Texas State enters a critical matchup this Saturday against Fresno State, with both programs vying for a coveted Pac-12 Championship berth.
The Bobcats are coming off a dominant 42-21 victory over Oregon State, a performance “the team considered its best of the season.”
Quarterback Brad Jackson led a potent rushing attack against the Beavers, while the defense successfully neutralized one of the country’s top passing offenses, per the “Austin American-Statesman.”
Fresno State arrives in San Marcos following a 17-10 loss to Utah State last week.
Despite that setback, the Bulldogs maintain the top-ranked scoring defense in the conference, limiting opponents to an average of 20.6 points per game, according to “local reporting.”
The game is scheduled for a 3:00 p.m. kickoff at UFCU Stadium and will be broadcast on The CW.
Betting markets show Texas State as a 9.5-point favorite, with the over-under set at 59.5 points, as noted by “BetMGM data.”
Texas State must remain wary of a Fresno State defense that features veteran cornerbacks Simeon Harris and Ethan Tierney, who have combined for five interceptions this season.
Additionally, edge rusher Dylan Hampsten enters the contest ranked second in the conference with 5.5 sacks.
Weather conditions in San Marcos are expected to be cloudy, with temperatures near 67 degrees at kickoff, dropping to 62 degrees by 6 p.m., according to “forecast reports.”
Both teams are currently tied for second place in the Pac-12 standings.
Following this week’s action, Texas State is scheduled to host Washington State on Nov. 21 before concluding its regular season against Colorado State.
The Bobcats look to leverage their momentum from the Oregon State win to secure a vital conference victory at home.