Being able to make a play for my team, that’s exciting,” Robinson said.
SDSU’s defense couldn’t stop Robinson, but it neutralized the passing game. Senior quarterback Josh Love was held to 218 yards passing because the multiple coverages the Aztecs threw at SJSU’s offense.
Defensively, the Spartans were without their senior captain in the middle, Ethan Aguayo. Without the linebacker, three Aztec players ran for over 50 yards.
Head coach Brent Brennan mentioned how important Aguayo is during the post-game press conference.
“We miss Ethan everyday,” Brennan said.
SDSU had a 20-play drive, the longest drive by any FBS team this season.
During the first half, the Spartans defensive line got two sacks and five tackles for loss. However, in the second half they got one tackle for loss.
Defensive lineman Cade Hall said the team was focused on getting to the quarterback, and that caused them to give up rushing lanes.
With all the offense the Aztecs had, special teams made the biggest impact on the game.
To start the contest, sophomore running back Kaegun Williams returned the kick for a 95-yard touchdown.
Senior punter Brandon Heicklen pinned the Spartans inside the 20-yard line four times, and twice inside the five-yard line. SJSU had multiple drives start from the one-yard line.
“What you gonna do?” said Love. “You gotta respond.”
And the Spartans responded with a 99-yard drive, ending with a Bailey Gaither touchdown.
San Jose State will travel to Michie Stadium to take Army on Saturday for a 9 a.m. kickoff.
Follow Kellen on Twitter @KC_Journalism