WHAT TO WATCH

• The pass rush has sparked the Spartans to wins in each of the past two Saturdays. They racked up a combined 17 sacks in the two games, including nine in last Saturday’s 28-16 victory over Colorado State. For the season, linemen Viliami Fehoko (7) and Cade Hall (6.5) lead San Jose State in sacks. Against the Rams, linebacker Alii Matau had a game-high three sacks.

• The Spartans will be trying to get to quarterback Jalen Mayden, who’s quite a story. The transfer from Mississippi State began the season as a safety and special-teams player. After five games, he became the starting QB. The Aztecs are 3-1 with him as the starter. He has thrown for 985 yards and five touchdowns with three interceptions. He also has run for 110 yards and three scores.

• SJSU wide receiver Elijah Cooks has become the favorite target of Chevan Cordeiro. Cooks had six receptions for 80 yards and a TD against Colorado State. For the season, he leads the Spartans with 43 catches for 701 yards. The yardage total ranks second in the MWC.