Boise State vs. SDSU: Five Key Factors in the Aztecs’ Challenge Against No. 15 Broncos

Boise State vs. SDSU Five Key Factors in the Aztecs’ Challenge Against No. 15 Broncos

Boise State vs. SDSU: Five Key Factors in the Aztecs’ Challenge Against No. 15 Broncos

As the San Diego State Aztecs prepare to take on the formidable No. 15 Boise State Broncos, tonight’s game is shaping up to be a significant matchup in the Mountain West. Boise State, currently 6-1 with only a close loss to top-ranked Oregon, holds a perfect conference record and aims to secure a place in the newly expanded College Football Playoff. For the Aztecs, with a 3-4 record but unbeaten in conference play, this is an opportunity to pull off a major upset and strengthen their standing. Here’s what to watch for in this high-stakes game.

First up is the battle over time of possession, a crucial factor in tonight’s game. The Aztecs struggle in this area, ranking 123rd out of 134 FBS teams in possession time. Boise State, on the other hand, sits in the middle at 52nd, averaging just over 30 minutes. Yet, Boise has been incredibly effective with the ball, ranking third nationally in scoring with an impressive 44.3 points per game. If SDSU wants to have any chance against Boise’s powerful offense, they’ll need to extend their own drives and prevent Boise from controlling the clock. The Aztecs’ defense has been steady, holding opponents to 23.6 points per game. This consistency could provide them the edge they need—if the offense manages to keep their defense off the field.

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A significant player to watch is Boise’s junior running back Ashton Jeanty, who ran for 205 yards against SDSU last year and has since improved. Averaging nearly 197 yards per game, Jeanty’s a powerful and speedy player who poses a major threat. SDSU’s defense will need to gang-tackle and focus their energy on containing him. Although he suffered a minor arm injury in the last game, Jeanty returned to play, proving his resilience.

The Aztecs face an added challenge with their offensive line, which has been hit hard by injuries, including the loss of both left tackle and left guard for the season. The availability of key players like right guard Tyler McMahon and right tackle Nate Williams is still uncertain, which could impact their performance in tonight’s high-pressure game. If they’re sidelined, SDSU will need to rely on less experienced players, making it harder to maintain offensive stability.

On defense, both teams have been strong at applying pressure. SDSU’s edge rusher Trey White leads the nation with 11.5 sacks, and Boise State will be prepared to counter him. But Boise State also boasts a robust defensive line, leading the nation with 35 sacks. This pass-rushing ability could be a deciding factor, as both teams look to disrupt their opponent’s quarterback.

Finally, turnovers could be the ultimate deciding factor in this game. Both Boise State and SDSU have excelled at “valuing the football” this season, keeping turnovers to a minimum. Boise State has only four turnovers, ranking second in the country, while SDSU has five, ranking sixth. However, SDSU’s defense has been more effective at generating turnovers, which could give them a slight edge if the game remains close.

As these two teams clash, the outcome could pivot on each of these factors. For Boise State, it’s about proving their playoff potential and extending their winning streak. For SDSU, it’s a chance to knock down a top team and make a statement. Fans can expect a thrilling showdown under the Friday night lights at Albertsons Stadium.

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