Group of Five Power Rankings, Week 4: I-4 rivals hold position at top

Defending MWC West winner Fresno State bumped up two spots in this week’s Group of Five Power Rankings despite sitting out on a bye week. That was in part thanks to the loss by Akron, but they also jumped ahead of division rival San Diego State after the Aztecs tied in regulation against Eastern Michigan.

To date, the Bulldogs boast a big win over FCS Idaho followed by a split in their two showdowns against Power Five opposition. Fresno State suffered a narrow defeat at Minnesota, followed by a blowout of UCLA by 24 points in the Rose Bowl.

Fresno State is winning thanks to a formidable defense that ranks among the 20 best in the entire FBS. The Bulldogs are holding teams to a sub-300-yard average on offense as they give up only 16 points per game. They also rank in the top 10 in both fumbles recovered and interceptions snatched.

Next week, Fresno State closes out their non-conference schedule with a visit from Toledo. The Rockets, currently 2-1 as well, will be hoping to set themselves up strong for a run at the MAC title. The showdown will serve as a Group of Five elimination game of sorts, with the winner still in the running for a New Year’s Six title and the loser falling completely out of the race.