Preview: Boise State at #10 Washington

Credit: alirjd via Flickr

The Boise State Broncos start the season with a nonconference trip to Seattle, Washington to take on the University of Washington Huskies.

broadcast information

• Kickoff 3:30 pm Eastern Time on ABC.

• Bob Wischusen and Robert Griffin III on the call.

• Radio: Washington - SportsRadio 950 AM KJR; Boise State - KBOI 670 AM.

What's at Stake?

Washington has playoff ambitions. Boise State hopes to nab the Group of 5 New Year's Six bowl slot. As mentioned in my best-of-week one article earlier this week, both teams are coming off strong 2022 seasons. A win for Boise State at #10 Washington would be a sign that Boise State is back as one of the most feared G5 programs. A win for Washington is expected, but Boise State's brand still has enough cache that it will be a nice feather in their resume to start the season. Most of their Pac-12 opponents are not starting off against an opponent of Boise State's caliber.

Key Players

For Washington, the story of the offseason has been Michael Penix, a Heisman hopeful, and the potent receiving duo of Rome Odunze and Jalen McMillan. Ja'Lynn Polk is no slouch either as the third receiver. Be on the lookout for Washington producing three 1,000-yard receivers in 2023.

For Boise State, it's Taylen Green. The sophomore quarterback burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2022 and helped turn the Broncos season around. I also think running back Ashton Jeanty needs to have a big day if Boise State is going to stay in the game. Like Green, he is a sophomore that was a revelation for the Broncos as a freshman. He is a nice complement to the bell cow, George Holani.

Key Matchups

• The strength of Washington's defense is in the front seven. It should be tested by Boise State's rushing attack, which includes the one-two punch of George Holani and Ashton Jeanty at running back as well as quarterback Taylen Green's ability to take off and run.

• Boise State's secondary against Washington's receivers. It's no secret Washington has one of the best receiving units in the country. Boise State is replacing three key players from last year's secondary, which will face a stiff test against Washington. Returning starters Rodney Robinson (safety) and Markel Reed (corner) will have their hands full getting the new guys up to speed.

Prediction

Washington's offensive firepower proves to be too much for Boise State to handle in a hostile road environment. If Boise State can get its run game going it can shorten the game and limit the damage Washington's passing attack will likely inflict on the Bronco defense. Ultimately, Penix has a big day as he gets his Heisman campaign kicked off. Washington wins 38-24.