Trojans Wire’s Matt Wadleigh presents Fresno State’s key players

The USC Trojans and Fresno State Bulldogs are renewing their matchup this weekend. The Trojans are 2-0 in the Lincoln Riley era and the Bulldogs are one play away from a 2-0 start. However, Oregon State head coach Jonathan Smith pulled off a risky, game-winning play on the final snap in Fresno. An all-or-nothing fourth-down gamble paid off for the Beavers. They beat Fresno State, 35-32, in one of the most thrilling games of the weekend.

With Fresno State coming to Los Angeles, here are 10 Bulldog players to watch for in Saturday’s game at the Coliseum. Fresno State gave USC a memorable battle in 2005, widely regarded as the game in which Reggie Bush clinched his 2005 Heisman Trophy. We will see what magic awaits us this Saturday night. USC fans can study up on these Fresno State standouts:

JAKE HAENER

Sep 10, 2022; Fresno, California, USA; Fresno State Bulldogs quarterback Jake Haener (9) runs the ball against the Oregon State Beavers in the fourth quarter at Valley Children’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Jake Haener is the star of this football team. He willed the Bulldogs to a gritty win over UCLA a year ago, and if Haener can perform well, the Trojans might have a difficult time.

EVAN WILLIAMS

Sep 10, 2022; Fresno, California, USA; Fresno State Bulldogs defensive back Evan Williams (32) celebrates with defensive end Isaiah Johnson (18) and defensive back Elijah Gates (2) after making a tackle against the Oregon State Beavers in the third quarter at Valley Children’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Evan Williams is one of most underrated defensive backs in the Mountain West. He is the focal point of the Fresno State defense.

JOSH KELLY

Sep 10, 2022; Fresno, California, USA; Fresno State Bulldogs wide receiver Josh Kelly (11) makes a catch in front of Oregon State Beavers defensive back Jaydon Grant…