Boise State checks in at #58 in the latest Learfield Sports Director's Cup

For those that have been following along, I have periodically put out the Learfield Sports Director's Cup Standings. Basically the Cup standings awards points to schools based on their performances in the post-season (NCAA tournaments). The Cup releases updates in the fall, winter, and spring. The new Learfield Sports Director's Cup point standings are out.

So where does Boise State stand?

Back in January, Boise State was ranked 32/33 in the fall finals. Since then, there have been two updates for the winter sports. The most up to date point standings are here.

Looks like Boise State has taken a bit of a tumble from the 32/33 and have fallen behind #42 Air Force and #57 New Mexico to end up #58 (tied with Baylor).

Two of the glaring goose eggs are from the men's and women's basketball. If you recall, the women went to the WNCAAs with the Mountain West Conference automatic bid. The men got a bid to the NCAAs as well with an at-large. Those appearances last year gave Boise State 35 points for the women's appearance and five points for the men's (remember: the men's was "just" the first four).

Interestingly enough when you look at year over year Boise State is ahead of where they were last year at the same time (Winter #3) when they clocked in at #73.

So what has been the difference maker? Check out the Fall finals from 2015 and compare to this year 2016. Men's cross country this year really gave the Broncos a boost. That gave the 58.5 points to their total. That more than made up for the football team having to "settle" for a normal bowl game in instead of a NY6 win.

The women's cross country? Well they remained solid, and the schools biggest point earners two years running with 66 in both years.

For Boise State to be seriously considered for a Power 5 conference slot, all aspects of the school needs to be successful. Not just on the football field, but on the track, on the tennis court, on the basketball court, on the gymnastics mat. And, of course, the academics wouldn't hurt either.

As we get more updates, we'll be able to check in and see if the Broncos can make up some more ground with gymnastics, outdoor track & field, golf and softball

Your Turn

If you are any sort of competitive, you want to see all of the Boise State athletes compete and do well. The Broncos may be able to get even further up this ranking!