SDSU's Crucial Pac-12 Questions
San Diego State Aztecs Must Answer Key Roster Questions Before Inaugural Pac-12 Season Begins
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San Diego State is stepping into its first Pac-12 season with a 9-4 record to build on — and some serious holes to fill. Coach Sean Lewis inherits a roster that lost 31 of 32 sacks from last year's defense, according to Mod Bee.
The Aztecs are joining a rebuilt Pac-12 — now called the Pac-14 — alongside Oregon State, Washington State, Fresno State, Boise State, and others. The season kicks off in August with four non-conference games, including a home opener against Texas State, per SI.
Pass Rush Nearly Wiped Out After Key Departures
The biggest hole on defense is at pass rusher. Trey White was the team's sack machine, racking up 12½ sacks two seasons ago — good enough to tie for fifth in the country. He then left for Texas Tech, reportedly signing for $1.5 million, according to Fresno Bee.
The losses went beyond White. San Diego State shed players who combined for 31 of the team's 32 sacks last year. That leaves just one returner with a sack on his résumé: tackle Amari Cormier. Fellow tackle Malachi Finau and edge rusher Brady Nassar are also back, but the group has a lot to prove, per Sacramento Bee.
Offensive Line Returns Two Starters Amid Uncertainty
The offensive line is another area to watch. Joe Borjon and Kalan Ellis are both returning starters, giving the unit some experience up front. That continuity matters — protecting the quarterback will be key in a tougher conference schedule, according to Mod Bee.
Still, the line as a whole faces questions heading into Pac-12 play. Conference opponents like Boise State and Colorado State bring strong front sevens. Developing depth around Borjon and Ellis will be one of Lewis's most urgent tasks before August, per SI.
Sean Lewis Takes Over a Program at a Crossroads
Coach Sean Lewis is now steering the ship. He takes over a team that went 9-4 last year — a solid foundation, but one built with players who have since moved on. The departures hit the defense especially hard, leaving Lewis to rebuild the pass rush almost from scratch, per Myrtle Beach Online.
Lewis must find answers fast. The Pac-14 schedule includes road tests against Boise State, Colorado State, Utah State, and Idaho. San Diego State's identity has long been built on defense. Replacing the production of 31 sacks in one offseason is a tall order for any coaching staff.
A Tougher Conference Raises the Stakes in 2025
The Pac-12's rebirth adds real pressure. San Diego State is no longer in the Mountain West, where they were a perennial power. The rebuilt Pac-14 brings in proven programs. Oregon State and Washington State both have recent Power Five pedigrees, according to SI.
The Aztecs also face Fresno State, Colorado, and Boise State within the new conference. Each of those games is winnable — but none is a gimme. How San Diego State answers its key questions on defense and up front will decide whether this first Pac-12 season is a step forward or a stumble, per Sacramento Bee.
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