Bulldog fever has its grip on Fresno

Fresno State football Coach Tim DeRuyter leads the team into Bulldog Stadium hours before taking on Nevada.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Fresno State players take the field in the second half against Nevada on Blackout Night, when Bulldogs players and fans alike wear black.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Fresno State dance team members unfurl an American flag during halftime against Nevada at Bulldog Stadium.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Quarterback Derek Carr cheers after a touchdown drive against Nevada. Carr ranks third in the nation in passing yards this season.  (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Flamboyant fan Johnny Hernandez cheers the Fresno State football team during the Bulldogs’ recent 45-23 rout of Nevada.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

A pizza giveaway inspires cheers among Fresno State fans, including one very young Bulldogs backer.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

A shirtless fan shows off a bulldog tattoo as Fresno State plays Nevada at Bulldog Stadium.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Fresno State quarterback Derek Carr high-fives a fan as he leaves the field at halftime against Nevada.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Quarterback Derek Carr (4) leads a prayer circle at the 50-yard line after Fresno State beat Nevada, 41-23, at Bulldog Stadium.   (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)