Fresno State quarterback Jayden Mandal took a big hit and fumbled the ball at the end of a scramble, drawing a loud reaction throughout Valley Children’s Stadium.
That wasn’t the only time many of the announced crowd of 39,001 seemed concerned Saturday.
Fresno State failed to score once again during the first quarter, leading to some anxiousness among the Red Wave with the Bulldogs still scoreless on the season in opening quarters.
On both occasions, however, Mandal showed a calmness and reacted like he knew exactly what he to do next: Pick himself back up and move on to the following play — regardless of any pain or frustration.
Mandal’s toughness and quick recovery proved to be a key reason why Fresno State rallied for a 38-24 victory against Rice in nonconference play.
The first-year starter completed 22 of 34 passes for 210 yards and three touchdowns while spreading the ball around to 11 different players. Mandal also generated 57 rushing yards on five carries.
“Toughness wins,” Fresno State coach Matt Entz said. “He’s gritty. He represents what the Bulldogs are.”
While Entz didn’t really like watching his quarterback absorb a big hit, he did enjoy seeing Mandal once again avoid any turnovers.
Winning the turnover contest has remained the foundation of success with Entz’s programs over the years.
Saturday was no different.
Fresno State’s offense had a turnover-free performance (Mandal’s one fumble was recovered by the Bulldogs). Meanwhile, its defense made an interception and recovered a fumble.
That combination resulted in Fresno State’s third straight win.
For the season, the Bulldogs (3-1) have forced nine turnovers to two turnovers committed, and rank among the top 10 in the country in turnover margin.
“We spend a lot of time and effort on ball security,” Entz said.
It’s why Mandal understands why he should’ve done a better job in avoiding the big collision that led to a fumble.
“Got rocked a little bit,” Mandal said. “We’ll learn from it. I just didn’t see him.”
Mandal and Entz also believe the Bulldogs will get better at starting games faster and stronger.
“Those first two drives (were) pretty rough,” Mandal said. “I’m really glad how we bounced back.
“Everyone just calmed down and finally got in their groove.”
Fresno State has been outscored a combined 17-0 in the first quarter through the first four games of the season, including a 7-0 deficit against Rice.
“I’m not going to overreact to something like that,” Entz said about the Bulldogs’ first quarter struggles. “We talk about starting fast. Starting fast doesn’t mean you’ve got to score. It means let’s have some success …
“We came out with the win. We’ll continue to learn and grow.”
Running back Rayshon Luke amassed a career-high 167 rushing yards, including a 52-yard touchdown run, on 11 carries.
Receiver Josiah Freeman hauled in six catches for 66 yards, including a 6-yard touchdown for the Bulldogs’ first score Saturday.
Fresno State wide receiver Josiah Freeman,spins away from Rice’s Ahran Ogbor Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 in Fresno. Rice led 17-14 at halftime. ERIC PAUL ZAMORA ezamora@fresnobee.com
Fresno State linebacker K’Vion Thunderbird finished with nine tackles, including three unassisted. Fellow linebacker Tytus Khajavi added four tackles, two sacks and forced fumble.
Defensive back Simeon Harris had an interception, along with six tackles.
Fresno State’s Taylor Powell, left, and K’vion Thunderbird, right, bring down Rice quarterback Jacurri Brown, center, in second quarter action Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 in Fresno. Rice led 17-14 at halftime. ERIC PAUL ZAMORA ezamora@fresnobee.com
Rice’s triple-option attack actually generated more offense than Fresno State: 463 total yards to 459.
Entz expressed relief to get the unique matchup out of the way.
“Thank goodness the week is over,” Entz said. “They’re tough to defend.”
Fresno State head coach Matt Entz is seen along the sidelines in the game against Rice Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 in Fresno. Rice led 17-14 at halftime. ERIC PAUL ZAMORA ezamora@fresnobee.com 
Fresno State defensive back Taylor Powell gives a thumbs down after Rice failed to complete a fourth quarter pass in the Bulldogs’ 38-24 win over the Owls Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 in Fresno. ERIC PAUL ZAMORA ezamora@fresnobee.com 
Fresno State’s Rayshon Luke, left, carries the ball against Rice Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 in Fresno. Rice led 17-14 at halftime. ERIC PAUL ZAMORA ezamora@fresnobee.com
This story was originally published September 27, 2026 at 12:07 AM.
The Fresno Bee
Bryant-Jon Anteola is a multimedia reporter for The Fresno Bee, writing stories and producing videos about sports, news and random topics relatable to those in the Fresno area. He’s won a McClatchy President’s Award and received honorable mention by the Associated Press Sports Editors. He enjoys sports because of the competition, camaraderie and energy, and views sports as a microcosm of society.