Boise State cemented its place among the nation’s elite this weekend with a commanding 32-7 win over Western Michigan in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The victory not only marked the Broncos’ largest margin of victory this season but also strengthened their argument for a College Football Playoff (CFP) berth.
Offensive firepower on full display
Junior running back Dylan Riley led the ground game with 138 rushing yards and a touchdown, despite missing his usual partner, Sire Gaines, who was sidelined with a wrist injury. Backups Harry Stewart III and Juelz Goff added seven carries for 11 yards, providing depth for the Broncos.
Fifth‑year senior quarterback Maddux Madsen contributed both through the air and on the ground. He threw for 204 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing four times for 29 yards. Madsen’s 70% completion rate highlighted his efficiency against a tough non‑conference opponent.
Junior tight end Matt Wagner emerged as the top receiver, hauling in seven catches for 94 yards and two touchdowns – both career highs. Wagner said, “Being able to just do my job at the best level possible is always a blessing. No matter the play, I have confidence and pride in what I do for the team.” Sixth‑year senior Ben Ford recorded his first touchdown since returning from an ACL tear, catching a six‑yard pass.
Defense nearly shuts out the Broncos
Boise State’s defense delivered its best performance of the 2026 season, holding Western Michigan scoreless for 59 minutes. The Broncos allowed a single touchdown only after rotating in second‑string players late in the game.
Key defensive moments included a 0‑for‑3 record on fourth‑down conversions and a 2‑for‑11 showing on third down for the Broncos. Senior defensive lineman Mikaio Edward praised the effort, stating, “It felt awesome, for real. This was a big game, definitely a game that was circled on our schedule all year.” Junior defensive back Roman Tillmon secured his first interception for Boise State, marking the first pick by a Bronco not named Travis Anderson.
What the win means for Boise State’s season
Head coach Spencer Danielson highlighted the significance of the victory, noting the Broncos’ tough non‑conference schedule – 3‑1 after beating Western Michigan and a quality win over Memphis. He added, “We knew going into this season that this four‑game non‑conference would be tough, it would challenge us, and we wanted that. In the Pac‑12, every week we’ll face talented, well‑funded programs, and we must continue to grow.”
The Broncos now look ahead to their inaugural Pac‑12 slate, opening at home against Utah State. A win there, followed by victories in the remaining seven conference games, would position Boise State at 11‑1 and likely secure a conference championship appearance.
Looking ahead
With the AP Poll due soon, Danielson expressed confidence that Boise State deserves a top‑25 ranking. “Anything less than a No. 25 next to Boise State Broncos after Sunday would be shocking,” he said.
Boise State’s balanced attack, resilient defense, and strong coaching staff suggest the Broncos are poised to remain a serious contender for the CFP as the season progresses.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.
