San Diego State limits Ohio Bobcats' offense in a 20-13 victory

San Diego State looks to build on a bowl appearance in the 2022 season. The Aztecs captured the 2022 New Mexico Bowl with a victory over Central Michigan University. Head Coach Brady Hoke understood the importance of getting the season running to a good start during the Week 0 of NCAA college season.

San Diego State has built a stout defense the last 3 years putting a notice for every conference opponent in the Mountain West Conference. Quarterback Jalen Mayden played an efficient game throwing for 164 yards and completing 17 of 27 passes. Mayden threw for two touchdowns to his Senior tight end, Mark Redman. Redman had himself a wonderful start to the 2023 season by catching 5 passes for 62 yards including the two touchdowns.

Offensively, the Aztecs did just enough to maintain and hold the lead throughout most of the game. San Diego State’s defense was up to the challenge for every obstacle that Ohio University presented them. The Bobcats were held to 102 total rushing yards, but their longest run of the day was for only 14 yards.

Quarterback C.J. Harris had a QB rating of 34.8, throwing for 1 touchdown after taking over for starter Kurtis Rourke. At halftime the game was up for grabs with the score of 10-6. The Bobcats were not able to capitalize on an efficient drive opening the second half when Ohio missed a 31-yard field goal. San Diego State added a field goal and touchdown to eventually take a lead with Ohio only countering with a touchdown to make it a final 20-13 in favor of San Diego State.

Ohio had their chances including a last minute, 4th quarter drive down 13 to 20 that resulted in a San Diego State interception. Fitting for the game to end with a huge play made by the Aztecs, San Diego State moves to 1-0 on the early season and will host Idaho State in Week 1 next Saturday. Ohio will correct their offensive inefficiencies and host Long Island University at Peden Stadium in Athens, OH.