San Diego Aztecs Football Team's Top 5 Must-Watch Games This Season

As a longtime college football analyst who’s followed the San Diego Aztecs for over a decade, I’ve seen my share of thrilling matchups and heart-stopping finishes. This season, though, feels different—there’s a buzz around the program that’s hard to ignore. With a mix of returning veterans and promising newcomers, the Aztecs are poised to make some serious noise, and I’m genuinely excited to break down their top five must-watch games. Trust me, if you’re a fan or just love compelling football, you won’t want to miss these. Absolutely, if possible, you should clear your schedule for these dates—they’re that promising.

Let’s kick things off with the season opener against the UCLA Bruins on September 2nd at Snapdragon Stadium. This isn’t just any non-conference game; it’s a rivalry that dates back years, and the intensity always spills onto the field. Last season, the Aztecs fell short by a touchdown in a nail-biter, but with quarterback Jalen Mitchell returning after throwing for 2,850 yards and 22 touchdowns, I’m betting on a redemption story. The atmosphere here is electric—I’ve been to countless openers, and this one has all the makings of an instant classic. If the defense can contain UCLA’s speedy receivers, we might just see an upset that sets the tone for the whole year. Personally, I love how the Aztecs play with a chip on their shoulder in these early games; it’s like they’re out to prove something from day one.

Next up, the road game against the Boise State Broncos on October 14th stands out as a potential season-definer. Boise’s blue turf is infamous for tripping up opponents, but the Aztecs have historically held their own there. I remember watching their 2021 clash where San Diego eked out a 24-21 win in overtime—it was gritty, hard-nosed football at its finest. This year, with both teams eyeing the Mountain West title, the stakes are sky-high. Boise’s offense averaged 31 points per game last season, so the Aztecs’ secondary, led by senior cornerback Marcus Lee, will need to be flawless. From my perspective, this is where coaching shines; head coach David Rodriguez’s play-calling in tight spots has won them games before, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he pulls out a trick play or two here. It’s a mid-season test that could make or break their conference hopes, and I’m leaning toward a close, hard-fought victory for the Aztecs.

Then there’s the homecoming showdown versus the Fresno State Bulldogs on November 4th. Homecoming games always carry extra weight—the crowd is louder, the players are amped up, and the tradition adds a layer of drama. Fresno State edged out the Aztecs 28-24 last year in a game that came down to the final drive, and I still think about that missed field goal that could’ve turned the tide. This time, with San Diego’s offense looking more balanced—they’ve added a freshman running back, Jake Thompson, who rushed for over 1,200 yards in high school—I expect a higher-scoring affair. The Bulldogs’ defense allowed an average of 340 yards per game in 2022, so if the Aztecs can exploit that, we might see a breakout performance. I’ve got a soft spot for homecoming games; the energy is contagious, and it often brings out the best in the team. Mark this one as a potential shootout that could swing either way.

Another critical matchup is the away game against the Nevada Wolf Pack on November 18th. On paper, Nevada might not seem like a giant, but they’ve been a thorn in the Aztecs’ side in recent years. Last season’s 17-14 loss in rainy conditions was a slog, and it exposed some weaknesses in San Diego’s ground game. This year, with improved offensive line depth—they’ve added two transfers averaging 6’5” and 310 pounds—I’m optimistic they can control the trenches. Nevada’s home-field advantage isn’t as daunting as Boise’s, but their quarterback, Ryan Cobb, threw for 2,400 yards last season, so the Aztecs can’t afford to sleep on this one. From my experience covering these late-season games, fatigue starts to set in, and that’s when mental toughness separates the contenders from the pretenders. I’m predicting a bounce-back win here, maybe by a margin of 10 points or so, as long as the team stays disciplined.

Finally, the regular-season finale against the Air Force Falcons on November 25th at Snapdragon Stadium is one I’ve circled on my calendar. Air Force’s triple-option offense is a nightmare to prepare for—they led the nation in rushing last year with over 3,200 yards—and it always tests the Aztecs’ defensive discipline. In their 2022 meeting, San Diego managed a 21-17 win thanks to a last-minute interception, and I can still picture the stadium erupting. This year, with conference standings likely on the line, every possession will matter. The Aztecs’ linebackers, including standout junior Alex Rivera, will need to play the game of their lives to contain that ground attack. I’ll be honest: I’m a bit biased toward defensive battles, and this one has all the ingredients—physicality, strategy, and high stakes. If the Aztecs can limit big plays, they might just cap the season with a statement win.

Wrapping it up, this San Diego Aztecs football schedule is packed with opportunities to shine, and these five games are the ones I’m most eager to watch. From the opener’s emotional charge to the finale’s strategic grind, each contest offers a unique storyline that could define the team’s trajectory. As someone who’s analyzed countless seasons, I can say that this group has the talent and grit to exceed expectations—absolutely, if possible, tune in and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, these matchups promise excitement, drama, and maybe a few surprises along the way.