Here’s a bold statement: the rivalry between San Diego State and Nevada is more than just a game—it’s a rollercoaster of emotions, strategy, and unexpected twists. But here’s where it gets controversial: Nevada’s quarterback situation is a mystery, and it’s sparking debates among fans and analysts alike. Are the Wolf Pack playing mind games, or are they genuinely undecided? Let’s dive in.
San Diego State and Nevada have a history that spans 80 years, with 16 matchups on the gridiron. However, it wasn’t until 2012, when Nevada joined the Mountain West, that this rivalry gained consistency. The most unforgettable—and cringe-worthy—moment came two years ago at Snapdragon Stadium. Nevada handed SDSU a devastating 6-0 loss, snapping their own 16-game losing streak and sending former SDSU coach Brady Hoke into what many called an early retirement. And this is the part most people miss: Despite Nevada’s abysmal defensive rankings that season (129th in scoring defense, 130th in total offense allowed, and 126th in passing yards allowed), SDSU managed a mere 47 passing yards and was shut out for the first time in five years. Talk about a humbling experience.
Fast forward to today, both teams have undergone coaching changes after the 2023 season, aiming to reset and rebuild. Over the past ten games, dating back to 2014, the series is perfectly even at 5-5, with five of the last six meetings decided by less than a touchdown. This weekend, SDSU (4-1, 1-0 Mountain West) enters as a 7.5-point favorite against Nevada (1-4, 0-1 MW) at Mackay Stadium. But don’t let the odds fool you—this game is far from a sure thing.
Nevada, once a bowl game regular with 14 appearances from 2005 to 2021, has hit a rough patch with three consecutive 10-loss seasons. The 2025 season hasn’t been kind either, though the Wolf Pack have shown glimpses of competitiveness. Their only win came against Sacramento State (20-17), sandwiched between losses to powerhouses like Penn State (46-11) and conference rivals like Fresno State (20-17). Here’s the kicker: Turnovers have been Nevada’s Achilles’ heel, leading the nation with 14 giveaways. As Coach Jeff Choate bluntly put it, ‘Clearly, that’s the thing that’s holding us back.’
The quarterback position is where things get murky. Starter Chubba Purdy, brother of NFL star Brock Purdy, has struggled mightily, throwing 8 interceptions against just 1 touchdown. After being benched in the Fresno State game, true freshman Carter Jones stepped in, going 11-for-16 for 121 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Choate was tight-lipped about who will start this week, saying, ‘I don’t know that it helps us to tell you who is playing quarterback. I think that helps [San Diego State].’ Is this strategic secrecy or genuine indecision? You decide.
SDSU Coach Sean Lewis expects Jones to start but is preparing for multiple quarterback looks. Nevada’s offense also features standout wide receivers Marcus Bellon and Jordan Brown, along with tight end Jett Carpenter. On the ground, Purdy leads the team in rushing, supported by Caleb Ramseur and Herschel Turner.
Defensively, Nevada ranks 82nd in points allowed (25.6) and 74th in yards allowed (372.8 ypg). Their pass rush has been a bright spot, with Dylan Labarbera and Jonathan Maldonado leading the team in sacks. Special teams have been solid, with kicker Joe McFadden hitting 9 of 12 field goals and punter Bailey Ettridge averaging 43.7 yards per punt.
Fun fact to lighten the mood: Chubba Purdy’s real name is Preston. The nickname ‘Chubba’? It came from weighing 38 pounds at just one year old. ‘Thank the Lord I thinned out a little bit,’ he joked.
As we head into Saturday’s 7:30 p.m. kickoff at Mackay Stadium (CBSSN, 760-AM), the question remains: Can Nevada turn their season around, or will SDSU continue their dominance? What’s your take? Is Nevada’s quarterback mystery a stroke of genius or a sign of deeper issues? Let’s hear it in the comments!
