Week 1 for the San Diego State Aztecs was a sloppy one, to say the least. However, they did enough to get the job done, winning 6-0. While there was a lack of offense, the defense stepped up late in the game as safety, Tariq Thompson, got an interception in the 4th Quarter, which earns today’s play of the game! Also, Saturday night’s shutout was the last shutout since November 16th, 2016! A great accomplishment for the Aztecs defense.
The Aztecs only scored 6 points total through the night, with their first points coming with 4:41 left in the first half on a 34-yard field goal by freshman kicker, Matt Araiza. The next points came with 10:51 left in the game on a 29-yard field goal by Araiza. However, just being a 6-0 game, Weber State was only one touchdown away from winning the game. However, as Weber State started driving down the field, Tariq Thompson came in and got a clutch interception, putting down Weber State for good.
A surprise player that had an impact was Jordan Byrd, who had 5 rushes for 50 yards. He came through when he was needed and helped put the Aztecs in the best position to win the game. Of course, Tariq Thompson’s 4th quarter interception was the true highlight of the game, and an overall great defensive effort by the Aztecs to hold Weber State down and shut them out.
Next, the Aztecs will travel up to Los Angeles to face the UCLA Bruins, which will be their first road game of the season. In order to win this game, the Aztecs have to play smart football, take their time, and drive down the field. The Bruins are coming off a disappointing game from starting quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson, as he finished Thursday’s game with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. Gameday will be Saturday, September 7th, at 1:15 pm.