"It's only a rivalry if you do your part on your end to make it a rivalry and we haven't done that the last few years," said Fresno State Head Coach Tim DeRuyter. "But we have an opportunity with this year's team to go do it."
Like big brother talking about little brother, Boise State is complimentary of our Bulldogs.
"Those guys always play hard from years past so that's why we respect those guys a lot," said Charles Leno Jr., a Boise State senior offensive lineman.
But Fresno State is tired of the forced compliments, saying they don't need any more motivation to play the Bronco than they already have.
"That's what the offseason is for," said Bulldogs Quarterback Derek Carr. "It definitely did during the offseason. But now it's just what can I do today to get better, really just to not get caught up in all of it. Just go out and play your game and do what you know you can do."
The fact is Boise State has scored at least 51 points in each of the last four battles, while Fresno State has scored 51 points total in those four games. And the pressure is there, even for the newest Bulldogs.
"When I spoke throughout the valley and in Southern California, everywhere I went the one team that everyone talked about was this team," Said Coach DeRuyter, referring to Boise State.
And if the Red Wave is reminding the coach, imagine how the Bulldog seniors feel, knowing Saturday is their last chance to take down Boise State.
"It's something that I came to Fresno to do – just try to get a win against Boise," said Fresno State's Travis Brown, a senior linebacker. "This year I feel is our best shot."
Boise State hasn't lost at Bronco Stadium in 39 of its last 40 games. But one thing is for sure: This group of hungry Bulldogs will look to snap its six-game losing streak against Boise State on Saturday.
