Cal Poly’s Grosz going home

Sullivan Grosz earns his first sack of the season on Saturday afternoon. Cal Poly’s defensive front-seven will have to be really good to compete with Fresno State this weekend. By Owen Main

Sullivan Grosz is on his way home. For one week at least.

The San Juaquin Memorial High School prep star is a senior at Cal Poly and headed to his home town to play against the team he grew up rooting for.

“We had season tickets [at Bulldog Stadium] in our special spot,” said Grosz. “I’m just blessed and thankful for the opportunity. I’m so glad that we’re able to play them and they want us to come into their house.”

Grosz and company won’t be going into the game unprepared. Three years ago, the Mustangs played the Bulldogs in Fresno, losing 38 to 17. In that game in 2010, Cal Poly was losing only 21-17 at the half, but was outscored 17-0 in the second half. Grosz was a redshirt freshman at the time, who had been converted from linebacker to defensive tackle.

“We played them 3 years ago and I was a redshirt freshman. It was a little nerve racking that week: I wanted everything to be perfect. But then when you get out on the field it’s kind of funny, I could be here. It’s tunnel vision… . I’m excited for my players, for the opportunity. They’re a great team. I’d love to see what I can do against a pro-style offense.”

This time, Fresno State is the first of two consecutive games against FBS schools and three straight on the road.

Last season, Grosz earned second-team All-Big Sky Conference honors and led the team with six sacks. He got to the San Diego quarterback twice on Saturday and is a third of the way to his 2012 total already.

“Sacks are turning points of games and that’s what we need,” said Grosz. “We need momentum-stoppers for them and we need to start some momentum for us.”

According to Grosz’ father, Stan, the Grosz family expects 150-200 friends and family to tailgate and attend the game. For one day at least, a portion of the Bulldog faithful may be donning the green and gold.

One of them will be on the field — number 94 for Cal Poly.