In a thrilling encounter in Boise, Idaho, Ashton Jeanty showcased his remarkable talent, rushing for 226 yards and scoring a touchdown as No. 11 Boise State triumphed over Oregon State with a score of 34-18. Jeanty’s impressive performance has brought him closer to the all-time single-season rushing records, placing him fifth among FBS leaders. He currently trails record-holder Barry Sanders by 340 yards and has at least two more games to try and break the record.
Boise State’s victory solidifies its position as the top-ranked team among Group of Five conferences, keeping their hopes alive for an automatic bid in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. The Broncos, now with an 11-1 record, remain focused on their aspirations, including the opportunity to win back-to-back Mountain West championships—a feat the team has yet to achieve.
“We’re proud of what we’ve done this season, but we’re not done yet,” Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson expressed, emphasizing the importance of their upcoming challenges. Boise State will face either Colorado State or UNLV in the Mountain West championship game, with an opportunity to secure a place in the playoffs.
Oregon State, finishing the season at 5-7, is looking to rebuild after a challenging year that followed a significant player exodus from the Pac-12. Cornerback Skyler Thomas remarked on the season’s struggles, noting the potential for growth and improvement moving forward.
The game itself started well for Boise State, as they surged to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter. However, they faced adversity when Jeanty fumbled right before scoring a second touchdown, allowing Oregon State to gain momentum and cut the lead. Nonetheless, Boise State rallied in the final moments of the first half and maintained their advantage through to the end.
Looking ahead, Oregon State is in preparations for the future, while Boise State remains a formidable contender preparing for the Mountain West championship. The challenges ahead are significant, but both programs are poised for potential growth.
In summary, as Boise State heads toward a critical championship game, Jeanty’s pursuit of records adds excitement to a season filled with achievements. This pivotal moment not only reflects the team’s hard work but also highlights the future potential for both programs as they adapt and grow from their experiences this year.
There’s hope for Boise State to secure their championship dreams, while Oregon State lays the groundwork for a stronger future, signaling that new beginnings are on the horizon for both teams.