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What a game. ESPN primetime and the Wolf Pack and Aztecs did not disappoint. Nevada had to come back from 21 points in fourth quarter to force the overtime, but ended up losing the game 51-44.
Defense was at a premium in a game where there were only five total punts, four by SDSU and one by Nevada. For Nevada it was the second straight week in which they were in a shootout that was decided in the last few minutes.
San Diego State, whose offense has struggled all year, had no issues this game against a woeful Nevada defense. Two Aztec runners went for over 100 yards as Adam Muema totaled 134 and Donnel Pumphrey totaled 112. The Nevada defense allowed Aztec quarterback Quinn Kaehler to look like a Heisman candidate going 23/30 for 286 with 3 touchdowns and no interception. And make no mistake, Kaehler is no Heisman candidate.
For Nevada, quarterback Cody Fajardo had to lead the team from behind in the second straight week even though this week the comeback failed. Fajarado was impressive yet again going 33/52 with 393 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. Down 21 points going into the fourth quarter, Nevada put up a brilliant effort just to force overtime. After a Richy Turner touchdown pass was overturned and ruled incomplete, Fajardo went right back to him on the next play to force overtime.
In overtime the Aztecs had no issues scoring after getting the ball first. Nevada then got the ball and failed to score, ending the game on an overthrown ball. For the second straight year SDSU has recorded an overtime win over Nevada.
Nevada has a week off before travelling to rival Boise State, while SDSU travels to Air Force for a Thursday game.