by Daniel Olsen | It’s important to focus on what makes the Utah State Aggies do well according to Coach Bronco Mendenhall, and that’s exactly what the Utah State defense did by haunting the Colorado State Rams scoreless for the majority of the game en route to a 31-14 victory at Maverik Stadium.

In the redemption game, McCae Hillstead found his footing over the worst ranked defense in the country. Not only did he complete over 70% of his passes, but he also had over 100 rushing yards and even one reception on a trick play pass from Anthony Garcia.

The Aggies figured out how to be a two headed monster with 217 passing yards and 247 yards on the ground. They wasted no time by scoring a touchdown on the opening drive and then leading 17-0 at the end of the first half. They had previously scored less than or equal to that amount on five occasions this season. The two first half touchdowns came on the ground with Nehemiah Washington and McCae Hillstead scoring their first rushing touchdowns of the season.

The Aggies added a 12-yard rushing touchdown from Javen Jacobs and finally a passing touchdown to Kaina Watson. Kian Afrookhteh also chipped in 3 points for his only made field goal of the day of 25 yards. He converted all of his extra points and missed just one 41-yard attempt.

Utah State will now look to build momentum off their 3-5 record as they host 5-3 Fresno State in another PAC-12 After Dark matchup. The game will be broadcast at 7:30 PM on the USA Network.

“November is an exciting time of year,” Coach Mendenhall said. “It usually leads to conference races and tight matchups that are even more meaningful. Fresno is tough and physical, but I like our team”.

Fresno State is coming off an impressive 38-22 win over an Oregon State team that until now was undefeated in conference play. Heisman dark horse and Beavers receiver Jesse Legree was kept out of the end zone and held to 70 receiving yards. The Fresno defense forced two fumbles and won the turnover margin 2-1 with just one interception thrown on their own end.

“I see beyond the context. I thought the loss to Texas State was our best game. It was a loss, but I saw more than that.”

Anthony Garcia said that he thinks the Aggies will win out and be unstoppable. His trick play throw to McCae Hillstead was unstoppable, and the Aggies will look to get more of those when they face Fresno State on Saturday.

“The focus of the week was we had to run it more effectively and differently. I liked what I saw. Javen was consistent as always. McCae runs it differently than Grady.”

Utah State will look to gain bowl eligibility as they will have to win three of their final four games to do so. Aggie fans can catch the basketball game at 2 pm before dinner and the game. The theme of this game will be a salute to all military veterans ahead of the Veteran’s Day holiday next week.

Images courtesy Joe Oliver.