Jalen Mayden Will Start For San Diego State Against Nevada, Braxton Burmeister Moved To Wide Receiver
Interesting move for San Diego State
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Aztecs confirmed the changes on offense
San Diego State announced that Jalen Mayden will be the starting quarterback for this week’s game against Nevada. Braxton Burmeister will now become a wide receiver and will be the team’s backup quarterback.
This was a direct move that signaled a need for a change in the offense. The Aztecs were looking for a consistent option at quarterback. Mayden started the last game against Hawaii and had an impressive showing. In the 16-14 win, Mayden threw for 322 yards and one touchdown. He completed 66% of his passes.
Last season, Mayden played some snaps as a quarterback. However, he was not viewed as a viable option. For this season, San Diego State switched Mayden from quarterback to safety. He began the season as a safety and eventually jumped back to the offense after the Boise State loss.
With Mayden being the starter for this week’s game, Burmeister will likely not start another game this season. He could see time as a backup, but he will mostly play as a wide receiver.
This move was the latest part of a midseason overhaul on offense. San Diego State parted ways with Jeff Hecklinski after the loss to Boise State. San Diego State head coach Brady Hoke hoped to spark momentum with Mayden as the quarterback. It worked against Hawaii and he could have another successful start against Nevada.
For Burmeister, his first season at San Diego State has been filled with several unforeseen circumstances. He transferred from Virginia Tech in the offseason and won the starting job. He was expected to help the Aztecs return to the Mountain West Championship Game, but the season took an unexpected turn for Burmeister. Between injuries and underwhelming performances, San Diego State decided to move in a different direction at quarterback.
Burmeister will be used as an insurance plan, in case Mayden is unable to play at any point. San Diego State dealt with several injuries and a transfer in the quarterback room and Mayden was the last resort. As it turned out, Mayden proved that he could lead the offense.
Hoke needed to make a change to get off the hot seat. If this move does not work out, Hoke’s job could be in jeopardy.
