Three stars and one goat of Boise State's win over Air Force

Bronco Stadium's first ever military academy showdown turned out to be quite the event on Saturday afternoon. Offense was a plenty for both teams, as well as some impressive defensive efforts. The boys in blue (pants - thanks MWC) came away with the W once again as they cruised to a 37-26 victory against the Air Force Falcons. Join me now after the jump as we discuss the stars, and the goat of Boise State's win over Air Force.

Saturday afternoon brought a record breaking crowd of 34,196 to Bronco Stadium. I have said for several months now that I believed the game against Air Force would be a lot closer, and a lot tougher than what many believed. So yeah, told ya so. But in all seriousness, the Falcons turned this into a great game and proved to be worth competitors. There were sloppy moments on both sides of the ball, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed this game. Join me now as I jump into my stars and my goat.

Star No. 3: Doug Martin, Senior RB

Doug Martin is a beast. That's really about all there is to say. But since Kevan requires me to have a higher word count, I will elaborate. Doug Martin is kind of like the Kellen Moore of running backs. In fact, I know that Kellen Moore is the captain of the ship, err - well, technically Pete is the captain, but Kellen is the captain when he's on the field; and I would go as far to say that Doug plays as vital a role as Kellen does. Of course they both do it in different ways - in fact they are about as opposite as two individuals could be. But just when this offense needs a spark, Doug breaks off for a big run, or snags a touchdown catch that was thrown behind him and in the opposite direction of where he was running. That's just how the Hamster rolls. Doug ended the night at 125 yards on 21 carries. He had one receiving touchdown. I never cease to be impressed by Doug's ability to gain yards after contact, and after the catch. Just like Kellen reads the defense, Doug does as well. He is able to see the gaps and holes that few others can. Because of this, and his incredible level of awesomeness, Doug has earned himself the award of Star No. 3 of Boise State's win over Air Force.

Runner Up for Star No. 3: Me - doing "the Dougie" while they played "Teach Me How to Dougie" over the loud speakers. It was impressive - just ask the North Endzone.

Star No. 2: Defense (specifically the defensive line)

I will be the first to admit that I have not given the defense enough credit this year. I will also be the first to admit that I have a new man crush on Bryan Douglas after his forced fumble. Just sayin'. But seriously, the defense was fantastic on Saturday afternoon. If you just look at the numbers, you're going to call me a liar. Numbers that might lead you to believe I don't know what I'm talking about: Air Force scored 26 points, Air Force had 408 yards of offense, Air force was 4 of 5 on fourth down conversions, Air Force had 264 yards of offense on the ground. Because of these numbers, and probably some others that you internet guru's could find, you may be inclined to think my bloggin passwords be deleted. However, I motion to veto your motion to delete my passwords. What I'm looking at, is how much worse off we would have been had the defense truly not shown up. Time Jefferson, the Falcons quadruple (his fourth threat is staring you down) quarterback was sacked twice, and hurried countless more. The Boise State defense line was pushing their way over the line of scrimmage time and time again. Billy Winn, Ricky "try and spell my last name right the first time" Tjong-A-Tjoe, and Shea McClellin wreaked havoc the entire afternoon. Did I smell Nevada 2010 version 2.0 a few times? Yep, sure did. Seemed like the option was difficult to defend, but I believe our defense truly saved the game for us on multiple ocassions. Did they slip up a few times? Yep, sure did. But when it comes down to not looking at the numbers, and instead looking at the tough, physical, hard-nosed football they played, I truly believe they earned their stars. Congratulations defense, on being Star No. 2 of Boise State's win over Air Force.

Runner Up for Star No. 2: Blake Renaud LIGHTING up the Air Force kick returner on BSU's first kickoff of the game. That. Was. Sick.

Star No. 1: Kellen Moore, Senior QB

Well, well, well, Colt McCoy...can you feel the Pocahontas-like almost unnoticeable footsteps of Senor' Moore knocking on your door? Kellen Moore tied Colt McCoy for the all time winningest (and yes that is a word contrary to what my wife says) quarterback in collegiate football history. And next week, no jinx intended, Kellen will surpass him and etch his name ever so gracefully into the record books forever. Hopefully. Kellen ended the game with 281 yards, going 23 for 29 with three touchdowns and one quote-unquote "interception" (p.s. that was a load of crap). Kellen did what Kellen does best and led the Broncos to another solid victory against a very formidable opponent. Let us raise our glasses once again (mine is full of Sprite) to Kellen Moore, our fearless leader, and Star No. 1 of Boise State's win over Air Force.

Runner Up for Star No. 1: The 4 fighter jets that flew over Bronco Stadium after the national anthem. I literally had chills for about 30 seconds straight. That was truly and utterly amazing and I feel absolutely privileged to have been able to witness it in person.

The Goat: Powerade?

So I've always been a big fan of Gatorade. Never really been partial to Powerade - but to each his own, right? Well, apparently Boise State is partial to Powerade. And apparently Powerade makes you more likely to cramp up. I'm going to be honest, I had a hard time really coming up with a good goat. There was no glaring flaw, play, player, or incident that took the cake for me. But i'll tell you what, the constant cramping and game stoppage was quite aggravating. 

I'm kind of nit-picking here, but all in all, I truly think we were having an issue with hydration on Saturday. I don't know if the viewers could tell at home, but there were probably a dozen instances of players cramping and needing help to the sidelines. It was a very hot day for late October - so hot so in fact, that I am burned all over my face and have sunglass lines like hardcore skiiers do in the winter. Pete - maybe it's time to upgrade and jump on the Gatorade bandwagon? Regardless of the choice of hydration, I think it goes without saying that proper hydration is absolutely critical and has to be a top priority and concern for taking care of out players.

Your Turn:

Who were your stars and who was your goat? Did anyone have a glaring goat that I didn't see? Anyone else get chills for more than 30 seconds during the awesome fighter jet flights? Sound off, Bronco Nation!