⚡ CFB Dashboard

- Freshman running back Jhadis Luckey flashed immediate ball-in-hand talent in camp but remains behind while learning assignments, with local walk-on Andrew Chavez holding the apparent edge for the No. 5 backfield spot. - Freshman guard Alex Rivera drew the strongest early praise among Fresno State's summer arrivals because his strength and assignment recognition translated quickly, although the staff views him as more likely to start in 2027. - Freshman interior lineman Efren Siuloa will miss the 2026 season after an injury prevented him from practicing during fall camp. - Fresno State expanded to 11 tight ends, including six true freshmen, so the offense can install heavy packages and repeatedly practice 13 personnel while developing the newcomers. - Freshman tight end Brayden Ford was the quickest summer arrival to emerge in camp, with his 6-foot-6, 250-pound frame giving Fresno State an early blocking and receiving developmental option.

- Fresno State's starting quarterback competition remains between Maryland transfer Khristian Martin and returning redshirt junior Jayden Mandal, with Matt Entz targeting a decision by August 25. - Martin has become more comfortable with Fresno State's pre-snap checks and protections while bringing a quick-learning, mobile profile despite completing only 11 collegiate passes at Maryland. - Mandal enters his second year in the offense about 20 pounds lighter and more elusive, with program familiarity and one prior start offsetting Martin's Power Four background.

- Julius Gillick has emerged as Fresno State's next running back behind returning stars Rayshon Luke and Bryson Donelson, with Matt Entz placing him at No. 3A alongside Tariq Thomas at 3B. - Gillick is being prepared to replace Brandon Ramirez, whose spring injury ended his season after he handled fullback, short-yardage and third-back duties in 2025. - The 5-foot-11, 215-pound Gillick is now the room's largest healthy back and displayed his power and athleticism by hurdling a returning starting safety during a full-pad alley drill. - Offensive coordinator Josh Davis expects Gillick to absorb Ramirez's off-ball responsibilities while also earning touches early in the season, creating a clear breakout pathway within the committee.

- Coaching: Gary Patterson was hired as defensive coordinator for USC earlier this year.

- Defense: My 17th year of Fresno State fall camp coverage looks a little different thanks to efforts from the university and Bulldog Sports Enterprises.

- Intel: The schedule looks favorable this year for the Bulldogs, let’s not screw this up… The rankings for all 8 Pac-12 teams vary across different evaluation models: 1.