Ashton Jeanty had an impressive performance, rushing for 226 yards and scoring a touchdown, contributing significantly to Boise State’s 34-18 victory over Oregon State. Maddux Madsen also stood out, throwing for two touchdowns and adding another with his feet. This win solidified Boise State’s position as the No. 11 team in the country and the top-ranked representative among Group of Five teams seeking a spot in the upcoming 12-team College Football Playoff.
Jeanty’s performance not only propelled his team to victory but also positioned him among the greats of college football. He currently sits fifth in the FBS single-season rushing leaderboard, only 54 yards shy of surpassing Marcus Allen for fourth place. Notably, Jeanty is aiming to close the gap on Barry Sanders’ record of 2,628 yards set in 1988, needing 340 additional yards with at least two games remaining.
The Broncos are eager to add a Mountain West Championship title to their impressive season. Coach Spencer Danielson expressed confidence in the team’s progress while emphasizing their goal of winning back-to-back championships, a feat they have yet to accomplish. Boise State will face either Colorado State or UNLV in the Mountain West championship game next Friday, with a playoff berth at stake.
On the other hand, Oregon State wraps up its season with a record of 5-7, missing out on a bowl game after a challenging year marked by significant roster changes following the departure of numerous players from the Pac-12. However, cornerback Skyler Thomas views the season as a learning opportunity and is determined to return for the next one.
The game saw Boise State jump to an early lead but faced challenges, including a fumble by Jeanty near the end zone. Despite this, they managed to extend their lead before halftime. Oregon State attempted a comeback by reducing the score to 27-18 early in the fourth quarter, but the Broncos held their ground, showcasing the resilience of their offense.
As Boise State looks ahead to the championship and the playoffs, they recognize the need to tighten their defense, as they have shown vulnerability to explosive plays throughout the season. Nonetheless, with their strong offense led by Jeanty, the team remains optimistic about their chances.
In summary, this game not only highlighted individual accomplishments like Jeanty’s climb in rushing records but also set the stage for future opportunities as Boise State aims for continued success in the playoffs and the Mountain West Championship. This positivity serves as a reminder of the potential for growth and achievement, both for the team and individual players, in the upcoming fixtures.