Brandon Ocegueda / The Collegian

Offense

Fresno State has been consistent on offense throughout the season besides the season opener against California and No. 5 Boise State. Quarterback Derek Carr is in his first season under center and has brought the big play back to the offense. Running back Robbie Rouse has provided big runs every game. Also, he has been connecting with his weapons on the outside in sophomore Jalen Saunders, junior Rashad Evans and senior Devon Wylie.

Grade: B+

Defense

The defense has been a bend-but-don’t-break unit all season. Fresno State has given up the big play against most of its opponents. This in part has been caused by the loss of its two starting safeties in junior Phillip Thomas and sophomore Derron Smith. The ‘Dogs have been inconsistent on any given week as they shut down Utah State’s vaunted rushing attack in the second half of that game, but couldn’t slow down Nevada’s running game.

Grade: C+

Special Teams

The special teams have brought some stability to Fresno State with senior Devon Wylie already returning two punts for touchdowns. Senior Kevin Goessling has made seven out of 11 field goals so far this season. The only game he struggled was against Mississippi when he missed multiple field goals. Other than that, he was been consistent. Junior Andrew Shapiro rounds out the special teams unit and is averaging 40 yards per punt.

Grade: B

Coaching

Fresno State’s coaching staff has had to usher in a young team with a bunch of new starters on both sides of the ball. The offense has a brand new startiing quarterback and young playmakers. On defense, the ‘Dogs lost its two starting safeties in the first weeks of the season. The offensive playcalling has been up and down all season as in the Boise State game it was inconsistent, but in the last two games Fresno State has balanced itself.

Grade: B

Newcomers

The main newcomer on this year’s team is starting quarterback Derek Carr, who has brought back the deep ball to an offense that has needed it. With the added facet, it has opened up more running lanes for running back Robbie Rouse and has given more time for Carr to throw. Carr has brought back the excitement of Bulldog football and now will be the face of the Fresno State program as it will be moving to the Mountain West Conference.

Grade: B+