The Utah State Aggies are gearing up for a critical matchup against the Boise State Broncos on Friday at Maverik Stadium, with kickoff set for 2:00 p.m. MDT. The game holds significant importance for both teams, as the Aggies seek to cap off the season strong, while the Broncos aim for an opportunity at the Mountain West title game.
Utah State, boasting a record of 6-5 overall and 4-3 in conference play, looks to maintain its perfect home record this season. The Aggies have shown resilience, recently ending their road win drought. They will be eagerly trying to become undefeated at home for the first time since 2018. This season, the Aggies have excelled defensively, impressively shutting out Fresno State in the second half of last week’s game, showcasing an improved defensive performance over recent weeks. However, the offensive side has faced challenges, particularly with the offensive line, which has allowed quarterback Bryson Barnes to be sacked a staggering 35 times this season. Despite these hurdles, Barnes’s ability to adapt could prove vital in the season’s final game.
On the other side, Boise State enters the game with a 7-4 record and 5-2 in the conference, needing a win to secure a chance at the Mountain West title game. The pressure is on the Broncos, as a loss would eliminate them from contention, while a victory would significantly bolster their chances. Backup quarterback Max Cutforth will start for Boise State after regular starter Maddux Madsen suffered an injury on November 1. Though Cutforth struggled initially, he has shown improvement in recent games, particularly in efficiency. The Broncos will rely heavily on their robust running back trio of Dylan Riley, Sire Gaines, and Malik Sherrod, who have collectively scored 20 touchdowns this season.
Both teams are aware of the stakes, with Utah State having lost nine consecutive games to Boise State, with their last victory coming in 2015. This rivalry adds extra motivation for the Aggies as they hope to turn the tide at home. Likewise, Boise State’s defense has been formidable, matching the top of the Mountain West with 14 interceptions this season, but they have also struggled with fumbles, which may provide an opportunity for turnover advantages for Utah State.
In comments leading up to the game, both teams’ coaches praised the other’s strengths. Utah State’s Bronco Mendenhall emphasized the physicality and explosive nature of Boise State’s run game, while Boise’s Spencer Danielson highlighted Bryson Barnes’s competitiveness and skill as crucial to the Aggies’ offensive success.
As both teams prepare for this decisive clash, fans and players alike are anticipating a thrilling showdown that could determine their paths moving into postseason play.