No. 14 Utah State tries to extend winning streak vs San Jose

Published

San Jose State (1-8, 1-4 Mountain West) at No. 14 Utah State (8-1, 5-0), 4 p.m. EST (Facebook)

Line: Utah State by 31.

Series record: San Jose State 20-17-1

WHAT'S AT STAKE?

Utah State has rolled to eight straight wins and has a one-game lead over Boise State atop the Mountain Division in the Mountain West Conference. The Aggies have a matchup against the Broncos looming in two weeks. San Jose State is looking for its second victory in three games. The Spartans got their first win two weeks ago against UNLV, but stumbled at Wyoming last Saturday.

KEY MATCHUP

Utah State's offense against San Jose State's defense. The Aggies rank second nationally in scoring offense (50.1 ppg) and 14th in total offense (4,371 yards). Utah State has 19 scoring drives that have taken less than a minute, the second most of any FBS team. The Aggies also have 11 scoring drives last 10-plus plays and 25 scoring drives that have covered at least 70 yards. Getting stops will be a major challenge for the Spartans.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

San Jose State: TE Josh Oliver is the top playmaker for the Spartans' offense. He is the only tight end that ranks among the top 50 FBS players in receptions per game. Oliver has 580 yards and three touchdowns on 49 receptions.

Utah State: QB Jordan Love left last week's blow out against Hawaii with a leg injury, but if he is at full strength it will be tough for the Spartans to slow down the Aggies. Over his last three home games, the sophomore has thrown for 1,126 yards and 11 touchdowns.

FACTS & FIGURES

Utah State averages 50.1 points per game. Only Alabama (51.3) has scored more per game among FBS teams this season. . San Jose State has six takeaways while only committing two turnovers over its last three games. . The Aggies have won seven straight in the series dating back to 2008. . Oliver is on track to become only the second San Jose State tight end to catch 50 passes in a season and the fourth to record 100 career receptions. . Utah State WR Savon Scarver leads the nation in kickoff returns (37.3 yards per return), including two TDs.