Boise State capitalize on Utah State goofs to win in Logan

[Editor’s note: Apparently Damien forgot to hit the ‘publish’ button on Saturday. Whoops.]

The Broncos have been somewhat ‘snake-bit’ in the ‘Middle 8’ of some crucial games. It was very important for Boise State to manage this quick-striking Aggies squad and minimize their impact.

Spoiler alert: the Broncos succeeded.

Boise State QB Hank Bachmeier had a decent day dang near leading the Boise State rushing effort with 44 yards on seven carries. He did manage the game decently well going 22/39 for 287 yards and one TD and an INT. He did have some pressure issues but got rid of the ball in important spots and took sacks where it was “ok” to do so.

Khalil Shakir continues to show why he is, very arguably, either the greatest receiver the Broncos ever had OR the greatest player. Mr. Shakir had seven catches with 113 yards and a TD. Add six carries and 16 yards to his all-around total and you’ve got quite the game. He will be so fun to watch on the next level.

One unexpected touchdown did come from my guy, Homedale, Idaho native, Scott Matlock on a beautiful throw from Bachmeier. And it was glorious.

The offense line... still needs work. The snap issues are making things difficult and could be part of the rushing woes. Maybe we will see Kekaniokoa Holomalia-Gonzalez some time this year? Maybe next week? Please?

The Boise State defense continues to be ball hawks with two interceptions (one from Tyreque Jones and another from Tyric LeBeauf). Add another fumble recovery by Demetri Washington the Broncos are light-years ahead in terms of takeaways from last year.

Utah State, usually, has an explosive offense and took advantage with some explosive plays. The defense did the whole ‘bend don’t break’ thing to perfection, though, with only allowing three points. Utah State was coming into the game averaging 41 points a game. That’s substantial.

J.L. Skinner. That’s it. That’s the sentence.

Well, kind of. No writing here can really encompass how much of a MAN he is but, boy howdy, I’m going to try. My man had 13 total tackles (which lead both both teams) 11 solo. He also had one pass break up and almost killed a man on several occasions. He is leaving after this year, folks, so enjoy watching a Bronco great just continue to warm your hearts.

Who knows if we are ‘over the hump’ regarding the ‘Middle 8’ (hereafter known as the ‘segment of time we don’t talk about’). But going into Logan, Utah with these issues and walking away with a 20+ win is great.

The Broncos next face UNR on October 2nd at 1:30 pm at Albertson’s Stadium.