Fresno State 5-4 (2-3) vs. New Mexico State 3-6 (1-4)
Time/TV: 2 p.m. PT/Fox Sports Arizona & Altitude
Fresno State
The Bulldogs are struggling on both sides of the ball with injuries. However, for the first time since the first half against Toledo, it looks like starting defensive tackle Jon Monga is 100%. His presence is needed against an NMSU offense that will rely on the pass heavily. The FS secondary is very banged up, as only three safeties are healthy for this game. Starting free safety Marvin Haynes will likely miss another game and Lorne Bell will play at about 70%. Added to the list is backup Frank Manquero, who has missed practice this week wearing a protective boot.
Offensively, FS will be without two of its top playmakers for another week. Receiver Marlon Moore still has not practiced since re-injuring his ankle at Utah State three weeks ago. Standout running back Ryan Mathews is still not 100% since suffering nerve damage to his knee/foot in late September against UCLA. On the bright side, Lonyae Miller is back to full form after being hobbled last week versus Nevada. Richard Pacheco will get the start at left guard in place of the injured Devan Cunningham.
New Mexico State
In a season that started with a lot of promise and a 3-2 record, the Aggies have dropped the last four games -- three at home -- and enter the Fresno State game with a 3-6 record. One of the most explosive teams in the nation, the Aggie "Air Raid" passing attack has been impressive. Quarterback Chase Holbrook leads the WAC in passing yards (2,520) and touchdowns (20). The Aggies have the nation's ninth-best passing attack. Receiver Chris Williams is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He has 1,009 yards this season and leads the WAC with seven touchdown receptions. He had 221 yards last weekend against Hawaii.
The Series
Fresno State has never lost to the Aggies, winning all 14 games in the series that began in 1972. The Dogs are 6-0 at home against New Mexico State. The last two games have been close, with Fresno State winning by a combined total of 12 points. Fresno State edged New Mexico State 23-18 in the last meeting in Bulldog Stadium.
GAMEDAY LINKS
Walk-On Desia Dunn Keeps Working
Pacheco Back in the Starting Lineup
Brandstater’s Last Walk Down the Ramp
Lepori Talks Senior Tackle