Fresno State Football

Is it time for Fresno State to bench E.J. Warner after bad loss? What fans are saying

Fresno State quarterback E.J. Warner prepares to throw in the game against Nevada Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025 in Fresno.
Fresno State quarterback E.J. Warner prepares to throw in the game against Nevada Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025 in Fresno. ezamora@fresnobee.com

Maybe it is time for Fresno State head coach Matt Entz to bench starting quarterback E.J. Warner.

At least that is what some fans are hoping for after the Bulldogs lost to Colorado State 49-21 in Fort Collins, Colo. on Friday night.

Consider: Warner threw three interceptions and fumbled that led to a Rams touchdown in the second quarter that put the Bulldogs in a 35-7 deficit.

It is unknown if Entz will make the call to bench Warner, but it should be a consideration given the Bulldogs need a spark on offense.

Under Warner, the Bulldogs ranked No. 79 in total offense prior to Friday’s game. He has thrown 10 touchdown against nine interceptions. Warner also has four fumbles this season.

Fresno State (5-2, 2-1) still has plenty of season left and are one win away from being bowl eligible.

The Bulldogs next games include San Diego State at home then a road game at Boise State, followed by home games against Utah State and Wyoming.

A viewer suggested putting in Carson Conklin.

It would probably be wise for Conklin to get a shot and give the Bulldogs any hope of a spark for the remaining games.

Of course, it’s up to Entz to make that decision.

This story was originally published October 10, 2025 at 10:58 PM.

Anthony Galaviz
The Fresno Bee
Anthony Galaviz writes about sports for The Fresno Bee. He covers the Las Vegas Raiders, high schools, boxing, MMA and junior colleges. He’s been with The Bee since 1997 and attended Fresno City College before graduating from Fresno State with a major in journalism and a minor in criminology. Support my work with a digital subscription
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