Fresno State vs SJSU clash tonight in MWC regular season finale, Valley Trophy on line between historic rivals

Fresno State and San Jose State face off tonight in their final Mountain West regular season game. The Bulldogs travel to face the Spartans with the coveted Valley Trophy at stake. This matchup concludes a historic rivalry that has spanned over a century.

The game marks a significant moment for both California programs. It is their last scheduled conference meeting before realignment changes the landscape.

A Rivalry Steeped in Central Valley History

The Battle for the Valley is one of college football’s oldest rivalries. It began in 1921. The teams have met 87 times since that first game.

Geographic proximity fuels the intense competition. The schools are located just 150 miles apart. This creates a natural rivalry for regional bragging rights.

The Valley Trophy symbolizes dominance in the Central Valley. According to Associated Press coverage of the rivalry, the trophy has become a focal point for both teams and their fan bases. Fresno State currently holds the trophy after last season’s decisive victory.

Season Trajectories Set the Stage for Finale

Fresno State enters the game with a 7-4 overall record. The Bulldogs sit sixth in the Mountain West standings. Their performance this season has positioned them for potential bowl game consideration.

First-year Head Coach Matt Entz has maintained the program’s competitive standard. The team ranks 42nd nationally among FBS programs. Their offense has shown consistent production throughout conference play.

San Jose State has struggled this season. The Spartans hold a 3-8 record and are last in the conference. Second-year coach Ken Niumatalolo has faced challenges rebuilding the program.

Statistical Breakdown Favors Visiting Bulldogs

Fresno State’s statistical profile demonstrates their advantages. The Bulldogs average nearly 10 more points per game than the Spartans. Their defense has also been more effective at limiting opponents.

San Jose State’s offense ranks 110th nationally in scoring. They average just 22.1 points per game. Recent performances, including a 25-3 loss to San Diego State, highlight these struggles.

Las Vegas oddsmakers have installed Fresno State as a 3.5-point favorite. The total over-under is set at 46.5 points. This suggests expectations for a defensive contest.

The Battle for the Valley trophy represents more than just a seasonal win. This historic finale closes a chapter in California football history that future matchups will struggle to replicate.

Info at your fingertips

What time does the Fresno State vs San Jose State game start?

The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Pacific Time. It will be broadcast nationally on FS1. Viewers can also stream the matchup through the Fox Sports app.

Who currently holds the Valley Trophy?

Fresno State possesses the Valley Trophy. They won it in last season’s matchup with a 33-10 victory. The Bulldogs will defend the trophy in tonight’s game.

What are the team records entering this game?

Fresno State holds a 7-4 overall record. San Jose State stands at 3-8 for the season. The Bulldogs have a 4-3 conference record compared to the Spartans’ 2-5.

Is this the final game between these rivals?

This is the final scheduled meeting as Mountain West conference opponents. Future matchups may occur but will not be part of the regular conference schedule. The rivalry’s long-term future remains uncertain.

What is at stake for Fresno State in this game?

The Bulldogs are playing for bowl game positioning. A victory would improve their final regular season record to 8-4. It would also secure the Valley Trophy for another year.