It is typical for writers at the San Diego Union Tribune, Mountain West Connection, and the Daily Aztec to have somewhat inflated expectations for San Diego State football. These eternal optimists often attempt to offset dismal reviews provided by the major sports columnists and reporters who frequently forecast crash-and-burn scenarios for Mountain West teams, with the notable exception of Boise State.
When Sports Illustrated shares the optimism of die-hard Aztec supporters, and proposes the possibility for San Diego State to make a bid for a New Years Six bowl, it's an indicator that the tide of sentiment is changing.