Boise State University’s football program kicked off its inaugural Pac-12 season with a convincing 37-18 victory over Utah State on CBS Sports Network. Despite the modest national exposure, the Broncos displayed a balanced attack, scoring on three of their first four drives and limiting the Aggies to just two touchdowns.
Key takeaways from the Broncos’ opening win
The win moved Boise State from No. 22 to No. 23 in the latest Associated Press poll, a slight drop that reflects the broader competitiveness of the early‑season rankings rather than any performance issue. Quarterback Jordan Miller threw for 245 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Tyler Hawkins added 112 rushing yards and a score.
Defensively, the Broncos forced three turnovers, including a crucial interception in the fourth quarter that helped seal the game. Head coach Chris Petersen praised his team’s preparation, noting that “the players showed the discipline and focus we expect at this level of competition.”
Other Pac‑12 action this week
San Diego State faced a unique challenge, battling a mumps outbreak that sidelined 14 players. Despite the adversity, the Aztecs rallied late on the CW Network to edge Texas State 31-29 in a dramatic finish. The victory highlighted the depth of the Aztecs’ roster and the coaching staff’s ability to adapt under pressure.
In Pullman, Washington State suffered a 26-6 defeat at the hands of Fresno State, a result that raises questions about the Cougars’ defensive readiness. Fresno’s defense sacked the Cougar quarterback four times and shut down the running game, showcasing a physical style that could prove effective in upcoming conference matchups.
Oregon State, under new head coach JaMarcus Shephard, continued its upward trajectory with a 56-26 win over Colorado State in Fort Collins. Shephard’s emphasis on early‑morning workouts and meticulous preparation has been noted by local media, and the Beavers appear to be translating that discipline into on‑field success.
Coaching moves and controversies
Colorado State’s program saw a shake‑up as Jim Mora Jr., a respected coach with deep football lineage, made headlines for dismissing his defensive coordinator after the first offensive drive against Oregon State. Mora, who was hired from UConn earlier this year, is known for demanding accountability and has a reputation for not “suffering fools lightly.”
Looking ahead
The Broncos will travel to Fresno next Saturday, returning to a hostile environment after a strong start to the season. While Boise State has yet to face a top‑ten opponent, the team’s early performance suggests it could be a contender for a Pac‑12 bowl berth.
Fans are encouraged to follow the Broncos’ progress through local broadcasts and the university’s official channels. As the season unfolds, the Broncos’ blend of solid offense, disciplined defense, and strong coaching will be key factors in determining whether they can sustain their early success.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.
