In a thrilling matchup, Ashton Jeanty showcased his exceptional talent by rushing for 226 yards and scoring a touchdown, contributing significantly to No. 11 Boise State’s 34-18 victory over Oregon State on Friday. Quarterback Maddux Madsen also had an impressive game, throwing two touchdown passes and adding another with his legs.
Jeanty’s standout performance has propelled him into fifth place among the all-time single-season rushing leaders in FBS history, just 54 yards shy of fourth place held by Marcus Allen. The distance from the all-time record set by Barry Sanders in 1988 is now 340 yards, and with at least two more games left in the season, Jeanty has a tangible chance to break further records.
For Boise State, which holds an 11-1 record, the victory reinforces their position as the leading conference contender among the Group of Five teams for the newly established 12-team College Football Playoff. The team’s only loss came in September against the current top team, Oregon.
Coach Spencer Danielson emphasized the team’s progress this season, stating, “We’re proud of what we’ve done this season, but we’re not done yet.” As they look forward to their Mountain West championship game, the Broncos aim to achieve back-to-back titles—a feat they have yet to accomplish.
Oregon State’s season concluded with a disappointing record of 5-7, and they face uncertainties as they navigate a transition after significant losses to their roster. However, cornerback Skyler Thomas expressed optimism about the future, viewing the current challenges as stepping stones for improvement.
Overall, the game saw Boise State build an early 14-0 lead and, despite a brief surge from Oregon State, they maintained control and solidified their dominance as the match unfolded. Jeanty’s notable contributions, along with a strong performance from Madsen, suggest a bright future for Boise State as they prepare for critical upcoming games.
As the Broncos prepare for the Mountain West championship, they have the opportunity to not only secure a title but also to enhance their playoff chances—a promising prospect for fans and the team alike.