Forgive San Jose State for eagerly looking forward to its game against Southern Utah on Saturday night.

The Spartans’ anticipation is understandable because, for the only time in the opening four weeks of the season, they play somebody close to their own size.

After losing at No. 1 Alabama and No. 11 Wisconsin — and with No. 14 Utah coming up next week — San Jose State seeks its first win of the year against an opponent from the Football Championship Subdivision.

According to Southern Utah coach Ed Lamb, the Spartans’ speed will be a primary concern.

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“They have a fast team and we’re going to have to deal with that,” he said. “… We have to play well [and] we have to play hard. They’re a very good team in all areas.”

Former Duke defensive coordinator Mike McIntyre is San Jose State’s new head coach. He replaced Dick Tomey, who retired after last season.

This week, McIntyre’s goal is to continue the Spartans’ success against FCS teams, which are 0-10 against San Jose State since 1980.

For Southern Utah, the Spartans will be their second Football Bowl Subdivision opponent in three weeks.

The Thunderbirds opened with a 28-20 loss at Wyoming before getting their first victory of the season last week against the University of San Diego.

Sophomore quarterback Brad Sorensen threw for 262 yards and three touchdowns in the 32-3 victory over the Toreros.

The key to the win, however, was the play of Southern Utah’s defense.

San Diego managed only 145 yards of total offense, including 36 in the second half. The Toreros threw for only 34 yards — the sixth-lowest total by an opponent in Southern Utah history.

The Thunderbird defense must play well again if SUU hopes to upset San Jose State.

By The Salt Lake Tribune
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/sports/50299125-77/utah-san-jose-southern.html.csp