In a thrilling game in Boise, Idaho, Ashton Jeanty showcased his remarkable talent, rushing for 226 yards and securing a touchdown, leading No. 11 Boise State to a 34-18 victory over Oregon State. Jeanty’s impressive performance places him fifth on the list of FBS all-time single-season rushing leaders, just 54 yards shy of Marcus Allen’s fourth-place spot and 340 yards behind record-holder Barry Sanders, who set the benchmark with 2,628 yards in 1988. With at least two games left this season, Jeanty has a realistic opportunity to further etch his name in college football history.
Accompanying Jeanty’s efforts, quarterback Maddux Madsen contributed significantly with two passing touchdowns and one touchdown on the ground, helping Boise State improve to an 11-1 record. As the top-ranked Group of Five team, the Broncos are well-positioned to secure an automatic bid in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. Coach Spencer Danielson expressed pride in the team’s achievements but emphasized the importance of focusing on the upcoming challenges, particularly the Mountain West championship game against either Colorado State or UNLV.
Despite the loss, Oregon State’s season serves as a foundation for rebuilding after a tumultuous year marked by a substantial turnover due to player transfers. Cornerback Skyler Thomas highlighted the season’s struggles but remained optimistic about the team’s future.
Boise State started strong, establishing a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. However, a pivotal moment came when Jeanty fumbled near the end zone, allowing Oregon State to recover. This setback did not deter the Broncos, who quickly responded with a scoring drive to maintain control of the game.
While Boise State’s offense shined, their defense showed vulnerabilities, particularly in giving up explosive plays. Addressing these concerns will be critical as they prepare for tougher competition in the upcoming weeks.
The future looks promising for Boise State as they aim for their first back-to-back Mountain West championships, while Oregon State looks to regroup and build for the next season. This recent game highlights not only the individual talent on display but also the potential for both teams to grow and succeed in the coming seasons.
The excitement continues as Boise State gears up for the Mountain West championship game, with fans eagerly anticipating how Jeanty and his teammates will perform on this significant stage.