Fresno State sent a loud message against Georgia Southern: their running game is not just good, it’s one of the best in the Mountain West. With Oregon State looming, the Bulldogs are leaning on their backfield to carry them into the thick of the 2025 season. But for all the power in their run game, one glaring question remains — can EJ Warner stop holding this team back?
The Rushing Attack That Can’t Be Ignored
The Bulldogs’ backfield is loaded with weapons. Donaldson, Luke Ramirez, and Elijah Gilliam make up a three-headed monster that has defenses scrambling. Against Georgia Southern, they dominated — turning what looked like a tough matchup into a showcase of speed and power.
Luke’s burst to the edge is electric. If he finds the corner, he’s gone. Donaldson is steady and punishing, while Gilliam is the X-factor who deserves more touches. Together, they’re not just one of the top rushing groups in the Mountain West — they might be the best in all of Group of Five football.
This ground game is Fresno’s bread and butter. It sets the tone, chews clock, and gives them an identity. When they were bottled up against Kansas earlier this year, the Bulldogs looked lost. When it’s rolling, they look like a team that could steal the spotlight in 2026 when they officially join the new Pac-12.
EJ Warner: The Good, The Bad, and the Turnovers
The biggest concern isn’t the run game — it’s quarterback EJ Warner. Simply put, he’s a liability right now. Four interceptions already this season tell the story. Some were tipped, but most fall squarely on his decision-making. Warner too often forces throws instead of living to see the next down.
When pressured, especially rolling left behind a young and still-developing left tackle in Braden Walton, Warner collapses into mistakes. Two of his interceptions against Georgia Southern came in those exact situations.
It’s not about arm talent — Warner has the aggression and confidence. The problem is he’s aggressive to a fault. Fresno State can’t afford for their quarterback to keep handing away possessions when the run game is doing all the heavy lifting.
Oregon State Test and the Road Ahead
Next up is Oregon State, a team still reeling from a loss to Cal. The Beavers didn’t give up many rushing yards, but Fresno State will test that front early and often. ESPN’s matchup predictor gives the Bulldogs a 62.4% chance of winning, and it feels right — if Warner takes care of the ball.
This is a must-watch game, airing 12:30 PM Pacific on the CW. Fresno State has the chance to prove they’re a legitimate contender. If their rushing attack repeats what it did against Georgia Southern, they’ll be in the driver’s seat. But if turnovers pile up again, it could look a lot like the Kansas game — wasted opportunities, stalled drives, and a painful loss.
Final Word
Fresno State is in good shape — maybe even great shape. Their run game is elite, their defense is growing, and the path in the Mountain West is wide open. But this team’s ceiling all comes down to one thing: EJ Warner’s ability to stop hurting his own offense.
If he calms down and lets Donaldson, Ramirez, and Gilliam lead the way, the Bulldogs could be one of the most dangerous G5 teams in the country. If not? Their season will be defined by missed chances.
