Fresno State football head coach Tim Skipper praised his team’s performance after their 48-0 victory over New Mexico State on Saturday at Valley Children’s Stadium during a news conference on Monday.

With that game now behind them, the team’s focus shifts to their upcoming Mountain West Conference opener against the University of New Mexico.

Skipper emphasized that the team’s goal is to “play Bulldog football.”

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A Mission for Payback

The Bulldogs made a strong statement with their performance against the Aggies. Their games against Michigan and Sac State highlighted their ability to compete with top teams and overcome adversity. Against New Mexico State, they showcased their full potential. This weekend in Albuquerque, the focus is clear: “payback” against the Lobos of the University of New Mexico.

In their previous encounter on Nov. 18, 2023, Fresno State lost to New Mexico 25-17. The Bulldogs are determined to avenge that defeat and settle the score.

“We got embarrassed at home and I took it personally,” said senior defensive lineman and team captain Devo Bridges. “It motivates me. Having the mindset that we can’t be denied. We got to get them back for last year.”

Advantages and Preparation for the Lobos

Fresno State is poised to secure a victory at University Stadium, holding a 15-6 series lead over New Mexico. In four of their last six matchups, the Bulldogs have limited the Lobos to fewer than 10 points. Despite New Mexico’s new head coach, Bronco Mendenhall, and the addition of 42 transfers — second-most in the nation — the Bulldogs are not underestimating their opponents. Fresno State’s preparation remains focused and thorough, regardless of the Lobos’ revamped roster.

“The transfers have put in their time. Doesn’t make a difference. They’ve been working together and practicing. I can’t knock them just because it’s a team of transfers,” said Bridges.

Junior wide receiver Raylen Sharpe agrees: “They’re transfers, but in the end they’re there to play football. I’m a transfer myself. It’s just football at the end of the day. They’re going to come out and play and so are we.”

Bulldogs’ Momentum on Both Sides of the Ball

The Bulldogs are entering the game with significant momentum on both offense and defense, eliminating the need to identify weaknesses in their opponents.

Fresno State’s offense has exceeded 500 yards in recent games against Sacramento State and New Mexico State. The defense’s shutout of New Mexico State was its first since Sept. 16, 2023, when it defeated Arizona State 29-0. Over the past three weeks, the defense has maintained strong performances.

Offensively, concerns about the unit’s explosiveness have been addressed as the Bulldogs scored 46 points against the Hornets and 48 against the Aggies. Much of this success is attributed to the wide receivers. Mac Dalena has emerged as a deep ball threat, while Jalen Moss has demonstrated exceptional abilities in route running and special teams.

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Running Game Steps Up

The running game made a significant impact against New Mexico State, with senior running back Malik Sherrod finally showcasing his potential. His production has been limited while rehabbing an injury. Sherrod had a standout game, rushing for 113 yards on 15 carries and scoring a touchdown. This marked his first 100-yard game, following a two-touchdown game against Sacramento State the previous week.

Sherrod demonstrated full health and speed, using stiff arms effectively and running with power. Based on that game he may see increased carries and playing time moving forward.

Offensive coordinator Pat McCann is eager to utilize Sherrod now that he is fully healthy. “This is the healthiest he’s been. He’s practicing and playing at a different rate. He played his best game and finished runs better than in the previous two games. He’s producing and showing up.”

Sherrod’s influence extends beyond the field, positively impacting the running back room. His leadership has been particularly inspiring for younger players like freshman Bryson Donelson, a Visalia native and Central Valley Christian graduate.

“Sherrod helps me out every day at practice. He critiques me to help me out. He’s been really great at helping me out while adjusting to the playbook,” said Donelson.

Defensive Dominance and Preparation for New Mexico

The unity and communication within the Bulldogs’ defense have been evident throughout the early part of the season. They have played exceptionally well, allowing just 138 yards of total offense against New Mexico State. The defense effectively contained both the run and passing games, with the Aggies gaining less than 100 yards in each category and the defense nabbing three interceptions.

In their game against Sacramento State, the defense recorded two fumble recoveries and an interception. During the season opener against Michigan, they limited the Wolverines to 269 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing their strong performance across multiple games.

On paper it may seem the Lobos may not present that much of a challenge, but defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle isn’t chalking this up as an easy game. “We have to stop the run game. They’re averaging 173 yards a game on the ground. We have to contain their quarterback. When he gets outside on the perimeter, he’s a real threat. He’s a great athlete and hasn’t been sacked so far this season.”

The Lobos are 0-3 but have faced tough opponents, including Auburn and Arizona. On the Bulldogs’ scouting report, two key figures stand out: sophomore quarterback Devon Dampier and head coach Bronco Mendenhall.

Dampier had a standout performance against Arizona, passing for 260 yards and three touchdowns, while also leading the team in rushing with 130 yards and two touchdowns.

Mendenhall is known for his ability to revitalize programs. He led BYU to Mountain West Conference championships, BCS rankings, and victories over Power 5 teams. At Virginia, he earned respect with a couple of winning seasons. With the right talent and support, Mendenhall has the potential to make a significant impact in Albuquerque.

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Focus on the Present, Not the Future

On Saturday, it was announced that Fresno State, along with other Mountain West schools, will be joining the Pac-12 in 2026. Despite this upcoming change, the Mountain West is currently showcasing its strength, with UNLV and San Jose State both at 3-0.

Head coach Tim Skipper and his team are focused on the present, disregarding future conference shifts and the records of other teams. The Bulldogs are aware of the strong performance from MW programs but are concentrating on their immediate goal: avenging their previous defeat.

Fresno State faces this challenge during New Mexico’s Homecoming, adding extra motivation to the matchup. The prospect of turning the tables on the team that handed them a crushing loss makes this game even sweeter for the Bulldogs.

“When people see us play, they’re going to say, ‘wow, these guys are good.’ We’re going to prove that last week wasn’t a fluke or a one-time thing. We’re going to show up to play,” said Bridges.