Johnson’s 97-Yard Pick-6 Highlights SDSU’s 34-0 Rout of Previously Undefeated Cal

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San Diego State delivered a statement performance Saturday night, stunning previously undefeated California with a dominant 34-0 victory at home. Highlighting the Aztecs’ defensive prowess, Chris Johnson returned an interception 97 yards for a touchdown, while Dwayne McDougle added a 35-yard fumble return score. The Aztecs (2-1) bounced back emphatically two weeks after a 36-13 loss to future Pac-12 foe Washington State, sending a clear message about their resilience. California (3-1) saw its 4-0 hopes dashed as SDSU’s defense smothered the Bears throughout the night. Quarterback Jayden Denegal connected with Jordan Napier for two touchdowns, including a six-yard strike coming two plays after an 80-yard reception. Napier finished the night with nine catches for 154 yards, showcasing his big-play potential. Lucky Sutton also contributed on the ground with a three-yard touchdown run, while Gabe Plascencia converted two field goals from 34 and 41 yards.

SDSU’s defensive highlights were particularly striking. Johnson intercepted true freshman Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele and sprinted down the right sideline to give the Aztecs a commanding 27-0 lead late in the third quarter. Earlier, Dalesean Staley forced a fumble on Kendrick Raphael, which McDougle scooped up and returned untouched for a score. Staley would later add an interception of his own.

Coach Sean Lewis praised his team’s poise and emotional toughness. “That’s a good team that played well on a good night. I’m really proud of them. They’ve responded to coaching, situations, and the incredible opportunity tonight against a really good football team,” Lewis said. SDSU’s performance was historic. It marked the first shutout against a current power-conference opponent since a 25-0 win over Oregon State in 1975. It was also the largest margin of victory against a power-conference team in Aztec history, surpassing a 42-10 win over Arizona in 1979. With a season-opening 42-0 home shutout against Stony Brook, SDSU has now started consecutive home games with shutouts for the first time in its Division I era.

Looking ahead, California opens ACC play against Boston College next Saturday, while the Aztecs travel to Northern Illinois, aiming to continue their dominant form.