A century-old rivalry that never fails to deliver excitement
The rivalry between San Diego State University (SDSU) and Fresno State University is one of the most storied and passionate in college football. The two schools are separated by just over 200 miles, and their rivalry dates back to 1923. Over the years, the two schools have met 55 times on the gridiron, with SDSU holding a slight 28-26-1 advantage.

The rivalry is particularly intense due to the close proximity of the two schools. Fans of both teams often make the trip to the other school’s stadium, and the atmosphere is always electric. The games are often decided by a single play, and the fans are always on the edge of their seats.
In recent years, the rivalry has been particularly competitive. SDSU has won the last two meetings, including a 48-14 victory in 2022. However, Fresno State has a long history of success in the rivalry, and they are always a threat to win.
A brief history of the rivalry
The first meeting between SDSU and Fresno State took place in 1923. SDSU won the game 14-0, and the rivalry was born. The two schools met again in 1924, and Fresno State won 14-7. The rivalry continued to be competitive throughout the 1920s and 1930s, with each team winning their share of games.
In the 1940s and 1950s, Fresno State began to dominate the rivalry. The Bulldogs won 10 of the 11 meetings during that time period, including a 55-0 victory in 1947. SDSU finally broke the Bulldogs’ streak in 1959, and the rivalry has been more balanced ever since.
The game that changed everything
The 1970 game between SDSU and Fresno State is considered by many to be the game that changed the rivalry. SDSU was a heavy underdog going into the game, but they pulled off a stunning 21-14 upset. The victory gave SDSU their first win over Fresno State in over a decade, and it helped to establish the Aztecs as a legitimate force in the rivalry.
The rivalry today
The rivalry between SDSU and Fresno State is as intense as ever today. The two schools are both members of the Mountain West Conference, and they are always competing for the conference championship. The games are always close, and the fans are always passionate.
The rivalry is more than just a football game. It is a source of pride for both schools, and it is a tradition that has been passed down for generations. The rivalry will continue to be one of the most intense and passionate in college football for many years to come.
Why the rivalry matters
The rivalry between SDSU and Fresno State matters for a number of reasons. First, it is a source of pride for both schools. The fans of both teams are passionate about their schools, and they take great pride in beating the other team.
Second, the rivalry is a tradition. The two schools have been playing each other for over a century, and the rivalry is now a part of the fabric of both schools. The fans of both teams look forward to the game each year, and it is a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation.
Third, the rivalry is a way to bring the two communities together. The fans of both schools come together to cheer on their teams, and the games are a way to celebrate the rivalry and the shared history of the two schools.
How the rivalry benefits both schools
The rivalry between SDSU and Fresno State benefits both schools in a number of ways. First, the rivalry helps to generate revenue for both schools. The games are a major source of income for both athletic departments, and the money is used to support a variety of programs and services.
Second, the rivalry helps to raise the profile of both schools. The games are televised nationally, and they help to put both schools on the map. This increased exposure can lead to more students, donors, and research funding.
Third, the rivalry helps to create a sense of community at both schools. The fans of both teams come together to cheer on their teams, and the games are a way to celebrate the rivalry and the shared history of the two schools. This sense of community can help to boost morale and improve the overall student experience.
Strategies for success in the rivalry
There are a number of strategies that SDSU and Fresno State can use to be successful in the rivalry. First, both schools need to recruit and develop talented players. The best teams in the rivalry are always the ones with the best players.
Second, both schools need to have a strong coaching staff. The coaches need to be able to motivate their players and put them in a position to win.
Third, both schools need to have a strong game plan. The coaches need to be able to come up with a game plan that exploits the weaknesses of the other team and plays to the strengths of their own team.
Fourth, both schools need to have a strong fan base. The fans can provide a great home-field
Conclusion
The rivalry between SDSU and Fresno State is one of the most intense and passionate in college football. The two schools are separated by just over 200 miles, and their rivalry dates back to 1923. Over the years, the two schools have met 55 times on the gridiron, with SDSU holding a slight 28-26-1 advantage.
The rivalry is particularly intense due to the close proximity of the two schools. Fans of both teams often make the trip to the other school’s stadium, and the atmosphere is always electric. The games are often decided by a single play, and the fans are always on the edge of their seats.
The rivalry is more than just a football game. It is a source of pride for both schools, and it is a tradition that has been passed down for generations. The rivalry will continue to be one of the most intense and passionate in college football for many years to come.