San Diego State eyes Mountain West crown exit in final conference season

San Diego State eyes Mountain West crown exit in final conference season originally appeared on The Sporting News

San Diego State made a powerful statement in Week 6 of their final Mountain West season, dominating Colorado State 45–24. Quarterback Jayden Denegal was nearly flawless, throwing for 256 yards and two touchdowns, while Jordan Napier racked up 153 receiving yards and a score.

The Aztecs (4–1, 1–0 MW) exploded for 540 yards of offense, including 282 on the ground. Byron Cardwell Jr. and Lucky Sutton each topped 100 rushing yards and combined for three touchdowns, showcasing a balanced, dangerous attack that asserts SDSU’s dominance — the mark of a true King of the Hill. The Aztecs have played with the confidence of reigning contenders defending their domain — a throne they’ve pursued since their last Mountain West title in 2016.

Defensively, SDSU totaled four sacks and eight tackles for loss, smothering Colorado State’s run game and controlling the tempo. Kicker Gabriel Plascencia remained perfect with a 53-yard field goal, extending his streak to 19 straight. The Aztecs’ defensive and special teams dominance reinforced their position as a powerhouse in the conference.

San Diego State’s last Mountain West championship came in 2016, when they edged Wyoming 27–24 in a thrilling conference title game, securing back-to-back crowns. Since then, the Aztecs have chased that title with grit and determination. This final season offers a chance for a memorable send-off, a chance to reclaim the crown before departing the Mountain West.

This isn’t just any season — it’s SDSU’s farewell chapter in the conference. Winning the crown now would be a crowning achievement to their storied tenure, a true “King of the Hill” farewell. With six conference games remaining — including key matchups at Fresno State (Oct. 25), at Hawai’i (Nov. 8), and at New Mexico in the regular-season finale (Nov. 28) — the Aztecs have the opportunity to prove they belong on top. Home games against Wyoming, Boise State, and San José State at Snapdragon Stadium will be crucial in their bid to exit the conference as champions.

Led by Jayden Denegal and a balanced offense, SDSU stands primed to complete their Mountain West farewell tour not just with pride — but with the title firmly in hand. The throne is within reach.

The question remains: will San Diego State leave the Mountain West as the undisputed King of the Hill?

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