Fresno State Holds Off Decision on Starting Quarterback for Finale
Fresno State did not name a starting quarterback for the November 25 season finale at San José State, as head coach Matt Entz kept E.J. Warner and Carson Conklin under consideration. The choice mattered to local fans because it reflected how the coaching staff planned to address recent struggles with penalties and third down efficiency and because the decision could shape game plans and community interest for the final game of the regular season.
Fresno State entered its season finale at San José State without a declared starting quarterback, a decision announced by head coach Matt Entz as the Bulldogs completed preparation for the November 25 matchup. With both E.J. Warner and Carson Conklin available, the coaching staff said it would continue evaluating reps in practice and refining game prep to determine who could best manage the offense under pressure.
The timing of the announcement underlined broader performance concerns. Fresno State had faced persistent issues with penalties and conversion on third down, factors that have repeatedly interrupted drives and limited offensive momentum. Those shortcomings informed the staff emphasis on decision making and situational work in the days before the game, as coaches weighed which quarterback could reduce mistakes and sustain drives against San José State defense.
Beyond play calling for a single game, the quarterback choice had implications for player development and roster planning. The staff framed the comparison not only as a competition for a start but as a chance to assess leadership, pocket presence, and the ability to execute under a tighter margin of error. That evaluation process shaped how practice reps were allocated and how game scenarios were rehearsed during the final week of preparation.
Local implications extended beyond the field. The kickoff attracted Fresno fans and alumni, who track quarterback decisions as a signal of program direction and recruiting appeal. Game day interest influences ticket sales and the hospitality economy, including restaurants and hotels that serve traveling supporters. The unresolved starter question also had bearing on short term media attention and booster engagement as the program heads into the off season.
For the community that follows the Bulldogs, the staff decision process illustrated a pragmatic focus on correcting fundamental issues rather than rushing a headline move. How Entz and his staff balanced immediate needs with longer term development will matter for recruiting conversations and the program s trajectory in the seasons ahead.
