Photo By : Sebastian Hansen
Down to the Wire: San Diego State Stuns Fresno State in Last-Minute Thriller.
On October 17th , The rivalry between the San Diego State Aztecs and Fresno State Bulldogs delivered a thrilling showdown, at Snapdragon Stadium. In a game that came down to the final seconds, the Aztecs found a way to overcome adversity and secure a dramatic 26-23 victory over the Bulldogs.
San Diego State came out firing, establishing early momentum and building a 13-0 lead behind strong offensive execution. Quarterback Jayden Denegal connected with Jaylon Hawkins for a spectacular 52-yard touchdown pass, giving the Aztecs an early advantage. Cooper DiLeva added field goals to help SDSU maintain control.
Photo By : Sebastian Hansen
However, Fresno State refused to back down. The Bulldogs responded with a strong second-quarter push, cutting into the deficit and eventually taking control in the third quarter. Running back Julius Gillick helped lead the comeback with two rushing touchdowns, giving Fresno State a 17-16 lead.
The Aztecs faced another challenge when starting quarterback Jayden Denegal left the game with an injury. Freshman quarterback Stone Saunders stepped in, while the returning Lucky Sutton provided a major spark on the ground.
Photo By : Sebastian Hansen
SDSU regained the lead in the fourth quarter when backup quarterback Bert Emanuel Jr. connected with Jordan Napier for a seven-yard touchdown, putting the Aztecs ahead 23-17.
Fresno State answered once again, marching down the field and finding the end zone with another Gillick rushing touchdown. The Bulldogs tied the game at 23, setting up a dramatic finish.
Photo By : Sebastian Hansen
With less than a minute remaining, San Diego State put together a crucial drive. Cooper DiLeva stepped onto the field and delivered the biggest kick of the night, drilling a career-long 53-yard field goal with just 57 seconds left on the clock.
The kick gave SDSU a 26-23 lead, and the Aztec defense held strong on Fresno State's final possession to seal the rivalry victory.
Photo By : Sebastian Hansen
Cooper DiLeva (SDSU): Four successful field goals, including the game-winning 53-yarder.
Lucky Sutton (SDSU): 110 rushing yards on 18 carries.
Jayden Denegal (SDSU): 112 passing yards and a 52-yard touchdown pass.
Jaylon Hawkins (SDSU): 52-yard receiving touchdown.
Julius Gillick (Fresno State): Two rushing touchdowns.
Bryson Donelson (Fresno State): 62 rushing yards and a touchdown.
