# Fresno State football season developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/fresno-state-football-season-developments
> Updated: 2026-09-13T06:30:08.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Fresno State Head Coach Matt Entz named Jayden Mandal as the starting quarterback for the upcoming season following a competitive fall camp. Entz noted Mandal’s timing, accuracy, and ability to command the huddle as key factors in the decision.

Mandal, returning to the starting role after missing a season due to injury, led the team to a 49-3 victory over Sacramento State in the home opener at Valley Children’s Stadium. The win, which marks Fresno State’s first victory in the Pac-12 era, extends the Bulldogs’ all-time series record against Sacramento State to 10-0.

During the game, Mandal completed 23 of 26 passes for 316 yards and two passing touchdowns, while also adding a rushing touchdown. Other key contributors included running back Bryson Donelson, who recorded 102 rushing yards and three touchdowns, and wide receivers Ezekiel Avit and Josiah Freeman, who both surpassed 100 receiving yards. Fresno State outgained Sacramento State 542-262, holding the Hornets to just three points. The victory brings Fresno State to a 1-1 record.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-13: Fresno State defeats Sacramento State 49-3

Fresno State defeated Sacramento State 49-3, led by Jayden Mandal’s 316 passing yards and Bryson Donelson’s three rushing touchdowns.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fresno-state-defeats-sacramento-state-49-3

### 2026-08-31: Jayden Mandal named Fresno State starting quarterback

Fresno State Head Coach Matt Entz has named Jayden Mandal as the starting quarterback for the upcoming season after he won a competitive fall camp battle.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jayden-mandal-named-fresno-state-starting-quarterback

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Cite as: Fresno State football season developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/fresno-state-football-season-developments