The Bulldogs will kick off their 2017 football season in a special way—by welcoming home former Fresno State quarterback Derek Carr.
The university will retire his No. 4 jersey during a halftime ceremony at the September 2 home opener at Bulldog Stadium. His will be only the seventh retired jersey in the 95-year history of the program.
Carr is the Bulldogs’ all-time leading passer. He played for Fresno State from 2009-2013. He’s now entering his fourth season with the Oakland Raiders.
“I am deeply honored that my alma mater, Fresno State, will be retiring my No. 4 jersey,” Carr said. “It is very humbling and exciting for me as it has been a childhood dream.”
He also shared his excitement in a video posted on Instagram:
Carr led the Bulldogs to back-to-back Mountain West championships in his final two seasons. His senior year, Fresno State went 11-2 and was ranked as high as No. 13 in the national rankings.
During his time as a Bulldog, Carr set 27 new school records and was a two-time All-American.
This isn’t the first Carr jersey to be retired by Fresno State. Brother David Carr also had his No. 8 jersey retired. The older Carr played quarterback at Fresno State from 1997-2001.
“Having the honor of retiring a second Carr jersey in Bulldog Stadium is a momentous event and one that Fresno State and our fans will always cherish,” said Fresno State Athletics Director Jim Bartko. “We are so very appreciative of what Derek and his family continue to do in support of our community.”
Other Fresno State football players who have had their numbers retired include Trent Dilfer (quarterback), Henry Ellard (wide receiver), Dale Messer (running back), Vince Petrucci (kicker) and Kevin Sweeney (quarterback).
Valley Children’s Healthcare is serving as the halftime sponsor for the September 2 game. They are providing a limited-edition commemorative Derek Carr No. 4 t-shirt to every fan in attendance.
Tickets are on sale now. There’s a single-game flash sale happening in honor of Carr. You can buy four tickets for $44 in section 4 for a limited time.
Season tickets start at $99. There are four- and three-game mini plans on sale, too. Learn more at GoBulldogs.com.
For more information on the upcoming season, including details on new head coach Jeff Tedford, check out my July 31st post here.
Go Dogs!
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