Aztecs and Warriors start in a defensive slugfest and finish with a late SDSU win.

The Aztecs script was undoubtedly one everyone has seen for many years. Run, run some more and run again. There was no reason to think that the game against visiting Hawaii would be any different. The Warriors were last in the Mountain West in total defense, rushing defense and points allowed. Allowing 40+ points, the Aztecs were sure to find some opportunities with their pound-it-running game to control clock and score points. Being a 20 point favorite all but ensured that the Aztecs, if executing to even a modest level, should handle Hawaii. Added to the drama was Jalen Mayden, a safety this year, who was suddenly thrust into the unenviable position of having to learn offensive plays and step in and lead a team that ranked last in passing in the country.