By Gio Gaxiola — Reporter
San Jose State (4-0) will put its perfect record on the line this Saturday at Boise State (4-1, 4-0 MW).
The Spartans have never beaten the Broncos, losing all 14 matchups dating back to 1978.
Despite the lopsided number, this match up feels different from the previous years. With both teams fighting for a spot in the Mountain West Championship Game, Saturday’s matchup was elevated to a national TV showing on Fox.
Last year, the Broncos went to CEFCU Stadium and beat the Spartans 52-42. SJSU quarterback Josh Love threw for 438 yards and two touchdowns — one of those touchdowns went to then-senior wide receiver Bailey Gaither who also had 110 receiving yards in the loss.
The Spartans defense could not stop freshman running back George Holani who ran for 126 yards and four touchdowns.
Here are the keys for both teams as they prepare to square off in a highly anticipated matchup:
SJSU
1. Establish the passing game early.
Boise State is ranked fourth in the MW in pass defense. The Broncos have held opposing quarterbacks to an average of 190 yards per game. But there are holes in the secondary allowing 11 passing touchdowns this season. If the Spartans are going to have any chance in beating the Broncos, they must establish the passing game early. If quarterback Nick Starkel can be successful early, the Spartans can win this game.
2. Win the battle up front.
The Spartans’ offensive line has been a big part of the team’s recent success. The O-line has only given up three sacks all year, this ranks second in the MW. Senior center Trevor Robbins and the guys up front must stop a Broncos defensive line that has 12 sacks this season. BSU is led by junior defensive end Shane Irwin who is tied at the top of the MW with 5.0 sacks this season.
On the flip side the Spartans defensive line is shaping up to have a big game with 14 sacks on the year, ranked third in the MW. The Broncos O-line has given up 14 sacks this year. Cade Hall has a team-leading 5.5 sack total on the season. Sophomore defensive end Viliami Fehoko would like to add to his 4.0 sack total.
3. Have a no fly zone on the blue turf.
The Spartans defense has only allowed four passing touchdowns this season, tied for second in the MW. The secondary is led by sophomore safety Tre Jenkins — the lone Spartan with an interception this season. SJSU must establish a no-fly zone on the blue turf. The Broncos are famous for having a high octane passing game at home. Take away the passing game and the Broncos become a one dimensional team. The battle between the SJSU secondary and BSU’s receivers will be a pivotal one.
Boise State
1. Keep the foot on the pedal.
The Broncos offense has scored 27 touchdowns this season, the best in the MW. They are relying on sophomore quarterback Hank Bachmeier, who is hopeful to start after taking a big hit against Hawaii. If not, then look for the Broncos to turn to the running game. The team has a total of 16 rushing touchdowns this year, placing the Broncos first in the MW. Junior running back Andrew Van Buren and company need to keep their foot on the pedal and defend home turf.
2. Special teams can change the game.
The Broncos have four total return touchdowns on the season and the only two punt return touchdowns in the MW. Special team touchdowns are special because they are huge momentum swingers. Look for the Broncos to try to score another one of these unique touchdowns Saturday.
3. Shut down the Spartans’ wide receiving core.
One of the main strengths of the SJSU football team is the receiving core including graduate wide receiver Bailey Gaither. His four touchdown catches this season ranks him third in MW. Senior wide receiver Tre Walker was ranked the best receiver in the conference when the preseason rankings came out. It is no surprise that the Broncos secondary will look to shut them down before they can do some damage.
This is one of the most anticipated Mountain West matchups of the year. The winner will have a good chance of making the MW championship game. You can watch the game on FOX Saturday at 2 p.m.
Follow Gio on Twitter @GaxiolaGio
