Another Aztecs victory means another chance to highlight some big performances. This week the Sons of Montezuma Warrior Spotlight is set upon WR Jordan Napier, CB Chris Johnson, and Kicker Gabriel Plascencia, after SDSU’s 44-10 victory at Nevada.
First Warrior: Jordan Napier
It was bound to happen. Jordan Napier finally took a punt return back to the house for six in the Aztecs opening score of the game. It was typical for Napier who set the tone for his wide receiver unit this off season when he took his name out of the portal and returned to SDSU.
Napier has set the tone for the unit and he’s set the tone for this road victory over Nevada. And this wasn’t any sort of fluke return. 75 yards in total to pay dirt and Napier became the first Aztec to earn a specialist return since Jordan Byrd took a kickoff back in 2022.
Though there may have been some reservations on how much to utilized Napier’s returning ability seeing that he is such a crucial member of the receiving unit, Saturday night’s opening touchdown revealed just how valuable it is to have him in this role.
If Napier can continue his excellent specialist play he can further help along his NFL draft prospects as a multi-faceted receiver. His fantastic catch & run later in the 1st half also set up the Aztecs third score as well. Napier is rising amongst SDSU legends as a prototypical playmaker and will continue to receive touches as often as Coach Lewis and the team can get him the ball.
Second Warrior: Chris Johnson
Up 2nd on the list is the 2nd scorer of the game, CB Chris Johnson. His pick six return came on the next possession Nevada had after Napier’s punt return. Johnson’s 40 yard touchdown let everyone know just what kind of game this was going to be, again even before CBS Sports could switch over to broadcast the action.
You have to excuse QB Carter Jones for his forgetfulness as a true freshman, but Nevada coach Choate had to be kicking himself Sunday morning if he did not have ‘DON’T THROW AT CHRIS JOHNSON’ written out on the team’s grease board inside the Wolf Pack locker room.
Johnson is exceeding his expectations for this season at the corner position. Three interceptions on the season to lead the team, with two of them being returned for touchdowns doesn’t get much better. In this case once again the defense hand gifted the offense the game with this two lead score.
Furthermore, Johnson’s shut down presence goes beyond just the interceptions. He is deflecting passes, being vocal with his defensive backfield teammates and also stepping up in run support. Let’s just hope more of his exploits moving forward are done on live television where the whole nation can witness his standout play. With Fresno State coming up next, it will be another game full of opportunities for interceptions against a balanced team.
Third Warrior: Gabriel Plascencia
Lastly the 2nd half was the story of kicker Gabriel Plascencia. His three field goals were the only scores for the Aztecs after an incredible 35 point first half. Not ideal for the offense when looking back on the game tape, but absolutely terrific for Plascencia and his red hot season.
Taking advantage of his opportunities and making the most out of them has been the focus for Gabriel. With his 49 yard field goal to put the Aztecs score at 44 up on the board, he officially hit the longest streak of consecutive makes in the nation at 22.
On the year Plascencia is 10 of 10 in field goals and 19 of 19 in extra point scores. Not bad for a kicker who was battling it out last season to get on the field. Plascencia is knocking on the Lou Groza Award’s door and an all out effort to get him that trophy should take place, similar to the hype of specialist punter Matt Araiza.
The left footed kicker who came to SDSU by way of Oakland and San Mateo Junior College, has been a total team player in the locker room and is fully embraced his love for San Diego State community. His interview with the Daily Aztec honoring Hispanic Heritage month can show you some more info and insight of his background and how he got into playing the game of football.
Well there you have it—our three Warriors Spotlight for the weekend. The Aztecs take a week of no game preparation with the bye and next face Fresno State in the Valley on October 25 on FS1. Kickoff time is TBA.
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