Posts tagged Top 25

Now I am not a believer in looking ahead, but as the Broncos look to take the next step in their evolution, wins by Oregon and Fresno State could be critical this week. Oregon, Boise States third opponent of the season, travels to Big Ten Country to take on the Purdue Boilermakers. I am not saying this game will be an upset, but an Oregon loss would surely drop them from the Top 25 (currently #14). As every Bronco Fan knows, Boise State has never beaten a BCS team on the road, let alone a ranked BCS team. A win this week by Boise State and a win over a highly ranked BCS team on the road would be a gigantic step forward. I dare say a bigger win then beating Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl.

Fresno State, ranked #21, take on #10 Wisconsin in front of a sold out crowd in what could be the biggest game Fresno State has had in quite some time. Fresno State, led by Ryan Mathews’ 26 carries for 163 and 3 scores, dismantled BCS opponent Rutgers to open the season. The Bulldogs have been waiting a while for this return game and turned down millions to keep this a home game.  Check out the Collegian’s RedWave Podcast for a preview.  Also keep in mind Fresno State and Boise State would need to keep winning so the November match-up is meaningful.

So in the end rooting for Oregon and Fresno State, no matter how sick it makes you feel inside, is in the best interest of Boise State. Also keep in mind essentially within a 2-week period fellow WAC members Fresno State and Boise State could score huge points will pollsters with wins over highly ranked teams. If Boise State wants respect and a chance at a second BCS game a wins over ranked teams goes a long way in helping that become a reality. Go Broncos!!