Despite turning the ball over three times in the first quarter, the San Jose St. Spartans only trail the Idaho Vandals by seven points, though they are being shut out. Idaho took the 7-0 lead despite being outgained by San Jose 55 yards to 26.
David Freeman muffed the opening kickoff, handing the ball to the Vandals inside the red zone, which led to Idaho taking a 7-0 lead within the first minute. David Fales threw an interception on the following drive, but San Jose's defense was able to a make a stop and escape without damage. The next offensive drive for the Spartans ended with a turnover on downs, and the follies continued on the next possession. After the defense stopped Idaho again, Ronnie Yell fumbled the following Vandal punt, handing the ball over yet again.
Fales is 4 for 7 for 27 yards. De'Leon Eskridge leads the team in rushing, with 24 yards on six carries. The offensive troubles are widespread. Blake Jurich entered the game to pick up a first down on a wildcat snap, but he was stopped short of the line and SJSU was forced to punt.
It's still early in Idaho, but if the Spartans want the win that will get them to bowl eligibility, they'll need to settle in and find something that works on offense.
