By Richy Zajic — Managing Editor
Despite the countless challenges brought forth by the Coronavirus pandemic, San Jose State football has strung together a 3-0 record for the first time in almost four decades.
From practicing up in Humboldt to not knowing if the season would start in spring or fall, the Spartans have faced their fair share of roadblocks.
The 2020 season has been anything but smooth sailing for every collegiate team, the trials and tribulations faced this year are unparalleled throughout history.
Whether the season should or should not have been played altogether during the age of COVID-19 is certainly a valid discussion.
The NCAA did bite the bullet and players now have pads on, however. It’s fair game for every team and there are no excuses for anyone.
While some teams like Air Force and Boise State unfortunately have had more players test positive for COVID-19 than others, that is the nature of this season. Programs performing well, like SJSU should receive the credit they deserve.
The Spartans have stepped up their play immensely, each week seeming to improve from the last.
Stopping a dominant Air Force run attack, lighting up a New Mexico secondary and showcasing a defensive juggernaut versus a respected San Diego State squad has led the Spartans to a 3-0 record in the early going.
SJSU has shown dominant spurts on both sides of the ball throughout their three contests. A high-powered aerial offense and a stifling, hard-hitting defense have been the recipe for success.
Head coach Brent Brennan has the team motivated and locked in, and the results are there to show for it.
On the offensive side, graduate transfer Nick Starkel has been dealing to the star-studded receiving duo of seniors Tre Walker and Bailey Gaither. These two have combined for 553 yards and 4 TDs thus far.
Not to mention senior tight end Derrick Deese Jr. who seems to catch everything within a 10-mile radius of his hands, who has 114 yards and 3 TDs this season.
On the defensive side, sophomore cornerback Tre Jenkins has been essential to the Spartans’ success. With 21 tackles through three games and an interception in each of the last two, he has been vital. You may have seen his most recent pick in a highlight reel.
Junior linebacker Kyle Harmon has also been one of the catalysts for the SJSU defense. He has a whopping 42 tackles through the three contests, averaging 14 per game.
The Spartans are firing on all cylinders and are looking like a real threat in the conference thus far, and deserve the credit they have earned.
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