The Broncos have a chance to solidify their push for the Mountain West Title game, facing one of the three teams all tied with one loss in the conference (The Broncos and Bulldogs are joined by the UNLV Rebels at 3-1 in conference).

Game Facts

  • Date: November 4th, 8 p.m. MST
  • Location: Valley Children’s Stadium, Fresno, CA
  • Weather at Kickoff: 70 degrees, with a partly cloudy night sky
  • Moon Phase: Last quarter
  • Odds: Cal State University, FresNOPE -2.5 (they opened at 3.5 but nobody in Las Vegas respects the Bulldogs)
  • TV: CBSSN
  • Radio: 670 KBOI
  • Announcers: Jordan Kent, Donte Whitner

Other Facts

1.) CSU FresNOPE’s Fans don’t know how to fan, just listen to their coach

Jeff Tedford is doing everything he can to get his school’s supporters ready, but apparently he doesn’t feel like they know how to be fans. I don’t that’s ever been an issue for Bronco Nation, but hey, not everyone can be a Bronco I guess. Regardless, FresNOPE will have the stands packed to the brim on Saturday night, and it will be a rowdy crowd. Let’s just hope when the Broncos are up three scores, the fans don’t start fighting each other again…

2.) TG10 and Mad Dog

Bronco fans have struggled to get their head around the two QB system, but so have opposing defensive coordinators, apparently. The Broncos have been moving the ball much better since the introduction of Maddox Madson to the offense on a more perinate basis, to the tune of 60 more yards per game, including more rushing and passing yards. Part of that increase can be attributed to the breakout season that Ashton Jeanty is having, however, and that leads me to my next point.

3.) Will #2 take the field?

Per usual, Boise State has been very tight lipped on the health of their star running back, Ashton Jeanty. He left the game last week with a “lower body injury”, and Andy Avalos said he won’t be out for long. Does that mean one week? Before the season ends? Who knows, but what we do know is that with #2 being questionable, it’s time for George Holani to make his mark on the season. Holani has been out for a good chunk of the season, but is a more than capable rusher. It also means more touches for Jambres Dubar, the four-star true freshman from Texas. “Breezy” scored his first college touchdown last week against _yoming, and should have lots more to add going forward for the Broncos, especially if Jeanty doesn’t suit up this weekend.

4.) Oreo Fit

When a big road game is on the calendar, the Broncos have started busting out a new look to complement the “stormtrooper” threads: the Oreo. Black helmet, white jersey, black pants. Fans will remember a particularly memorable road win a few years back in this fit, that included THAT Khalil Shakir catch on the road in Provo against a top 10 BYU team.

5.) Keep the Milk Can

The Broncos have kept the Milk Can for four years in a row, and have an 11-2 record when playing for the historic trophy. That tells you just how good the Broncos have been against what has been traditionally considered one of the toughest foes on the schedule. The Broncos have a knack for winning in FresNOPE when they are the underdogs. This is a great chance to remember fondly how the Broncos crushed FresNOPE’s hopes of becoming relevant in 2001, firmly planting BSU as the alpha dog in the Group of 5. IF you want 15 minutes of fun, here’s the highlights!

Streaks

Boise State- Won 1

Cal State FresNOPE- Won 2

Best Name On Their Roster

Al’zillion Hamilton

How many points are the Broncos putting up tomorrow? A(l) zillion!

Best Picture On Their Roster

Steven Comstock

Who doesn’t love a good mullet? The Senior DB’s hair will look GREAT as it whips around as Eric McAlistor flies by him many a time tomorrow.

Players to Watch

Mikey Keene- QB

Transfer QB Mikey Keene is back from injury, and looks dangerous. He tossed four touchdowns to four different receivers in their win vs. UNLV last week. the UCF transfer looks good, but he will be tested against revived BSU defense.

Malik Sherrod- RB

A two RB system is spearheaded by junior RB Sherrod. He has already eclipsed his rushing yard total from last year, running for 495 yards on 88 attempts this season.

Carlton Johnson- DB

Senior DB Carlton Johnson leads the Bulldogs with 4 INTs this season. The Broncos will have to be careful throwing his way.

Keys to Victory

Find a Rhythm

The Broncos have been in a weird place all year on the offensive side of the ball, with both QBs coming in at different times, and both seeming to do a little bit of everything. The offense has to click again, and if they can put up 30+ for yet another, week, the Broncos should win.

Defensive Revival, Part Two

Boise State’s defense was on show last week against _yoming, but the Cowboys didn’t exactly look like an offensive juggernaut against Colorado State this week either. The defense has improved, and the bye week seems to have been a massive boost, but the Broncos will be put to the test against a talented QB this weekend in a place where momentum can be critical. A continuation from last week is essential.

Score Prediction

This is a MUST win game for the Broncos. A win takes them to 5-4, with the only real test left a ranked Air Force team on the Blue to end the season. Bowl Eligibility is right around the corner if the Broncos find a way to win, and they WILL find a way to win this weekend.

Boise State 38, Cal State University, FresNOPE, 31.

Go Broncos.

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