Defensive lineman Deijon Laffite said the Bulldogs are focused on maintaining the culture that has defined the program.
"There's no logo heavier than Fresno State of the Bulldogs logo. We're doing it for the guys before us and the guys after us. Just because we're in the Pac-12, the standard doesn't change," Laffite said.
That message aligns with head coach Matt Entz's longstanding philosophy that "the standard is the standard."
Laffite said Fresno State intends to keep its identity as a hard-working, physical team regardless of its opponent.
"No matter what anyone can say, Fresno State is always going to be a hard-working team. Staying true to that, having a culture of, like you said, being a gritty team, and no matter who we play, it's not going to be a layup," he said.
While the Bulldogs are embracing the opportunity to compete against new opponents, Entz acknowledged the challenge of maintaining consistency throughout the season.
"The work is going to be out there for us, and to be able to sustain it year-long is going to be the challenge," Entz said.
The transition to a larger conference also brings financial considerations for the athletic department.
Athletic Director Garrett Klassy said Fresno State must ensure its resources align with its competitive expectations across all sports.
"We have the responsibility for this university to put winning programs on the field. Not just football but any program. The resources have to match the expectations here and we have to be realistic," Klassy said.
Klassy said the department continues to evaluate where investments are needed most, including roster development and facility improvements.
"Valley Children's stadium is an incredible home field advantage but it doesn't have the premium seating in there to fund the programs the way we need," he said.
The Bulldogs' focus, however, remains on weekly improvement and winning each game on its own merits.
Fresno State is also expected to have a competition at quarterback this season, with Buchanan High School graduate Jayden Mandal and Maryland transfer Kristian Martin competing for the starting role.
The Bulldogs will open the season with a nationally televised road game against USC on Friday, September 4.
Entz said establishing momentum early will be important.
"One of my mentors always told me if you can win the first of everything. You'll be okay. Win the first of the year, first on the road, first conference game, first night game, whatever it may be," Entz said.
In addition to looking ahead to the season, Fresno State will celebrate one of its former standouts this fall. Former offensive lineman Logan Mankins will be inducted into Fresno State's Ring of Honor on Oct. 10 during the Bulldogs' homecoming game against Boise State.
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