In an impressive performance, Ashton Jeanty rushed for 226 yards and scored a touchdown, leading No. 11 Boise State to a 34-18 victory over Oregon State on Friday. Quarterback Maddux Madsen contributed as well, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for one, helping the Broncos finish the regular season with an 11-1 record.
With this game, Jeanty moved into fifth place among all-time single-season rushing leaders in FBS history, now just 54 yards shy of surpassing Marcus Allen’s fourth-place total. He trails the legendary Barry Sanders, who holds the record with 2,628 yards set in 1988, by 340 yards, with at least two more games left to play.
The win solidifies Boise State’s position as the highest-ranked Group of Five team vying for an automatic bid in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. The Broncos’ only loss this season came against top-ranked Oregon back in September.
Boise State Coach Spencer Danielson remarked on the team’s accomplishments but emphasized the importance of continuing their quest for success, particularly seeking to win back-to-back Mountain West championships. The Broncos’ next challenge will come in the Mountain West championship game, where they will host either Colorado State or UNLV, a match that could determine their playoff fate.
Meanwhile, Oregon State concluded its season with a 5-7 record and faces uncertainty after losing a significant number of players to the transfer portal. Cornerback Skyler Thomas reflected on the season, noting it served as a stepping stone for future growth.
Despite Boise State’s strong season, there is still work to be done, especially on defense, as they aim to improve their performance against explosive plays. As they prepare for a critical championship game, the Broncos are focused on fine-tuning their game to face tougher competition ahead.
In summary, this victory not only highlights Ashton Jeanty’s potential to break records but also sets the stage for Boise State’s aspirations in the playoffs and championship win. As they continue to build momentum, the Broncos are charged with the opportunity to achieve significant milestones in the coming weeks.