Boise State Football Faces Challenges in 2025 Season

Boise State University’s football team has encountered significant challenges early in the 2025 season, starting with a 34-7 loss to the University of South Florida (USF), which is now ranked No. 18 in The Associated Press Top 25. This defeat has placed the Broncos in a difficult position as they aim for a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Unlike the previous year, where Boise State had a promising start, the absence of standout running back Ashton Jeanty has left the team struggling to maintain momentum. Following the loss to USF, the Broncos managed a convincing 51-14 victory over Eastern Washington, but this win against an FCS opponent does little to enhance their playoff prospects.

Idaho StatesmanMountain West football rankings: Hawaii, Wyoming look good while CSU sinks to basementNewsweek

The Mountain West Conference (MWC) is shaping up to be competitive, with UNLV emerging as a significant challenger under new head coach Dan Mullen. UNLV has started the season strong, boasting a 3-0 record, including a notable upset against UCLA. In contrast, Boise State's path to the MWC title appears more complicated, as they must contend with UNLV and other teams like Air Force and Wyoming, who have also shown promise early in the season.

Idaho Statesman

The Group of Five conferences, which include the Mountain West, American Athletic Conference (AAC), and others, are vying for a single playoff spot in the expanded 12-team CFP. USF's strong performance, including victories over Boise State and Florida, positions them as a frontrunner for this coveted spot. The competition is further intensified by other AAC teams like Tulane and Memphis, both of whom have started their seasons undefeated. The outcome of these inter-conference matchups will be crucial in determining which team secures the Group of Five playoff berth.

Idaho Statesman

Boise State's coaching staff has acknowledged the uphill battle they face this season. The team is focusing on improving their performance in upcoming games, particularly as they prepare for a challenging matchup against Notre Dame in early October. The coaching staff emphasized the need for consistent execution and resilience to overcome the early setbacks.

Idaho Statesman

Critics have pointed out that Boise State's early loss to USF raises questions about their ability to compete at a high level this season. Analysts have expressed concerns regarding the team's depth and overall performance, especially in the absence of key players like Jeanty. Furthermore, the lack of a strong showing against ranked opponents could hinder their chances of making a significant impact in the CFP discussions.

Newsweek

Looking ahead, Boise State will need to capitalize on their remaining games to regain their footing in the playoff race. With a bye week to regroup, the Broncos must focus on their upcoming conference matchups, particularly against UNLV and Air Force, which will be pivotal in determining their standing in the MWC.

Idaho Statesman

• “We’ve invested more in our football program over the last three years than in the previous 20-25. We’ve gone all-in,” — Will Weatherford, Chair of the Board of Trustees, USF

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