Early San Diego College Football Preview according to Lindy's Sports

We obtained a copy of Lindy Sport's annual College Football Preview magazine to gain an early understanding of how the national media will perceive collegiate teams and players from San Diego County in 2022. Even though the season begins in less than three months, there is plenty to be excited about and concerned about this Fall.

Rating the Teams: San Diego State

Fresh off a school-record 12 wins in 2021, Lindy's Sports has San Diego State going into its 100th season of football ranked 69th out of 131 FBS teams, and fourth in the Mountian West Conference. The Aztecs' 3-3-5 defense is expected to remain one of the best in the country, but the quarterback position continues to be a question mark.

Braxton Burmeister, a La Jolla Country Day alum, could be the long-awaited answer to San Diego State's passing game that was ranked among the worst in the FBS. The senior transfer from Virginia Tech will look to target Patrick Henry alum Jessie Matthews, who had a breakout junior year with 57 catches for 642 yards and nine touchdowns. With former Bonita Vista standout, Greg Bell heading to the NFL, Madison alum Kenan Christon, projected starter Chance Bell, and return specialist Jordan Byrd will be among a stacked backfield competing to replace him as the primary tailback. Christon's track speed, which was underutilized at USC, should be an explosive addition to an already solid-looking offense. On September 3rd, the Aztecs will open the season against Arizona at the brand-new Snapdragon Stadium.

Toreros picked to win Pioneer Football League, again.

The University of San Diego Toreros (7-4, 7-1 PFL) look to build on their success from last season when they finished with a seven-game winning streak and a share of the league's record-tying 12th PFL championship. Davidson (8-3, 7-1 PFL), which has won the last two games against USD and the previous two automatic bids to the FCS Playoffs, will be one of their biggest threats to a record-breaking 13th title. The match between last year's co-champions will take place at Torero Stadium on November 12th. Dayton (6-4, 5-3 PFL) and Morehead State (6-4, 6-2 PFL) are also expected to compete at the top of the standings.

San Diego's defense returns FCS Sophomore All-American defensive tackle Will Buck and a veteran secondary led by safety Hunter Nichols, and cornerbacks Amir and Zamir Wallace. The Toreros have to find a new starting quarterback to replace Mason Randolph. The heavy favorite appears to be Re-al Mitchell, a transfer from Iowa State. Wide receiver Vance Jefferson (Poway) had a productive 2021 season and is expected to be the top option for whoever is named QB1. Following the departures of Emilio Martinez and Terrence Smith, the addition of Chris Childers could provide a spark to the run game. Childers arrived at USD last month after transferring from Indiana State.

Projected FBS Starters from the San Diego Section

Tyler Buchner (Norte Dame), QB, So., BISHOP'S

Braxton Burmeister (SDSU), QB, Sr., LA JOLLA COUNTRY DAY

Byron Cardwell (Oregon), RB, So., MORSE

Keyshawn Smith (Miami), WR, So., LINCOLN*

Jessie Matthews (SDSU), WR, Sr., PATRICK HENRY*

Ezekiel Noa (Boise State), LB, Sr., HELIX*

Ryan Sanborn (Stanford), P, Sr., FRANCIS PARKER*

Micheal Shawcroft (SDSU), LB, Sr., HELIX*

JL Skinner (Boise State), SS, Sr., POINT LOMA*

Ross Ulugalu-Maseuli (SDSU), OL, Fr., CATHEDRAL CATHOLIC

*Returning Starter

Top Incoming Freshmen

Jalil Tucker (Oregon), CB, LINCOLN

Jahlil Florence (Oregon), CB, LINCOLN