Fresno State Welcomes E.J. Warner as Bulldogs Starter
The Fresno State Bulldogs will open the 2025 season on August 23rd with a new leader under center; veteran transfer E.J. Warner has joined the team as their starting quarterback. The son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Kurt Warner, E.J. arrives in Fresno with the experience, poise, and confident leadership skills to elevate the Bulldogs’ offense and help them contend in the Mountain West. Warner spent 2022 and 2023 at Temple University and 2024 at Rice. Known for his accuracy, quick release, and command of the huddle, Warner now has the chance to reshape a Fresno State offense built for quick, high-percentage throws; a style tailor-made for his skill set.
What Warner Brings to Fresno State and Predictions
Warner has faced nationally ranked opponents and hostile road environments, making him well-equipped for Week Zero’s prime time clash at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Warner finished his last season at Rice with 2,710 yards, 17 touchdowns, and a 62% completion rate. Warner’s overall career experience: 32 games played, 8,814 yards gained by passing, 60% passes completed, and 58 passing touchdowns. With Warner under center, Fresno State could prove to be a dangerous challenger to the Jayhawks in their upcoming opening matchup. Warner’s proven durability means the Bulldogs can plan for the long haul without major quarterback depth concerns; his recent 62% at Rice University suggests he can help control the clock, and with a career interception rate of just 2.8%, Warner limits mistakes, which is crucial for the Bulldogs against stronger opponents like the Kansas Jayhawks. If Fresno State wins their opening matchup against Kansas with E.J. Warner’s help, the Bulldogs might just elevate their status and qualify for the big leagues.
Will Warner Keep the Job All Season?
Barring injury or a massive drop-off in performance, it’s hard to imagine Fresno State moving away from Warner after Week Zero. His experience and efficiency make him a stabilizing force for a program breaking in several new offensive starters. Even if the Bulldogs stumble against Kansas, Warner’s ability to execute the game plan and elevate those around him should solidify his role as quarterback for the rest of the year. E.J. Warner isn’t just Fresno State’s newest starter; he might be the piece that helps the Bulldogs punch above their weight in 2025. If Warner delivers in Lawrence with the accuracy and poise that defined his Temple career, Fresno State could find itself in a position to contend in the Mountain West and beyond. Week Zero will be his first test, and the Bulldogs’ hopes may rise and fall on how well he handles it.
