Last season, the Bulldogs had its worst team in over two decades but still blanked the Vandals 34-0. FS dominated last season’s matchup defensively not allowing Idaho past the FS 36.

FRESNO STATE

What to look for on offense: Strong running game…Bulldogs want to control the ball and keep its defense off the field after running only 51 offensive plays against Nevada. FS was able to score quickly on big runs by Ryan Mathews and Lonyae Miller against the Wolf Pack. The Vandal rushing defense allows 154 yards per game.
Who to look for on offense: Ryan Mathews…Mathews saw significant time against Nevada. It was the first time this season Mathews saw action in a variety of formations. After another week of practice, Mathews will likely run the ball more than 14 carries for the first time this season. He is averaging 6.5 yards per carry; another 100-yard game should be expected.
What to look for on defense: Interceptions…The defense cannot go another season without getting an interception until game eight. Idaho will be starting a new quarterback and will likely use a true freshman quarterback in certain formations. The Vandals like to use balance in their offense and are averaging close to 200 yards passing per game.
Who to look for on defense: Marcus Riley…Riley is the Bulldogs top defender and will be counted on to contain the WAC’s leading rusher Idaho RB Deonte’ Jackson. Riley is averaging over 10 tackles per game. With Idaho expected to lean on Jackson early in the contest, Riley could top 10 tackles in the first half. Moreover, since the secondary has not done well picking off passes, look for Riley to garner the first interception of 2007.

IDAHO

What to look for on offense: Balance…In spite of losing starting quarterback Nathan Enderle to an injury, Idaho wants balance on offense. Jackson will see plenty of carries early on, but if they want to keep the Bulldog defense honest, Brian Nooy will have to air it out.
Who to look for offense: Deonte’ Jackson…This is a no-brainer. Jackson leads the conference in rushing averaging 113 per game. He looks to be the first back to rush for over 100 yards against the Bulldogs in WAC play.
What to look for on defense: Turnovers…Idaho leads the WAC in turnovers caused. FS has coughed up the ball 11 times this year (8 fumbles, 3 ints). The Bulldogs protected the football well last week, but cannot afford to turn it over against the Vandals.
Who to look for on defense: Chris Smith…The Vandal free safety is the last line of defense between Miller & Mathews and the end zone. Nevada gave up three long runs, with Miller & Mathews stiff-arming, running over, or out-running the safety. Smith is tied for fourth on team with 38 tackles.

PREDICTION

Fresno State is a young team that has no business over-looking any opponent. This is a big difference in comparison to Coach Hill’s teams of the past eight years. The Bulldogs understand the task, and they will play hard. After letting the Wolf Pack score three late touchdowns last week, the defense will play four-quarter football.

Fresno State is the more talented team and the running game is starting to take off. Tom Brandstater has done a great job managing the game and has only thrown three interceptions all season, and none has come in crucial situations.

Idaho is improving but without Enderle, the Vandals will have trouble throwing the ball effectively. Fresno State’s defense will be on a mission and Idaho could be limited to one score unless the ‘Dogs consistently turnover the ball. Expect Fresno State to control the clock and get out of Moscow with a hard-earned win, nothing pretty.
EA Sports NCAA 2008 says: Fresno State 38, Idaho 20
BarkBoard.com says: Fresno State 27, Idaho 10