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**Cougars Face Aztecs: What to Watch for in Saturday’s Showdown**

**PULLMAN, WA** – Washington State University (WSU) prepares to host San Diego State University (SDSU) Saturday at 7:15 p.m. in a game airing on The CW, with key matchups on both sides of the ball set to determine the outcome.

The Aztecs’ offense is led by quarterback Jayden Denegal, a Michigan transfer and former backup on their national championship team. While not known for his mobility, Denegal boasts a strong arm and a stable of capable receivers, including Iowa and Texas A&M transfer Jacob Bostick who had 53 yards and a touchdown in their opener.

However, SDSU’s ground game, powered by junior running back Lucky Sutton and an experienced offensive line that features 139 combined starts, is where the Cougars’ defense will need to make a stand. Last week, the Aztecs racked up 228 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

WSU’s defense gave up 188 yards against Idaho, but 100 of those yards came from their mobile quarterback, something Denegal doesn’t present. The Cougar defense will need to pressure Denegal, forcing him to make plays on his feet, something he’s not accustomed to.

The Cougars’ offensive line faces a tough test against SDSU’s defensive front. To give Jaxon Potter, who is coming off an efficient 23-for-30, one-touchdown performance in his second career start, a chance to succeed, WSU’s offense must avoid penalties, an issue that plagued them early in their previous game. The Cougars will also need to find new targets for Potter with Devin Ellison out with an injury.

Ultimately, the game will likely hinge on whether WSU can contain SDSU’s rushing attack and generate pressure on Denegal, while simultaneously cleaning up their own offensive execution and providing Potter with the time and targets he needs to lead the Cougars to victory.

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