In their opening games of the season, the San Diego State Aztecs racked up 24 penalties, a problem they are striving to address.
Against Cal, the Aztecs were penalized 13 times in the first half, the second-highest number of penalties committed by an FBS team in a half over the past two decades. These infractions were a significant factor in their 31-10 loss to the Golden Bears, which dropped them to 1-2 under new head coach Sean Lewis.
One pivotal penalty occurred in the second quarter when linebacker Tano Letuli intercepted a batted pass and returned it 65 yards for what would have been a go-ahead touchdown. However, an illegal block in the back nullified the score. Following this, a holding penalty erased a crucial 4th down conversion in Cal territory, forcing a punt and ending a promising drive.
The Aztecs also struggled with offense, missing starting quarterback Danny O'Neil due to injury. Freshman quarterback Javance Tupua'ata-Johnson took over but was unable to revive the faltering offense, which continued to falter due to self-inflicted mistakes.
Despite the offensive woes, the SDSU defense performed admirably, keeping the game close early on, similar to their performance against Oregon State. The game remained tight until the third quarter when Cal scored touchdowns on consecutive drives, extending their lead to 21-3.
In the fourth quarter, the Aztecs finally broke their scoring drought with Tupua'ata-Johnson connecting with Jordan Napier for a 40-yard touchdown. This may offer a glimmer of hope as the Aztecs prepare to face Central Michigan on the road next week.
.jpeg)
0 Comments