The Fresno State Bulldogs kicked off their 2019 campaign last week at USC. The Dogs put up a fight but came up short at 23-31. Fresno State had multiple opportunities to take control of the game, but 2 red zone turnovers cost them as did a 100 yard kickoff return by USC. The Dogs have no time to waste as the Minnesota Gophers come into town. This is the first time since 2015 a Power 5 team is coming into the Bulldog stadium.

For Fresno State this game is important. The Dogs are coming coming off of a heartbreaking loss and have to avoid going 0-2. Fresno State also lost to Minnesota last year, down to the wire when Josh Hoikt threw an interception with 1:18 left in the game, which could have gave Fresno State an opportunity to tie the game. This game is big for both teams: for Fresno State, they haven’t been 0-2 since Jeff Tedford took over. For Minnesota, they have 16 straight non-conference games, which is the longest in the nation.

Keys to the game:

For the Gophers, this game will really show who they are. After last week’s disappointing performance to FCS South Dakota State, Minnesota will have to prove to everyone why this team is a contender in the Big Ten West. The Gophers have a very talented O-Line, but they didn’t play so great last week. This week Minnesota has to win up-front and run the ball against a very good defense. The Gophers also have to make Jorge Reyna stay in the pocket and make him beat them with his arm and not his legs.

For the Dogs, all eyes will be on QB Jorge Reyna. Reyna went 19-39, 256 passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns, and 1 Interception running for 88 yards on the ground. Reyna had a shaky first start but showed resiliency and poise late in the game. If Reyna can be more accurate and make plays with his arm, the Dogs will be in a good spot. Fresno State also has to get Rivers and Hokit going in the running game, this is something they struggled to do last year against Minnesota. On defense, getting pressure to the QB and making tackles will be the key. Fresno State didn’t get much pressure on USC last week and missed a lot of tackles. Defense will win the game in this one depending on which team can force more takeaways and make a stop at the end.

Minnesota looks to go 2-0 as the Fresno State Bulldogs look to get win number one. The Red Wave will be in full effect tonight. Will Fresno State get revenge tonight? Find out Tonight at 7:30 at Bulldog Stadium or on CBS Sports Network.

Twitter: @tnijhar2 | Read all of his articles HERE.