Tuesday night brought good news for Boise State fans. The College Football Playoff committee released its latest top‑25 rankings, placing the Broncos at No. 25. While the Broncos are still outside the coveted “magic 12,” they hold the highest ranking among the Group of Six schools, giving them a clear path to the postseason if they win every remaining game.
Group of Six Position
The Group of Six consists of the best non‑Power Five teams, and only one slot is available for a playoff berth. Boise State’s No. 25 ranking makes it the leading contender in that group. The Broncos will claim the slot if they finish the season undefeated, regardless of how the other Group of Six teams perform.
Key Competition
Several other Group of Six programs, including James Madison and UNLV, already carry two or three losses, reducing their chances. The most immediate threat comes from New Mexico, now coached by former Boise State assistant Jason Eck. If the Lobos win out while the Broncos stumble, New Mexico could leapfrog Boise State for the playoff spot.
Potential Setbacks
Should Boise State lose a game and New Mexico win its remaining contests, the Lobos would capture the Group of Six berth. That outcome would be especially painful for Idaho supporters, as New Mexico recently left the Mountain West for the Pac‑12, a move that many local fans view as a loss for the region’s traditional football landscape.
Other Pac‑12 Challenges
Within the Pac‑12, the Broncos’ primary on‑field opponent appears to be Oregon State, which analysts consider the only team capable of testing Boise State’s consistency. The rest of the conference is viewed as less competitive this season. Additionally, Texas State remains a wildcard; a win for the Bears could set up a rematch of last week’s dramatic 46‑45 game.
What Lies Ahead
Boise State must continue its winning streak to keep the playoff dream alive. The Broncos not only represent the state of Idaho but also serve as a flagship for the newly restructured Pac‑12, which many believed was struggling after recent realignments. Success on the field would reinforce the conference’s relevance and showcase Idaho’s football tradition on a national stage.
Community Support
Local fans have rallied behind the team, with former quarterback Kellen Moore returning to Boise for a statue dedication that highlighted his contributions to the program. The community’s enthusiasm underscores the broader significance of the Broncos’ playoff push for the region’s pride and identity.
Looking Forward
As the season progresses, Boise State will face a series of must‑win games. Each victory brings the Broncos closer to the historic achievement of joining the College Football Playoff, a milestone that would bring national attention to Idaho’s athletic programs and inspire future generations of student‑athletes.
Original reporting: 580 KIDO Talk Radio (Boise) — read the source article.
