Ashton Jeanty showcased an impressive performance, rushing for 226 yards and scoring a touchdown, as the No. 11 Boise State Broncos secured a 34-18 victory over Oregon State. Maddux Madsen contributed significantly by throwing two touchdowns and adding a rushing touchdown of his own.
Jeanty’s outstanding display solidified his position among the top rushers in FBS history, placing him fifth for the single-season rushing record with a total of 2,578 yards thus far. He remains within striking distance of fourth-place Marcus Allen, who sits just 54 yards ahead, and he trails the all-time record held by Barry Sanders by 340 yards. With at least two games remaining in the season, Jeanty’s pursuit of these milestones has captured the attention of college football fans.
Boise State has maintained its top position among Group of Five conference leaders, which secures them a chance to earn an automatic bid in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. The team’s only loss came in a close matchup against No. 1 Oregon earlier in the season, demonstrating their resilience and competitiveness.
Coach Spencer Danielson expressed confidence in the team’s performance this season. “We’re proud of what we’ve done this season, but we’re not done yet,” he stated. The Broncos are working towards achieving their goal of winning back-to-back Mountain West championships, as they prepare to host either Colorado State or UNLV in the championship game.
On the other hand, Oregon State, concluding its season with a 5-7 record, has faced challenges after a significant player turnover from the previous year. Cornerback Skyler Thomas reflected on the team’s growth, acknowledging their struggles while emphasizing a commitment to future improvement. The Beavers are looking to build a stronger roster as they navigate their way through a transitional period following the dissolution of the Pac-12 Conference.
Despite their defeat, Boise State managed to maintain a strong lead throughout the game, responding effectively to Oregon State’s attempts to close the gap. The Broncos have shown areas that need improvement, particularly in terms of defending against explosive plays, as they will face tougher opponents moving forward.
Looking ahead, Boise State will aim to solidify their championship aspirations in the upcoming Mountain West Conference championship game.
In summary, this article showcases the dual narratives of Boise State’s remarkable season and Oregon State’s transition period, highlighting the potential for continued success for both teams in the future. With Boise State eyeing playoff contention and Oregon State seeking to rebuild, both programs have promising paths ahead.