Week 4: Idaho at Utah State

These teams have been outscored by a total of 193 points in five games against FBS foes — all losses. But one of them is going to get a win this week, and it’s difficult to make an argument for either.

Idaho won two years ago in Logan but has lost nine straight road games, 13 straight WAC games and 17 straight games against FBS teams. The defense is shockingly bad, allowing 49.3 points and 440 yards per game. The Vandals do have tailback Deonte Jackson, who has two 100-yard games, and an offense that has produced 10 touchdowns in three games.

Utah State, which won last year in Moscow, has lost eight straight home games but has won its last two WAC games. The Aggies will switch to sophomore quarterback Diondre Borel, who leads the team in rushing and passing as a sparkplug off the bench. Senior Sean Setzer was unable to get a first down on the first drive in his three starts.

Notes:

The series is tied 16-16-2. It also has been 5-5 since the rivalry was renewed in 1996.

Coaches Robb Akey of Idaho and Brent Guy of Utah State are a combined 8-45 at their schools.

Idaho’s T.J. Conley is fourth in the nation in punting with a 48.1-yard average.

Utah State has scored five touchdowns and two field goals on seven red-zone trips. The problem is the Aggies don’t get there often.

Key Player (Vandals) — Deonte Jackson, RB

Jackson has rushed for 100 yards in two of the first three games. He averages 5.5 yards per carry. When he’s on, it takes pressure off sophomore quarterback Nathan Enderle, who is much-improved this season.

Key Player (Aggies) — Diondre Borel, QB

Borel is expected to make his first career start against Idaho. He leads the team with 299 passing yards and 124 rushing yards. He need to be more accurate, only completing 53.7 percent of his passes.

Utah State by 1