Bleacher Report - Articles by Lace Banachek

Boise State's BCS Hopes Are Thriving in Only Their Sophomore Year

Lace Banachek — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 20:09:03 -0500

At the conclusion of last season, there were not many who imagined Boise State would be undefeated and ranked sixth in the BCS. For that matter, it seemed like the early polls were throwing the Broncos a bone putting them in the top twenty-five at all.

After all, Boise State graduated pretty much all of the team worth mentioning. Plus, there was Jeremy Childs who sought to jump ship in hope of landing in the NFL (he missed his landing). Albeit, there was still hope for Boise State as long as the Broncos sophomore quarterback was healthy.

Kellen Moore is indeed healthy, his touchdowns are up, interceptions down, has passed for over 3,000 yards, and is the number one quarterback in the nation with a passer rating of 168.7 (only Tony Pike from Cincinnati has the next highest rating at 162.2).

Indeed, Kellen Moore achieved all of that with a depleted offensive line, and a new set of receivers, which must be remembered that Ian Johnson, the Broncos all-everything running back, was also a favorite target of Moore’s out of the backfield—and he graduated as well.

It is not easy to come back quickly when a team graduates so much talent. The Broncos did not lose just offensive talent; they graduated pretty much everybody but their secondary off of last season's defensive unit. Thus, in some minds, Boise State would most likely give up the conference title as they had in 2007. It didn’t happen!

Boise State held on to the Governor's Cup one more time when they defeated Nevada Friday evening. The Wolf Pack had just came off an eight game winning streak and proved to be a formidable foe once again, losing to the Broncos 44 to 33.

The Broncos' new defense is very young, but they will only be better next season. Boise State loses two cornerbacks Kyle Wilson and Garcia Day, a fullback/tight end Richie Brockel and reserve wide receiver Michael Choate.

Of these four, only Wilson and Brockel were first team starters. However, Boise State has had many injuries this season; Brockel (lost for the season) was among them. They will be missed, but the Broncos will have considerable depth at all positions (the redshirt scout team is jammed to the hilt).

Next season, the Broncos will be stronger and deeper than they have ever been, but not just in body count—there are numerous potential all-star caliber and select potential NFL candidates.

This season the Broncos surprised everyone, even many of their fans when they assembled such a powerful team in one year. There is no doubt that Boise State's final regular season game against New Mexico State will not be a terrific challenge. However, the challenge will be in replacing their number one receiver Austin Pettis who was hurt in last weeks game against the Wolf Pack.

Austin Pettis is an elusive receiver with strong hands and fingers like glue—he catches just about everything and is already missed. There is hope he may be back for the Bowl game, and this year that Bowl game appears to be a BCS Bowl.

The Broncos got the attention this year of the BCS and they have rewarded them kindly all season. It appears the Broncos need only to finish their NMSU game respectfully and for the University of Texas to beat Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship Game.

Barring that upset, Colt McCoy’s Texas team is headed for a national championship title game with the winner of Florida and Alabama.

There is talk of the Broncos going to the Sugar but it seems most likely that TCU will do that due to their higher ranking—the Broncos will head to the Fiesta Bowl to match up against Iowa or Penn State.

My opinion? Boise State will be primed for either one.

Boise State and Nevada Reno on ESPN: Is the BCS Watching?

Lace Banachek — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:03:48 -0500

The Boise State Broncos need a win against Nevada to claim title to the WAC once again. The BCS has the Broncos ranked sixth in their top 25 poll once again as if they were daring the Broncos to lose to Nevada.

After losing three games to BCS teams; one of them a 35 to 0 shellacking from Notre Dame, Nevada was pretty much discarded by ESPN and the media hopefuls for being the one to end Boise States power run in the WAC.

However, since Nevada lost to Missouri, Nevada Reno has run off 8 straight wins and they have done so quite easily. Thus it appears that ESPN and other non-supporters of Bronco football have once again a hope to end Boise States run for the BCS and as well put an end to the Broncos long running winning record on the blue.

What would it take for NR to achieve that goal? For one, they would have to be able to defend the pass, and that unfortunately for Nevada needs to be done against a team whose quarterback leads the nation in pass efficiency and if that was not enough Nevada Reno is dead last (119th) defending the pass.

Needless to say, that is not a recipe for an upset. Now for a different stressor; Nevada Reno is one of the finest run game teams in all of college football. Their quarterback has passed and ran for over 1,000 yards, and he is not the only NR member to pass the 1000-yard mark this season.

That spells trouble for anybody. Has Boise State ever come across such a diversely talented team before and survived? Yes, the Bronco’s beat NR last year and also did extremely well against the PAC 10's Oregon Ducks as Boise State went on to an undefeated season in 2008.

But critics might say, that is true but the team that beat Nevada Reno is basically a whole different unit and NR is not. That would be correct with exception of the Bronco quarterback and his number one receiver Pettis. The two of those guys were instrumental in last season’s victory.

Also, the Broncos gave the Oregon Ducks a more sounder whuppin this year (shutting down their No. 1 running back and their quarterback Massoli). Only one other team was able to even come close to doing the same (Stanford).

Yet, for all intent and purpose the 2009 rendition of Boise State is a far better team especially on defense and special teams. The only negative the Broncos are showing this season is with their snapper, it seems that because he is short (not small, almost 300 pounds) he senses the need to block before he has properly handed Kellen Moore the ball.

The Broncos have survived his fumbles thus far. But then turnovers could be crucial come Friday night.

Indeed the Broncos do not quite average a turnover per game (it’s closer to one turn over every three games) give or take a percentage point.

Now on the other hand Nevada does not quite average two turnovers a game it more like five every three games (give or take a percentage point).

So what does all of this mean Bronco fans and haters? It’s pretty simple really, Boise State is going to have a huge day passing, Nevada will run the ball well, but not that well. Boise State has showed that they can contain the pass and the run; limiting opposing quarterbacks (the more talented ones).

It will be a good game, but Boise State will keep its winning streak alive on the blue (in the regular season). And that’s another story. Go Broncos.

Boise State Not Overlooking Utah State To Prep for Nevada Showdown

Lace Banachek — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:11:25 -0500

Many of the college elite football teams are playing soft games this week. Florida is playing their rendition of the Boise State-Cal Davis game. The Gators are playing Florida International or something close to that.

The end result should be a sweet Florida victory and it gives them a week to nurse their wounds and get as healthy as they can for Florida State, who is now playing with their backup quarterback. However, all is not cushy for Florida, as their last game is the SEC championship game with Alabama.

Like Florida, Boise State has a potentially easy game coming this week with Utah State. However, Utah State is very well coached and have the players to capitalize on another’s mistakes should Boise State not bring their A-game.

Yet, for all intents and purposes, the Broncos will not overlook coach Anderson's Utah State team, which they are set to play Friday. The Broncos' final game of this season against New Mexico State should not promote any real concern either. The concern for the Broncos and their fans will have already played itself out.

Boise State is set to play Nevada Reno on the final Saturday night of November. Earlier in the year, Nevada appeared to be struggling; even Notre Dame blew them out, but the Wolfpack of Nevada is a much more explosive team than the one that the fighting Irish played.

Just a week ago, Nevada Reno closed out their once-close game with 35 unanswered points. Bronco fans, that says a mouthful! Indeed, the Wolfpack are developing their A-game.

The Broncos also played extremely well last week against the hapless university of Idaho Vandals. The Boise State Broncos may have played their best game since they knocked the yellow socks right off of the Oregon Ducks in the Broncos season opener.

So what does all this mean? Once again, Nevada is the WAC hopeful for spoiler. The pack always is a potential threat and they must be taken seriously. Guaranteed Boise State will be studying them as in-depth as they can over the eight days between games.

That Bronco fans is why Boise State is the elite team of the WAC. The Broncos take every game serious whether it is Oregon State, Oklahoma, Tulsa, or Miami of Ohio. Boise State will be ready. The Bronco defense will be prepared, and Kellen and company will do their thing—SCORE. And that’s another story.

Go Broncos!

If Boise State's AD Is Looking for BCS Guarantee Games, He Should Say So!

Lace Banachek — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:45:13 -0500

It appears the only thing the Broncos athletic director has been able to do on his own was to turn the green turf blue. Thanks a lot, Gene Bleymaier! What are you doing for an encore? That is a very easy question to answer. Not much!

This year, Boise State athletic director Gene Bleymaier's most difficult task was to find two guarantee games; one for the year 2010, and the latter the following season 2011. Well, lo and behold, the 2010 task was accomplished, Virginia Tech agreed to play the Broncos on Oct. 2, 2010 at Fed Ex Field in Washington, DC.

The local papers and all the Boise-ite’s were praising the AD for his great work, "thank you, Gene" from the largest to the smallest fans could be found at the (Boise) Statesman’s online paper.

Enough is enough, please. First of all, Bleymaier did not contact V-Tech on his own. The first contact was made from the Washington Redskins (NFL) to Virginia Tech, seeing if they would be interested, as the Redskins were trying desperately to draw a fan base to Fed Ex Field to view quality college football over the next few years.

Tech agreed. Why not they will receive more money (nearly a couple hundred thousand dollars more) by virtually staying home, as Fed Ex field is a small jaunt for the Hokies, which assures them a sort of home atmosphere.

Regardless, Boise State fans applaud Virginia Tech for their signing and are totally grateful for the Redskins organization’s interference (or initiative).

Having said that, half of Bleymaier’s obligation to the Boise State Broncos is fulfilled and he barely had to leave his Boise home. The second half should be easy, with just one game to fix for 2011? Yet Gene is striking out. No one in the BCS will play the Broncos.

Why is that? It is crazy. Bleymaier seems stumped, or is he stupefied? Notre Dame has only nine games scheduled for 2011. Certainly a team that plays USC regularly would be willing to pay the Broncos a million dollars to play them at their home in Indiana?

ESPN’s Graham Watson quotes Bleymaier saying, "We hear people talk about our scheduling, and the first point I want to make is that we'll play anybody in the country home-and-home." Watson continues, "The second thing is we're now looking for a guarantee game. In most cases, probably once a year. We would prefer home-and-home, but in lieu of that or in addition to some home-and-home games we are in the market for a guarantee game in most years.”

My god, Bleymaier, if you want a guarantee game than say it! Leave all the other crap out of the picture. USC, Notre Dame, Michigan, etc are not interested in playing at a 30-thousand seat stadium, no matter how much the team bilks their fans to sit in them.

The priority is to fill the 2011 spot with a quality BCS team. If not Georgia, Florida, Texas, Cal, etc., then the objective is to find a Florida State or a Cincinnati to complete the deal. But if Bleymaier stipulates the first thing he is hoping is for a home-and-home, the door will be shut long before the sales pitch even gets made.

Well the WAC is hiring a PR firm to finish Bleymaier’s work, which is hooking the Broncos up with a BCS road game for 2011. They may get lucky if they don’t drag Gene along. Lock it up, PR, and fax Gene the papers. And that’s another story – Go Broncos

Boise State on the Southern Road: Lousiana Tech Hopes to Stay Perfect at Home

Lace Banachek — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:31:42 -0500

Friday night Boise State plays La Tech in Louisiana. The Broncos have traveled great distance already this season while fulfilling their 2009 schedule and remaining undefeated. Louisiana Tech, this season, has won three games and lost five.

The three games they have won were all on their home field. In fact, La Tech’s last two losses on the road to Idaho and Utah State went to the wire. La Tech lost by two points to Utah State, 23 to 21. They also had a tight 35 to 34 loss at the University of Idaho. La Tech has struggled this year, but seem to be playing better football now.

Their coach Derek Dooley, the son of the legendary University of Georgia Bulldogs coach Vince Dooley, seems to be doing well in only his third year. It appears that La Tech would have to win out if they were to repeat being Bowl eligible this season.

Overall, the Dooley-coached team has represented the WAC well since Derek’s appointment as head coach and athletic director in 2007. Prior to Dooley, La Tech had only two winning seasons—the first in 1999—going 8 and 3 and being ranked 30th of 117 teams. In 2001, La Tech was 7 and 5, similar to last season's team.

Coach Dooley was brought to Ruston to turn their program around, thus he knows football and should not be taken lightly. Still, the odds are that while they have been perfect at home, defeating Boise State at Ruston will prove to be one of their greatest challenges this year, if not their greatest.

It seems that Boise State should be able to run against this team as the Bronco offensive lineman have been blocking out very well lately. Boise State likes Avery and Martin to handle the bulk of that load. But the most powerful back appears to be Matt Kaiserman. Matt has had some really solid action since returning from his injury.

However, Boise State football has always been about passing. Having said that, look for the receivers Pettis, Young, Shoemaker, and Kellen Moore's much bigger little brother Kirby to rack up some serious yardage, all the while lighting up the scoreboard pretty much at will.

The end result will be an entertaining game as La Tech always proves itself to be a fierce competitor at their home turf. Bronco fans are still waiting for their team to play a solid defensive game. That hasn’t happened since the Broncos destroyed the Oregon Ducks in their season opening game. It seem like the Broncos problem, if their is any, lies in the secondary. And that’s another story. Go Broncos.

Boise State Attacked For Soft Schedule: But No BCS Teams Will Play Them

Lace Banachek — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:07:58 -0500

Year after year, BCS fans rip the Broncos for continuing to play a marshmallow field and even the BCS uses the Broncos soft schedule as a reason to deny them a BCS bowl even when they are undefeated.

Last season the Broncos (12-0) were passed over for the BCS bowls and allowed teams to enter with inferior win-loss records.

Boise State has set out to accommodate the BCS, but no one wants to play them, except Oregon State. Sure Oregon State and Virginia Tech agreed to play Boise State next season (2010), but the Broncos have one road game yet to fill their 2011 schedule and according to WAC commissioner Karl Benson who spoke with the Idaho Statesman, the Broncos are struggling to schedule.

The Statesman reported the Broncos cannot get “a BCS-conference opponent for 2011—even with the help (and exposure and money) of ESPN behind the effort. The Broncos are not asking for a return game in Boise.”

The amount of teams that have said no to the Broncos is roughly 10.

Its not like the Broncos are asking teams for a one-and-one. The opposition never has to step foot on the “Blue Turf” that seems to be a sore spot across the country. Playing the Broncos offers ESPN incentives as well.

So what is on the table for the BCS opponent? The BCS team gets to stay at home (if they choose), they will be compensated, and they get to show their prowess over the lowly WAC one more time.

Sounds like a schedule made in heaven for any BCS team?

Apparently not! What is the key to this schedule problem is the BCS opposition does not want to lose, and they do not want to explain to their fans and conference playmates that the Broncos gave them a beat down.

Well here is the opening for Bronco haters to bring up the past and the many Broncos loses (by less than a touchdown) from the mighty BCS. Albeit that was then, come on BCS step up, show your footballs to Boise State and get 2011 set!

However, should there be none (mighty BCS teams) willing, than when it comes time for the Broncos to bring their undefeated schedule to the Bowls, do not use the excuse that Boise States record is to soft, it is only soft because no BCS teams will play.

The Broncos and their fans are looking forward to the scheduling of that final 2011 game. Benson said the WAC is hiring a firm to help promote that game. It’s kind of like the Broncos are paying somebody, anybody to play them and still no one wants too.

That’s another story—go Broncos

Boise State Coach Loses It: Titus Young Hit With Excessive Celebration

Lace Banachek — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:22:45 -0400

Probably one of the most ridiculous penalties in football at any level (college or pro) is the excessive celebration call. Having said that, it should be obvious to anybody who watches Boise States Titus Young that of all the players on the Broncos team it will be Titus who will get called for the celebration penalty.

Why? Is Titus a showboat? No! Not any more so than anybody else playing the game, he just gets excited when he scores (a whole lot excited). Titus Young is a nice kid.

It would not be unlike Titus to parade around the endzone after a touchdown, heck he has done it before; adrenaline pumping through him like a chicken with his head cut off. In reality Titus does not do anything any more irritating than any body else celebrating.

What’s with all the body bumps after great plays and scores? It is the same ole thing for every team in the league (even 40-year-old Brett Farve) is beginning to do it, but that is allowed. A few other things are allowed as well. So what?

The call needs to be done away with, especially if it is going to get a coach so worked up that he parades toward the player yelling and cursing out of control twice (the camera caught Brent Pease; coach Pete’s assistant head coach and wide receivers coach and furthermore Pease didn’t care who heard him or viewed his action).

Following that display Titus was benched. You don’t bench a kid as talented as Titus over something that ridiculous. It is amazing for a coach to act that way. Personally, it seems wrong that any coach should act that way and not be punished for it?

It was the same type of out of control behavior that ended coach Bobby Knights career at Indiana. A coach needs to have control over himself, does he not? Is the coach saying that a player needs to control his actions when it comes to the celebration?

Well than, show the kids a way they can vent after doing something great and by all means the coach should show a little restraint himself?

Pease is fortunate that he is not my assistant and I think the Young’s need to talk about Pease actions to Titus’s head coach Chris Petersen quickly and that’s another story. Go Titus

Creature vs. Creature: Boise State's SOS Ranked Higher Than Florida's

Lace Banachek — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:23:38 -0400

This season the top ranked Gators of the Southeastern Conference are winning (5-0). What’s new? The Boise State Broncos of the Western Athletic Conference are also winning (6-0). What's new?

The only thing new for, and between these two teams, is their strength of schedules. Boise State is ranked 38th and Florida 46th.

Heading Home From the Bakery

The sports world generally has respect for what the Boise State Broncos have accomplished in roughly 14 years in Division One football. Still, the weak schedule that the Broncos are tagged with is the wagging that opposing fans use to win their arguments.

Year in and year out, it's SOS this and SOS that, blah blah blah. Surprising them is that SOS is built on not only who is played but how well the other teams are doing.

Not everyone on the Boise State schedule is doing poorly. That’s right, the Broncos' competition is all not cupcakes and cream puffs. But how bout that SEC?

A Comparative View

Bronco pastry teams thus far have been the Oregon Ducks (Pac 10), Fresno State Bulldogs (WAC), and Tulsa (C-USA). With the exception of the Ducks, this appears not to be that frightening of a competition. Yes, the Ducks are whipping up on everyone but Boise State and Fresno State took a very good Big Ten team into overtime, and Tulsa is always a threat.

Florida, one of the greatest teams in college football today, is never questioned regarding its schedule. Why? Because they are the money pool of the BCS. The Florida Gators get the best when it comes to recruiting and they play well, but who are they playing this year?

Florida played LSU, a fearsome team, a lot like the caliber that Boise State played in the Ducks, but it tapers off big time after that.

Call me silly, but Florida’s competition (Troy, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas) does not necessarily bring shivers down the spines of opposing football teams. Or do they? Are any of these teams winning, and if so, to whom are they giving the beat down?

If any of the Gators' competition was winning, their SOS would not be lagging behind the Broncos' at present. Kind of like Bowling Green, Miami of Ohio, and Cal Davis (previous Boise State competition)—not very impressive, but who’s counting?

The Broncos Are Content

This year the Broncos' SOS is eight points better than the Gators. Why? Because unlike last year, the teams playing Boise are not individually better, but they are individually playing better. Boise State has nothing to prove.

Every year Boise State has been in the BCS buster conversations and the Broncos, as if they needed any reminding, are the top contender this year. Big deal? Yes, but just for the other contenders.

The Broncos are doing what they always do. Winning. And that's another story.

Go Broncos

Trey Jones' related article can be found here.

BSU Broncos Ranked Fourth In First BCS Poll: Monday Quarterbacks Livid

Lace Banachek — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:49:52 -0400

A chief sport editor’s comment after Boise States lack luster 28 to 21 win over Tulsa Golden Hurricane saying, “Was Wednesday night's win over Tulsa really a loss for Boise State in the eyes of the voters?” is without saying the most ignorant question ever launched at Bronco football fans.

There is only one view that matters, it is not the associated press who differs from time to time with the only view that matters the BCS. So what does the BCS think of Boise State? They don’t think, the BCS uses computers to do their thinking for them.

According to the Idaho Statesman prior to Sunday’s release of the first BCS poll, “In the three polls that are used for the BCS rankings all have Boise State at No. 5. The Broncos are fifth in the coaches' poll, the Harris Interactive poll and the computer rankings, which averages six different computer rankings.”

Well apparently the BCS did not view the win as a loss. Why not? Because the computer is not bias, it does not view WAC teams as lowly or otherwise. Truly there is no better way to say it other than a win is a win.

BSU fans (across the United States) do not view the Boise State win over Tulsa as a loss. Bronco fans no doubt are disturbed that the Broncos did not humble Tulsa by scoring 40 or 50 points. They just were not able to.

The Broncos tried to accommodate Boise fans and haters wherever they are but Kellen Moore, Boise States ever accurate and cool quarterback was not his normal self. Frankly he seems to be in a slump.

The second most accurate quarterback this season is about three hundred yards off his game and that would seem to be responsible of the run, run, run-system that the Broncos are trying to get going.

Where Bronco fans are use to seeing the pass set up the run, Bronco coaches have put the game in reverse hoping the run sets up the pass (it certainly has taken some points off the board).

Why the big deal for getting the run game going? Maybe it has a lot to do with the redshirt freshman that is sitting on the sidelines? Malcolm Johnson may be the fastest most evenly balanced running back from the state of Oregon and he is waiting for next year so he can help out Avery, Harper, and Martin.

Malcolm will get double teamed because he is that good, but the BCS computer doesn’t know who he is, it can’t even smell the potatoes. No, the BCS has never favored the Broncos till now because it did not recognize them till now.

There are standards for recognition for the BCS poll and the Boise State Broncos have met them this season. What happens from here on out to Boise State either positively or negatively is not personal.

Frankly, Bronco fans are truly excited this season because they did not expect to be where they are until next season (2010).

So will the Broncos play for a national championship this year? Most likely not, will they stay in the BCS top five and or play in a BCS Bowl? That remains to be seen.

However, Bronco fans and haters alike, the Boise State team you are seeing this year will be immensely more talented next year and will be seated close to the top of the BCS poll with the best of the rest, with championship game within their sight as well their grasp. And that's another story. Go Broncos

Boise State to Tulsa: Will the BCS Top Five the Broncos after the Game?

Lace Banachek — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:55:24 -0400

Boise State has played Division I football for only 14 years, and it appears the majority of coaches and pollsters agree that the Broncos are worthy of their top five ranking (give or take a couple coaches). The question is, will the BCS abide?

Since the arrival of Boise State to Division I-A, it seems that the BCS "powers that be" have not been all that supportive.

Or have they? The BCS, after all, has specific standards by which it operates.

Those standards can be difficult to appreciate for non-BCS teams like Boise State and Tulsa, and, often times, the fans feeling picked on. They start desiring to be in conferences where they believe the chance for championship contention, or a decent bowl offer, is there every season (like in the Big East, where the winner goes to the Orange Bowl).

For Boise State, the Broncos must compete against their own conference every year, as all other schools are required for achieving the number one spot, and then are considered by the BCS Selection Committee to reach the prized BCS bowls.

However, this 2009 season, the pollsters have placed the Boise State Broncos into the top five position midway through the college season. The BCS makes their first poll selections Oct. 18 (this Sunday).

Regardless of the Broncos' rankings, the spotlight is on them in a very big way. The Broncos had a poor showing in their victory over Cal Davis, a Division I-AA team, despite a Bronco victory by 18 points.

Thus, Boise State needs to play extremely well against their next opponent, C-USA’s Tulsa Golden Hurricane. Tulsa has only lost once this season, and that was to the Oklahoma Sooners, 45-0.

The bar has been raised and it is set; Boise State must limit Tulsa’s points and, at the same time, continue to go up and down the field, into the red zone, scoring at will.

If the Broncos fail to accomplish that goal, it will most likely mean that they will be jumped in the BCS poll by three or four BCS teams, and any hopes of a championship game will be lost for this year.

Yet, many voters seem to be set on the idea that the Broncos will meet a BCS powerhouse team like Texas or Oklahoma in the Fiesta bowl, and for that to materialize, the Broncos must win the remainder of their games, and do so respectfully.

It is hard for non-BCS teams, but aside from a playoff, there is truly no better way for those lesser conferences to compete against the BCS super powers.

The Broncos are in better position this season because they are ranked number five by the Harris poll and that along with the polls packs some serious weight.

It would take a miracle of sorts for the Broncos to play for the BCS Championship Game, but the prized Fiesta Bowl is surely doable. Go Broncos!

Oregon Coach Needs To Make the Right Call: Reinstate LeGarrette Blount

Lace Banachek — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:46:26 -0400

Three wrongs do not make a right. In fact, three wrongs in one night is sufficient ground for anyone to get fired. Certainly, the axe would fall following the Oregon-Boise State season opener, but not where it probably should have: on Chip Kelley.

Sometimes one just needs to sit back and thoroughly ponder a situation before acting upon it. Obviously, Kelley believed he had done this following the LeGarrette Blount sucker punch, but in reality he just passed the buck.

There were things that could have been done prior to the game and immediately following the game that were not done, and all of these lead back to first-year head coach Kelley.

First of all, coach Kelley allowing his team players to get fueled up over so-called intentional late hits was wrong. There comes a time when a coach has to draw the line, tell his kids to just shut it up, and get on with it.

That ax again falls to Kelley. He allowed Blount, Jeremiah Masoli, and Ed Dickson to vent their views with the media and the word spread—the Broncos were entitled to a butt whoopin'. Thus, bad coaching allowed Oregon journalist Hunt to fan the fires often.

The end result was indeed a butt whoopin', but it wasn't on the Broncos (that is, until Blount was allowed to take measures into his own hands). The bottom line here is where was Kelley?

OK, let's flip the scenario around and say, "where was Chris Petersen, the Boise State coach?" Pete was on the field and watching his players and when the first of his players ran off his mouth, he was there reprimanding him.

In fact, coach Pete got on Byron Hout before and after the punch that Blount fired. Blount was keyed up before, during, and after the game to the effect that young LeGarrette pushed his own teammates. Where was Kelley?

The following day, Kelley suspended Blount for the rest of his senior year and to the applause of many people around the nation who were also riled up not unlike those at a witch burning. You just don't feel right until you smell the stench of action.

Well, in hindsight, Bronco fans and some major media have had a change of heart. They no longer are enjoying the scent of the young Blount being charred for the whole world to see.

A reinstatement of LeGarrette Blount should not delay. Here and now, coach Kelley has a chance to show the world that he is the coach, take matters into his own hands, and allow Blount to get in shape and help out his team.

Should his players be allowed to talk to the media? That's Kelley's call, but that is where Kelley screwed up to begin with. He needs to take responsibility for that lack of action at all games. If needed, he should be the last person off the field.

The Oregon Ducks are a fine team with excellent people playing and coaching. It is time to make the right call. Blount served his time, so get him on the field! It's the right call and that's another story.

Boise State Dilemma: Will a No. 5 Ranking Unravel the Poised Broncos?

Lace Banachek — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 19:57:01 -0400

The Associated Press, USA Today, and Harris Polls concretely agree as to who the top five college football teams in the nation are, in order, and the Boise State Broncos are locked in at the No. 5 position.

With the BCS set to deliver its first top-25 poll on October 18, it is of the utmost importance that there is a consensus regarding the Broncos among the voters who legitimize that ranking.

With that said, the Broncos are considered a top-five team for the first time in the history of Boise State football. The question is whether or not BSU can remain cool under the pressure of having to prove itself all year by winning—and winning big—over all of their remaining opponents.

The Broncos can no longer afford to be taken to the wire by a Nevada team that has struggled against all of its foes. They cannot afford to go into Hawaii and be anything but spectacular.

Certainly when Notre Dame showed up Hawaii last year, and Nevada this year, the bar was set as to what is expected from a quality team in that same situation.

With that said, Boise State is set to play Tulsa in two weeks. How can the Broncos not be held to the same standard that Oklahoma set when the Sooners blew away Tulsa with their back-up quarterback?

The Broncos' next game is against Cal Davis. That game must be won in the same fashion that Boise State handled Miami of Ohio when the Redhawks came to town: dominantly.

No longer can the Broncos afford to play anything but quality football, game in and game out, if they are to maintain their elite ranking.

Boise Broncos know how to handle pressure; they have done so for years.

The question remains: Will they do it this year?

The Broncos are usually fully prepared for their opponents. They train for teams like Cal Davis and those in the Mountain West and WAC as rigorously as they train for BCS teams.

Therefore, it seems logical that Boise State will not only show themselves to be of championship caliber over the next three games, but for the remainder of the season.

The Broncos are a special team this year, better than ever. Young but mechanically mature. Now, with only two starting seniors, they have been respectfully rewarded.

Boise State has achieved the ultimate dream of any college football team; they will respond in kind.

But that’s another story.

Go Broncos.

How Does The Loss Of D J Harper Affect Boise States Running The Table?

Lace Banachek — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 23:20:48 -0400

Already this season fans have watched Jeron Johnson, George Iloka, and DJ Harper fall hard to the turf. Sadly, one of the three (the Texas Tornado) tore an ACL and could not get up on his own; he will be lost for the season.

What does that mean for the Boise State Broncos who seem destined to prove they can run the ball this year? Well it obviously would mean more if Harper was not hurt, but the Broncos are not devastated yet. Enter Doug Martin, the Broncos' everything.

Doug plays special teams (all star), offense (running back), and defense (nickel). Doug’s heart is bigger then his 5 foot 9 inch dimensions. He just wants to get out there. Yet to play this year at running back is the injured Matt Kaiserman.

Matt will be beneficial when he returns, but until then junior Jarvis Hodge will be counted on to assist Jeremy Avery and Martin in the tailback position. Helping to bust open holes is the job of the O-Line and full backs. Both are doing a far better job then last season.

Leading the way at fullback is the 6 foot 2 inch-Richie Brockel. Richie is also added at the fullback position by former linebacker Dan Paul. Dan is a great blocker and is relentless once on the field. Down the road the Broncos have another treat at the tailback/fullback position, but this one will be used very sparingly at the position, he is defensive tackle Michael “Canadian Bacon” Atkinson.

Bacon is a 320-pound mass of battering prowess. Michael will be coming off suspension and ready to play on Oct. 3, when Boise State entertains Cal Davis. Cal Davis is the former school where Bronco coach Chris Petersen played quarterback very successfully.

It would appear that the Broncos are OK with or without the Tornado, but to borrow a heavily used phrase from the University of Texas coach Mack Brown, “not so fast, big boy”; You just don’t take a back out of the game that gives you six yards a carry on average and expect it not to make a difference.

Having said that, the Broncos will most likely pass more often, and that should not upset the fans. However, Avery will continue to get the ball, it would be ridiculous not to, especially after Jeremy Avery tore loose Friday with a 186-yard effort against Fresno State.

The Broncos are deep, very deep and not at just running back. Don’t look for the loss of any player other then Kellen Moore to affect the overall win-loss of the Broncos. Even Kellen Moore has a respectable back up in 6 fooot 5 inch-Mike Coughlin and a super star to-be inJoe Southwick — waiting in the wing temporarily at No. 3.

The bottom line is Broncos will be solid for the next few years. They are getting better, BCS bound better, and that’s another story. Go Broncos.

Boise State Football: The Broncos Have Reached a Major Milestone

Lace Banachek — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:40:10 -0400

The 2009 Boise State Broncos have taken their football program to new heights. They are at No. 8 on both polls this season. The Broncos have never made it that high on the polls in the regular season.

The question is, will BSU be No. 8 or higher when the BCS begins their poll on October 18? Of course, Boise State has finished higher then eighth after the BCS Bowl games on their final poll. The Broncos 2007 Fiesta Bowl victory had the Broncos finishing at No. 5.

The following two seasons BSU started new quarterbacks each year; both were as different as night and day. Last season QB Kellen Moore, a redshirt freshman, legitimately nailed down the starting job and finished his season very respectable, setting team completion percentage.

Coach Chris Petersen’s Broncos, which comprise of mostly junior and sophomore talent only slightly, resemble last year’s team. Gone are Vinny Perretta, Ian Johnson, Jeremy Childs, two offensive lineman that now play professional ball in Canada, Mike T Williams, Kyle Gingg, etc.

Normally when teams lose such great players they rebuild and that takes a year or two to develop into something good, but Boise State is not your run-of-the-mill Division I college football team. They lamented the loss of some extreme talent and set their sights on the 2009 season.

This season's Broncos are explosive in every aspect of the game. BSU has a better defense, and some of the guys that make the unit better have not played yet this season due to preseason injury and suspensions.

Last year's defensive scout player of the year, Michael "Canadian Bacon" Atkinson, will not be coming off his three-game suspension for this week's game against Bowling Green. Canadian Bacon has multiple uses. His prowess is defensive tackle, where his 320-pound frame tosses aside and crushes his opposition, but he will also be used as a short yardage back for Kellen Moore’s offense this season.

Fans will see Bacon’s debut following the Bowling Green game on October 3 against Cal Davis. Moore also does not resemble the redshirt freshman he was last season. This year he has matured greatly.

Kellen has shown more mobility and seems to be more patient. Kellen’s prime receivers are Austin Pettis, Titus Young, and Tyler Shoemaker, and they are all uniquely different. Austin, Kellen’s go-to guy, has sure hands and at 6'3" with fluid mobility they team up a lot.

Titus Young is extremely fast, very elusive, and highly athletic. His skills range from special team returns to deep threat at receiver. He has scored both ways for the Broncos thus far this season, and he is exciting when it comes to returns.

Shoemaker is a slot receiver and very good. When Kellen and Shoemaker connect, they are a threat to take it the distance because Shoe is dependable and does not drop many passes.

Kyle Efaw, Tommy Gallarda, and Richie Brockel shore up tight end. Efaw comes through a lot, and his 6'4" frame and dependable hands make for a sweet target.

The depth of the talented Bronco team is responsible for its early ranking. They are only going to get better, and that’s another story. Go Broncos!

Boise State-Fresno State: A Gameday Opinion on Bronco Game Day

Lace Banachek — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:25:17 -0400

Fresno State has been considered a rival for Boise State because they play tough, well-coached football. Sure, they have had success against the Broncos, but mostly against other foes. Pat Hill’s Bulldogs, at present 2-0, have accomplished that feat with a brand new quarterback at the helm. The Fresno QB has been nothing short of brilliant and no doubt has left fans saying, "Tom Brandstater who?"

However, Brandstater had very successful seasons as a Bulldog and began a new entry in his resume as a sixth-round draft choice to the Denver Broncos in the 2009 NFL draft, and he is doing pretty well according to the media. It takes good coaching to help players advance from college to the pro game.

Having said that, a good coach prepares his team for the incoming opponent, regardless of how many times they have played one another. Finishing that thought, at the close of the game know that a good coach will not allow his players to go on and on about the end result, win or lose.

Boise State coach Chris Petersen allows his players to celebrate (or otherwise) their game for 24 hours. After that it’s on to the next opponent. The Bronco-Bulldog match will be in play in three more hours in Fresno, California. There is a lot of respect from both coaches regarding the so-called rivalry.

Coach Pete said he would have rather played Fresno later on in the season because they are always tough early on. Coach Pat said in recall of his recent game against BCS opponent Wisconsin that there was no comparison between the Badgers defense and that of the Boise State Broncos. He believes the Broncos are far superior.

In tonight’s game the Bulldogs are hoping to do what other teams recently have not been able to do—score a touchdown. The Bronco D will attempt to continue denying this and all other opponents that very thing.

Boise State has entered into a different realm of football. They are playing the best defensive play the Broncos have ever played and have done so two years in a row, and this years team is playing even better than the last and have accomplished that with the addition of new players.

The Broncos don’t rebuild, they reload, and that’s another story. Go Broncos!

Boise State Broncos: The Rodney Dangerfield Of College Football

Lace Banachek — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:14:24 -0400

Rodney Dangerfield once said, “I found there was only one way to look thin, hang out with fat people.” Unfortunately, that is the way most sports media and their fans look at the Boise State Broncos. They think the Broncos only appear to be winners because they are in a conference of losers, and many people believe the BSU athletic director prefers it that way.

However, regardless of the Boise State administration's poor game scheduling and lack of guts to play against BCS foes with no return game or two-for-one, the Broncos have proven themselves winners and worthy time after time.

Furthermore, Boise State started winning long before Gene Bleymaier and his Broncos arrived in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), college football's cellar conference.

Sure, the Broncos—like any other college football team—have played poorly in the past. But they haven't recently. Last season, under the guidance of brilliant coaching and the cool operation of a redshirt freshman quarterback, the Broncos finished their season undefeated and even beat a very fine Oregon Duck team in Eugene, Ore. along the way.

Boise State's only downfall last season was a one-point loss to TCU, and that may have been the very best TCU team ever to take the field. They were great. Boise State lost by just one point, but it didn’t even have to end that way either.

The Broncos play hard-fought football and, man-for-man, they line up among the very best college football teams in the nation.

This season, going into the third week of college play, BSU is perfect (2-0). And they open play in the Boise State conference with a game against Fresno State. Sure, Fresno State has played brilliantly in their first two games; Pat Hill coaches them and they live in California, where the sun always shines. That alone is most likely the reason that Hill is always tough early on.

But this is not the normal Bronco football team. Boise State has built a powerhouse, and they are deeper at any position than they have ever been.

Don’t be surprised if the Broncos do what Wisconsin could not, and keep the Bulldogs from scoring, or at least scoring very much.

And know this for sure: Fresno State will not contain the Broncos to a measly 34 points. This will be a smooth win for BSU, and that’s another story.

Go Broncos.

Boise State Broncos: Its Not Attitude; We Are That Good

Lace Banachek — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:11:57 -0400

Boise State goes about their football business one game at a time. The Duck game is in the past; its only value at present is to re-examine game films for game improvement. The next target is Miami of Ohio and they will be taken seriously.

There are no for-sure wins, no easy targets. The Bronco’s coach, Chris Petersen does not allow his players to think like that. That concept is like a sucker punch, “If you didn’t see it coming you were not prepared” (Lace Banachek).

Coach Pete instills the “be here now” ideology. Past performance and future hopes, dreams, etc. are not what is important to BSU football. At BSU it is not about trophies, awards, adulations, etc; it is about team play and winning the next game in line. It is about getting good grades, and being a fine community representative.

Coach Pete’s philosophy is to give 110 percent when you are in a place to give it. If you’re in the community, you’re not studying, and not playing football, so represent yourself, your family, and your school with dignity and honor. If coach has a curfew be where you’re supposed to be when you’re supposed to be there.

Most recently Coach Petersen was criticized for not giving Byron Hout a one or two game suspension for his part in the agitating of LeGarrette Blount, which led to Blount sucker punching Hout (for football's version of the shot heard around the world). Everybody was covering that situation, it like the Duck pre-game hype; it grew quickly out of proportion.

Oregon, which usually is soft on suspensions and team violations, knew they had no other choice than to dismiss Blount from the team, and they did but only as an active player. Boise State coach Pete is usually very hard on his players.

Whether a star player, or not, is found to have caused trouble count on it, he will pay the price. Enter Titus Young, who drew a short suspension at the beginning of the '08 season. He needed a further attitude adjustment and he got it, suspended for the remainder of the season (and he didn’t even have to hit someone to get it). Titus knew he was wrong and is now obeying the system.

Coach feels he can help Hout realize his error in judgment handling it his way. I would imagine that Byron, if asked, would gladly take a three-game suspension like the one handed to Canadian Bacon prior to fall camp then to answering to Coach Pete at any given moment.

Being a Bronco footballer is hard fought and honest. There is not even one Bronco that is not about team, and that is what makes the Boise State Broncos winners. And that’s another story. Go Broncos.

Not Quite Boise State Breaking News: But Close Enough to Report No. 8

Lace Banachek — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 04:16:53 -0400

The Boise State Broncos were a tad off their game last night, only scoring 19 points against the Oregon Ducks in the opening home game that was so hyped in the forums that have been bantering for about eight months.

Still, the Bronco defense held the Ducks to little productivity, as they were only able to score one touchdown and a two-point conversion—and that was largely a gift.

The Ducks were totally dominated by the Bronco defense, even their fans were crying in the stands (during the whole game). Well, the end justifies the means, does it not?

The Ducks showed that they meant business as their star running back LeGarrette Blount Sunday punched Bronco defensive player Byron Hout for tapping him on the shoulder after the game. Blount shoved his own teammates and was completely out of control.

These are the type of players who, upon going to the NFL with million dollar contracts, wind up doing severe damage to other people, animals, themselves, etc.

The announcer said Hout, No. 94, might have been taunting Blount, but still, the Sunday punch assault was uncalled for. That thug had to be dragged out of Bronco Stadium by the police. He was just embarrassed for running for a total of minus five yards on the night.

Blount had earlier spoke to his local media saying the Broncos were due an "ass whoopin." Well, he didn’t kick any ones butt, but he sure assaulted a player and advanced toward a fan or fans.

Had the police not been there to grab that thug, he no doubt would have attacked the Bronco fans, and then he might have not faired so well. He is a very lucky boy. Still, the Oregon Ducks are not responsible for what that fellow did, but they are responsible for what action is due to him.

The run of the mill penalty for troubled Duck players is a verbal nothing. Blount’s sanction, in order to be just, must be delivered by the PAC-10 commissioner. The announcer made a comment that he should probably be penalized for one game.

The Broncos' Titus Young was penalized for a season and is still not allowed to speak with media, blogger(s), etc. Titus has been so properly disciplined he doesn’t even answer e-mails (mine anyway).

Players like Blount must learn that when he advanced on fans, he crossed a line that should penalize him for the rest of the year. Last year, I watched a PAC-10 player push a coach because he got in his face. This conference gets some ding-hummers.

The PAC-10 is the one who will pay in the long run if they do nothing and continue to allow this type of action.

For as much media attention that the Ducks received complaining about the Broncos' aggressive play last year on the football field, one would imagine that the Ducks as a whole were not that aggressive, but apparently when star Ducky Blount made that threat, he was bound and determined to try to pull it off (even if it meant being done on national TV).

Bronco fans will want justice for this, and that’s another story. Go Broncos.

NY Giants' Backs Are Against the Wall

Lace Banachek — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 20:16:12 -0400

The New York Giants are a great team that drafted fairly well this year. They have even made significant additions via free agent traffic. Still, whom the Giants drafted and free agent addition has pretty much explained to them, as well their fan base, where they could have done better.

Giants quarterback Eli Manning has looked very good, and his two rookie wide receivers—Ramses Barden and Hakeem Nicks—both look good. These two should, by season's end, have marked their territory on the Giants' receiving corps. Look for the biggest display of talent though to come from Nicks (no later than midseason).

Nicks has had less time with his team due to lengthy contract negotiations. Yet, his play is almost as sufficient as any Giant receiver has displayed so far, including Steve Smith.

The injuries to drafted players have had people talking about the rigidness of training. Oh those poor boys, the NFL’s New York Giants have been too hard on them.

Well, it’s the NFL—it’s not high school or college. They have been lavishly compensated to play at the next level, a level that very few football players attain. If training is not rigid, there will not be another Super Bowl.

In order for the Giants to reach their goals it would appear they need another running back very badly. That is, if they are hoping to at least come close to last season’s averages, as well the playoffs. Their receivers will eventually gel and the end result should be awesome, though there are a couple of these that need to be trade bait.

The Giants' most evident need is the secondary: They just have not performed well, and the new additions do not appear to be better than the previous year's personnel. Of course, one cannot put a lot of stock in preseason games, but lesser teams have thrown easily on the secondary regardless of who was on the field.

The bottom line is the Giants are still a championship team and have the ability to come together at any time this season—and in the immediate future—but defense wins games. At end and backer the Giants look pretty good, but that’s it. Don't expect the Giants to win more than 10 games, which might be good enough to keep them ahead of Philadelphia in the conference race.

Although even that remains to be seen. Philly should be feeling pretty cocky if they have been paying any attention to their conference enemy. What can the Giants do regarding this quandary? A trade is in order, and the Giants should do this ASAP.

But that’s a whole nother story!

Boise State Broncos: 2009 BCS Busters, It Would Seem Most Likely So

Lace Banachek — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 02:08:28 -0400

A CBS commentator said of the BCS bowl busters he felt that the number 20 Brigham Young would get the nod over number 14 Boise State because of their schedule, and the fact that the Broncos only play Oregon.

Well he may be right if the Cougars can beat or play close the Oklahoma Sooners, and take it to the Florida State Seminoles. After that they have conference games with TCU who still looks tough and should take it to BYU and then they play Utah who is ranked 19th and highly overrated.

OK Cougars, after your early season thumping it looks like you might win the Utah game, the rest of the games are soft and I am not so sure that Brigham Young will recoup from the thumping that Oklahoma is going to give them.

The Mountain West is highly overrated. Sure they are better than good in places like TCU who is the cream of that crop regardless of what any others may think. For the most part TCU is still intact and they were very sound last year.

Utah is a shell of its former self and will diminish quickly in the ratings. Andy Dalton and company is head and shoulders above the Mountain West (this year anyway) and that begs to differ greatly the CBS viewpoint.

First of all Boise State does not just play one good team, the Broncos have to play a very explosive Tulsa team. Like the Broncos, the Golden Hurricane are known for great quarterback play; they generally put up a lot of points each game, and they have a couple of QB’s that can do just that.

Boise State also has to play Nevada, which is in their conference and is highly explosive them selves. In fact the wolf pack of Nevada have played the Broncos tight the last couple of years, and threatening to win each game.

Nevada leads off their season playing Notre Dame and the pack will win the opener. Fresno State plays Boise early and that team has a tendency to play very good at the beginning of the season.

The WAC is not a cupcake conference; they are getting better. Now maybe Fresno State, Louisiana Tech, and Hawaii do not create shivers for most teams but surely the thought of playing Nevada does.

Therefore the argument of who will be the true BCS buster must lay in the final rankings. That is why for the most part the Broncos are being lightly penciled in to return to the Fiesta Bowl and play the Oklahoma Sooners.

The Sooners are a great team and that would definitely be an honor for the Broncos to play Stoops’ team once again. It is going to be a long season. It looks like the Broncos will be 13-0 at the end, and be deservedly ranked; but that is speculation at this point.

The Broncos must prepare one game at a time, not taking any one team for granted, as is Bronco coach Petersen’s normal way of preparing his team. Look for an exciting season, one game at a time, and that is another story. Go Broncos

This article first published on Sept. 1, 2009, by Lace Banachek at http://broncobluereview.blogspot.com/

Looking Over The Boise Broncos With OBNUG: A Kevan Lee Diagnosis

Lace Banachek — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 02:41:41 -0400

OK Bronco fans, Banachek was out of state this weekend, and out of range for any polished scoop on the final scrimmage. Of course there was just one thing to do; no not ask those I know who were there (for they were probably having a blast and likely saw half the scrimmage at best), no not look for the Idaho Statesman’s Murphy report, but for the close up and personal revue there was truly just one choice to be made, and that was check out OBNUG. So “what did Kevan Lee and OBNUG have to say?” (http://www.obnug.com/2009/8/21/998247/boise-state-football-fall)

Kevan had fun as usual with a healthy look at Boise State. Still, Kevan had taken the time to dissect the most important Bronco positions, and a little more. The first area of review is Kevan’s look at the potential starting offensive line. Of course it’s hypothetical, but I like it:

RT Michael Ames
RG Kevin Sapien
C Thomas Byrd
LG Will Lawrence
LT Matt Slater

According to Kevan Lee, “I saw several holes and far fewer O-linemen in their own backfield.”

So what does that mean Bronco fans? What that most likely means is the offensive wall this season will produce. With Ames and Sapien on the right side, that combination is leaning towards very sound. Lawrence and Slater are also standing strong and beginning to open holes.

That is something that just didn’t happen much last season. The O-Line was good last year but greatly at pass protection. Bronco pass protection will not change this season but the run game just may, especially if the Broncos utilize Doug Martin at tail back.

Kevan said regarding Martin, “He hit holes with conviction and made sharp, decisive cuts. He carried tacklers down field. He fought for extra yards. He was everything that you would picture Martin to be, only better.”

People it does not get reported better than that. Thus, this writer is truly hoping to see the improved Martin in action. Do we dare imagine the Ducks will get to see Martin drag them to the goal line? I don’t know why not.

Kevan then went on to mention Justin Jungblut. Having watched Justin in the first scrimmage personally, and he looked tough then, it was exciting to read what Kevan had to say. However, what is there to really to note here? The guy is huge, tough, and fast.

Justin Jungblut is a monster at DE or in the defensive interior line. This young man appears to be heading for full-time play as a true freshman. Kevan say’s he looks like Byron Hout without the spin move. Albeit, offenses everywhere better hope Justin does not develop a spin move like Byron’s cause at 6’5 and solid bruiser that dude is going to score.

The key quote that Kevan made regarding Jerrell Gavins and Boise Bronco depth was the catalyst of this article, and with respect to the brilliant Mr. OBNUG (Kevan Lee) it is being used to close. Kevan said, “Gavins might be hovering near fourth on the depth chart at corner right now, but if our fourth string is as talented and quick as Gavins, the Broncos are in great shape.”

Hey! Banachek has been saying the Broncos are deep this season, and now the Bronco guru himself has stated the same. I’m not following that Kevan, except with a smile. Go Broncos.

This article was first published on Aug 25^th, 2009 by Lace Banachek at http://broncobluereview.blogspot.com/

Boise State Interior Defensive And O-Line are Solid: Broncos Have Depth

Lace Banachek — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:24:47 -0400

Season in and season out sports writer Brian Murphy of the Idaho Statesman never cease to undercut the Broncos. ESPN’s Herbstreit made a comment recently that the Broncos would go undefeated and straight to the BCS bowl.

Idaho Statesman reporter Murphy said nothing to that remark but countered Craig James' assessment saying he felt the problems for Boise State were deeper than just filling the shoes of the graduated Ian Johnson at running back.

He went on to argue the Boise State problem “is offensive line play, followed by interior defensive line play." Yes Murph, the Broncos young O line of last season has graduated one year older in experience and all the while going undefeated. Man that sounds awful?

Kellen Moore’s O Line did so well last year that Kellen felt obligated to buy those guys all dinner. Indeed this unit has its own identity; for whatever reason they are not overly swift at opening holes for the backs. Whoops! But what they do well is pass block.

These guys protected Kellen almost perfectly, all the while gaining experience. This seasons O Line will be just as good at pass blocking and with Titus Young, Austin Pettis, and Tyler Shoemaker as the first string wide out they will be more than enough for the extremely accurate quarterback.

Kellen’s offensive line will keep the majority of the bad guys off his back while he manipulates his foe to many Bronco scores. Well fans that covers only one half of the Bronco problems according to Murphy.

Murphy apparently believes the Boise State defensive interior line is not to swift, maybe even inferior. OK? Many of the interior line guys are unproven that is true, but not all. For example, Billy Winn and Chase Baker are two very sound DT’s.

In their relief at present due to recent injury are Sophomore J.P. Nisby and former defensive end Darren Koontz. Personally, Koontz has the presence and ability to start. He is a monster and looks the part at 6’3 and 262 pounds. Koontz presence in the Broncos first scrimmage was undeniable he looked good.

Another transplant at DT is Chuck Hayes who is 6’2" and 262-pound sophomore. Hayes could not play for the O-line because there is too much depth for that little guy? Oops! Hayes and Koontz will get better and better as the season goes on.

Albeit mid season the injured and disciplined Michael Atkinson (Canadian Bacon) as well as Greg Grimes will be back to give further depth at the DT position.

If the Broncos were desperate at DT they could easily start 6’5" true freshman Justin Jungblut who also looked good in the scrimmage with a quarterback sack.

Most sports writers and analyst might have guessed the weakness being linebacker not DT, as there were two of three linebacker spots to fill due to graduation. But Acrey and Mackey would seem to have the middle covered with Hunter White in relief of them.

The weak side backers are Aaron Tevis and J.C. Percy with redshirt freshman Tommy Smith in reserve. The middle will be very productive with Acrey and Mackey. As for the weak side Aaron Tevis would have been expected to own that position but J. C. Percy has shown the aggression to possibly be named starter.

Either of those kids will be just fine. Well, that leaves only the secondary to despair over.

And to douse those flames the Broncos have one of the best secondary in all college football with senior Kyle Wilson and junior Brandon Thompson at the corners, leaving another junior Jeron Johnson and sophomore George Iloka completing the secondary.

Kyle and Jeron are the notable stars there, but the Bronco secondary has depth. No they do not all hit as hard and play as physical as Jeron but some do come close.

The most surprising and welcome Bronco at the safety position is junior college transfer Winston Venable. Venable will see a lot of play this season from the nickel position because he plays physical and hits hard.

Jeron Johnson said, "Coach Choate, he's done something to them....I'm not sure who has the edge on the starting spots, but whoever ends up starting I feel comfortable with them out there."

The linebacker coach Choate says he will name his starters at the end of Fridays scrimmage and they will be the starters whether they have a bad game or not.

Call me silly, call me bias, you can call me whatever, but the Broncos are BCS bound this season. Boise State is deep enough at all positions to whether any storm. Go Broncos

Article originally posted by Lace Banachek on Aug. 18, 2009 at http://broncobluereview.blogspot.com/

It's the Same Ole Thing: Boise State Broncos Looking Perfect in the Air

Lace Banachek — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:39:42 -0400

Well, the first scrimmage has been played and for the most part there’s good news and bad news.

The good news is, if the Oregon Ducks new head coach Chip Kelley sent over a spy he’s probably feeling over confidant now, as the Boise State good news would be non-apparent to him.

The Broncos newly assigned running back coach might not be feeling so confident though as the Boise State run game was totally non existent responding with a net gain of –4 yards on 43 carries.

But the good news to that is Jeremy Avery did not play in the scrimmage. Also, 12 of those carries were from the four quarterbacks, which also netted a –4 yards per carry.

Oh Nelly?

One of the backs fared well though, Jarvis Hodge, he was the only back to net over two yards, he carried just once for a 10-yard gain. Indeed, the defense appeared to be pretty much where they were last season (running game wise).

In case anyone forgot last season the defense pretty much shut down everyone's run game, and that’s the good news as many of those players are gone and the end result is still the same.

The defense is getting the job done. Besides, just because the run game didn’t produce good news (a lot of yards) is not the making of bad news, not for the Broncos anyway.

The bad news is the defensive secondary did not look too sweet, against Kellen Moore anyway. Kellen was near perfect only missing on five throws with no turnovers, and that’s good news.

Kellen seemed even “Moore” confidant than last season and Bronco fans are going to love the passing game.

The bad news is if you’re a Geraldo Hiwat fan and had hopes of watching that amazing young man sprint down the sidelines for a TD this season it’s not happening. Hiwat for sure will be redshirting. He just could not seem to bring home the baby. He had passes so well thrown they bounced off of him each and every time.

So, will Kirby Moore be playing the true freshman role once his foot is healed? Many believe he will, but this writer tends to think otherwise, as his money is on Aaron Burks.

Burks reeled in seven catches for 90 yards, the most catches of any receiver yesterday. This kid was a find. Indeed the passing game is the Bronco baby, it has not been hurt by graduation, and in fact it seems better—if that is possible considering who all left the program.

The Bronco passing game displayed 11 different receivers catching 37 passes for 552 total yards, which included a 66 yarder by tight end Kyle Efaw. Titus Young, Austin Pettis, Tyler Shoemaker, and Kyle Efaw were brilliant, and that’s the good news.

Austin caught a sweet alley-oop in the end zone for a TD, and if that reception had been in the Taco Bell Arena Pettis might have been confused for Michael Jordan with that in the air spin. Bronco fans it just does not get better than this.

Austin is a stud: he just keeps getting better. Titus is also a force, he is amazingly quick, he has great hands, and he just gets it done. But talk about getting it done, Shoemaker’s showing was excellent yesterday. The “Shoe” caught 6 for nearly 120 yards, the most yards of any receiver.

All in all, the passing game was solid, and even Potter and Burroughs came through with eight catches. OK the rest of the scrimmage looked a little rough and so there are things to work on—But all in all not that much!

We will glance at the D in Sundays article. A couple of those guys played well today and we will highlight them in conjunction with how they fit in the rotation. And that’s another story.

Go Broncos!

Boise State Bronco Football: It's Not All About Playing the Oregon Ducks

Lace Banachek — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:31:57 -0400

In a little over three weeks from tonight the second part of the one and one between the Oregon Ducks and this time around home team Boise State Broncos will be taking place.

Both football teams will be battling with all they have—for Oregon it's about pride and humiliation, as the Oregon quarterback Masoli made it known that he was embarrassed losing the first time around (last season) to the Broncos at their home field in Eugene.

Their quarterback is not the only one whining, their running back Blount has been doing his share of talking as well, that is when he wasn’t being sent to the corner for not attending team meetings and putting on a few extra pounds.

But for the Broncos, winning against the Ducks is important too, but not more so than defeating Fresno State, Tulsa, La Tech, or Nevada Reno.

The goal of any Bronco player this year is to improve his quality of play and help the team in any way they can. Bronco players are not all about Oregon. The Ducks are just one team. The Broncos have beaten better teams and they have lost to inferior teams (but not recently).

It will be interesting watching the Broncos this season as they travel to diverse parts of the country: California, Ohio, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Hawaii to name a few.

But in so doing, Boise State will be placing one of the most talented teams they have ever had on the field.

"One would think the Oregon Ducks and their fans would admire the Broncos for their accomplishments and see them as an equal instead of losing to Boise State in humiliation."

My god, the Broncos hold the best win loss percentage of any junior college football program prior to their climb to the Big Sky winning national titles at both levels along the way.

It was because of Bronco success in junior college and in the Big Sky that they were accepted to join Division 1-A WAC and since that day the Broncos have dominated the conference every season they were eligible but one.

The Broncos always play hard-fought football. Albeit, the two teams that the Broncos play this season that bring concern to this writer are Bowling Green and Tulsa. Too much has been said about Oregon, Fresno, and Nevada.

Last season Bowling Green played the Broncos close and on the Blue and they still have the same quarterback, but a different coach (maybe that’s a plus for them)?

Then there is Tulsa, a team that is used to putting up big numbers; the Broncos are familiar with teams like that, Boise State will be closing out the season against a team just like Tulsa, in Nevada. The Broncos will be ready.

This will be another interesting year for Bronco fans and there are a lot of important games ahead. Bronco players will defend each and every game this season with the same importance as they afford their first opponent, and their second Miami of Ohio.

Well fans that’s another story—Go Broncos

Originally posted by Lace Banachek on August 8, 2009 at: http://broncobluereview.blogspot.com

Bronco Passing Game: Boise State Will Be Better Than Their Fans Imagine

Lace Banachek — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 12:45:15 -0400

Bronco fans already know what the 6’3 Austin Pettis can do.

Austin made 49 catches last season and scoring nine times. With Childs, Perretta, and Hawkins gone Kellen Moore is not saying oh momma what am I gonna do.

He knows all to well what he’s gonna do.

Kellen knows that he has the sure handed Pettis, and the speedster Titus Young; who hauled in a sweet 50 yard TD over Kyle Wilson during today’s second practice session.

Rarely used last season due to all the talent was Tyler Shoemaker.

Tyler has good hands and descent speed. He runs routes effectively and should do quite well.

The tight ends for Boise State will do fine. Kyle Efaw 6’4, Tommy Gallarda 6’5, and Chandler Koch 6’3 will utilize their size accomplishing feats.

Gallarda is a great blocker and Efaw has a solid pair of hands. Chandler on the other hand is expected to do great things.

There is also Mitch Burroughs and Chris Potter, these two will see special teams kick returns, and of course fourth quarter play this 2009 season but they will contribute, both are plenty fast.

There has been a slight question to the loss of Ian Johnson from the backfield as he contributed to the passing game regularly and sufficiently. Last season he hauled in 22 passes.

However, lest the fans forget this seasons starting running back Jeremy Avery who was the Broncos second leading rusher and second on the team in all-purpose yards (over 1,000) hauled in 16 passes for 226 yards.

The Broncos are not losing a thing (only fond memories), but then they are gaining some new ones.

This season is set for new thrills. Kellen’s going deep and Titus, Pettis, and Shoe will take care of business there. Look for the tight ends and Avery to get in the action as well. This will be a big scoring season—Go Broncos

Originally posted August 6, 2009 by Lace Banachek at http://broncobluereview.blogspot.com/

New York Giants are Ready for the 2009 Season

Lace Banachek — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:40:39 -0400

The New York Giants' former wideouts Burress and Toomer are occupied. Burress is occupied with the court system and he has a due date in September and he will most likely not be able to shirk from this one.

As for Toomer, he is with his new team the Kansas City Chiefs, which is an excellent place for Amani to be at this point in his career. Amani is the veteran receiver in KC, and will be honored as such, as the majority of Chiefs receivers are young and inexperienced (at least to Amani’s standards). For sure those young guys will benefit greatly having him with the organization.

Also the Giants can finally rest after coming to terms with Hakeem Nicks and Eli Manning. It was scary for the fans for they knew that the Giants did not want to lose either of these individuals.

Eli is the Giant QB and although they have a competent backup in David Carr, he is no Eli Manning. Manning will be even more dangerous a passer when they are playing in the new stadium.

He will no longer be battling the terrific wind differential as he had the past four years. Even with the opposing winds Eli was still able to pump out 3,000 yards a season and more touchdowns than interceptions, including a super bowl victory a couple years back.

Giant fans are looking for great things from Eli. Giant fans are also looking for great things from Hakeem Nicks. Sure, Hakeem is an untested rookie but he has a tremendous upside, he has great hands, speed, and vision.

Teams will not be able to double team him and get away with it either as Steve Smith will be all over the field and he has the best hands of any Giant receivers. Plus Boss is back and Tyree less anyone forget just how big a threat he is.

Then there is the other untested wide out Ramses Barden. Ramses is huge, big hands, big body, and big heart. He has the athleticism of a wide out and the strength and size of a tight end.

This new action for the Giant offense plus some new faces and old faces (all pro bowl types) connecting for the defense has many Giant fans thinking super bowl. Why not this could be the most explosive offense (receiver-wise) the Giants have tabled in many years.

It’s for sure looking interesting and that’s another story.

In the Zone with Kellen Moore: One on One with the Boise State QB

Lace Banachek — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:55:28 -0400

Recently Kellen Moore, the cool and efficient quarterback for the Boise State Broncos football program, spoke to the Bronco Blue Review and its creator, Lace Banachek. Kellen addressed issues on the coming year, some personal information, and what is like to be a Bronco.

The Interview

Kellen Moore was asked regarding the pressure of another undefeated season, and about the inner strength that keeps him so cool, as well as his expectations of the coming season. Kellen responded by saying, “The pressure is what makes it fun, that’s why you play the game, to be in a critical situation where you have to execute. As far as next season, we just have to take it one game at a time. I just want to be more efficient.”

Kellen was then asked regarding his ability to operate under center and the run game for this coming season, and whether a run game would make his life as quarterback less stressful.

Kellen said, “As far as playing under center, I don’t think it will make much of a difference. I am good with it, we will still be mixing it up back and forth from shotgun and under center. The running game will come along, we got a lot of guys back from last year that now have that year of experience. A solid running game is great because then you can get the play action pass off of it and keep a balanced attack.”

Also, Kellen was asked how he felt making the Broncos football team, and if there were any special moments from his freshman year that stood out to him. He was also asked why he felt the need to take extra time with his fans, for example, at the close of the Blue and Orange game, posing in photos and signing autographs even when he was being asked to rush over for the media.

Kellen said, “My redshirt year was just a great opportunity to get used to how things worked. I was able to learn the offense, and just understand how the program worked as far as workouts and practices. I think the fans are awesome here. That’s what makes things fun here. It’s important to thank them in any way possible, and spend some time with them."

Kellen was then asked about his parents and whether or not they will be moving to Boise, where his father could continue coaching. He was also asked regarding his brother Kirby and whether or not he would be redshirting.

Kellen comments to these questions showed his team-first attitude. Kellen's response was, “My parents are staying in Prosser, my dad is a teacher and my mom is a elementary principal. I think my brother will try to learn everything he possibly can and let the decision up to the coaches. I think there are advantages to both.”

Kellen was then asked if he felt the Broncos were capable of dominating the WAC and winning a BCS Bowl. Kellen’s answer really showed the quality of his respect for the players, coaches, and his conference as he responded saying, “We have tons of talent on this team but so does everyone else in college football. I think it will come down to preparation and just taking it game by game.”

Kellen then responded to questions regarding his young receiving corps and whether or not he dreamt, just a tad, about how good they might be over the next couple of years. Kellen said, “We have an awesome wide receiver and tight ends group...It’ll be great that we can all gel together for the next two years.”

Kellen was further asked if was planning on keeping in touch with some of those who graduated in his freshman year like Ian Johnson or Vinny Perretta. Kellen said that he stays in touch with Bush Hamdan, and went on to say that Bush was very helpful to him his freshman year.

Lastly, Kellen was asked about his schedule and the quality of it—as this writer has said, many people don't highly regard the Broncos' schedule—and whether teams like Cal Davis, Tulsa, and Bowling Green would be pushovers. He was also asked if he planned to put on an aerial circus on for the fans this season, especially Bowling Green, which played the Broncos pretty close last season, and Tulsa, which is used to putting mammoth points on the board.

Kellen closed the interview by saying, "I think our schedule is a tricky one because we travel so much this year. We are playing all over the country this year and each game will bring a different challenge. Bowling Green has a new staff, so it’s a real unknown. Two years ago, they had a very good team and the quarterback is still there. Tulsa has had a very potent offense and has been very successful for quite a few years. As a quarterback you always want to throw the ball around but the offense is going to be more efficient when we have a balanced attack."

It was a real pleasure to have this moment to sit down with Kellen.

Kellen Moore’s responsibility leading a top 25-rated college football team has not gone to his head. In fact, this writer found Kellen to be totally respectful of his opponent, regardless of whoever it is.

There is no sign of arrogance with this young man. He seems to try to make time for his fan, whether that is taking photo with a child, college peer, teammates past and present, or even a local writer.

Most important, Kellen’s respect for Boise State University and his coaches was evident in every aspect of the interview. He answered questions as completely as he could without overstepping his boundaries, and with the most respect he could muster.

It was, without a doubt, one of the finest interviews this writer has taken part in. Bronco fans look forward to the coming season and to another page from the book of Kellen Moore artistry. Go Broncos!

Originally posted on August 4, 2009 by Lace Banachek at Bronco Blue Review.

SPECIAL REPORT************OBNUG-SIGHTING*************BANACHEK ON OBNUG

Kevan, the creator of OBNUG, Boise Idaho's rowdy, totally biased, but heavenly entertaining Bronco Football reporting site has offered Banachek to be part of his weekly format by offering up a couple lines a week called "Words of wisdom by Lace Banachek."

You can read his "Words of wisdom" here.

Boise State AD Getting All Credit for the 2010 Game with Virginia Tech?

Lace Banachek — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:52:07 -0400

Well it’s not like Bleymaier had nothing to do with the game, but just exactly what he did seems questionable following Chad Cripes report released today in the Friday issue of the Boise Statesman.

According to Cripe’s article, Mr. Zack Bolno, the executive director of communications for the NFL’s Washington Redskins stated, “We approached Virginia Tech about playing a major opponent,” ... “As we began to look for an opponent, we decided to pursue Boise State. They were our No. 1 choice.”

In other words Zack Bolno sought out Virginia Tech and Boise State, and as for the Oct. 2, 2010 game being played at FedEx Field that had nothing to do with Bleymaier or the VT rep. As the Redskins deserve all the credit for seeking both teams.

OK then, having said that, instead of Gene Bleymaier receiving all the “at a boys” for arranging this game, it looks like he should be credited with the financial end alone, which is awesome (if Gene’s responsible for that payout he did one heck of a job [If he was?]).

Cripe also said WAC commissioner Karl Benson guessed the 2010 game might be the single most paid out for any collegiate game to date ($1.25 mil.) The amount VT is getting to play the Broncos is not being released by the Redskins, as of yet.

The bottom line here is Bronco fans are excited that Mr. Zack Bolno and his Redskin organization thought the Boise State and Virginia Tech football teams were the two best to kick off what they hope to be a long series of quality college football games.

According to Cripe, Bolno said, “We’re working on securing great college football games for the D.C. metropolitan area,” Bolno said.

Oh well Bronco fans, Bleymaier still has to lock down a guarantee game for the 2011 season. Unless someone seeks out the Broncos (once again) for the 2011 vacancy, Gene can show once and for all his merits for bringing quality games for the Boise State Bronco schedules.

Come on Bleymaier strike while the iron is hot. Go get Michigan, Kentucky, Arkansas, Oklahoma State, or even the Washington Huskies, one more time (in Seattle). Bronco fans are waiting and hoping and that’s another story.

Originally posted by Lace Banachek on July 24, 2009 at http://broncobluereview.blogspot.com/

The 2010 Bronco Schedule Is Final: Boise State And Virginia Tech Is On

Lace Banachek — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 22:31:12 -0400

Its official: Boise State and Virginia Tech will meet. The game is scheduled for October 2, 2010 at FedEx Field In Landover, Md.

The Broncos receive $1.25 million for the game, with the television rights belonging to the ACC (whatever that entails).

For sure, Bronco fans will do whatever it takes to travel and support Boise State. The Bronco fan base will be there in droves. All the east coast Broncos will have the opportunity to witness a live game.

How exciting is that?

The rest of the Bronco fans are in for a few fun-filled days of travel and there is still one year to free up schedules, hire a few extra peoples, and make it happen.

This no doubt will be a landmark game for Boise State; the Broncos will play a great team on one of the finest NFL fields in the country. FedEx Field seats over 90 thousand screaming, pom-pom waiving, beer drinking, hot dog eating, and football loving fans.

The tailgating will be story itself. Go Broncos.

Originally posted by Lace Banachek on July 23, 2009 at http://broncobluereview.blogspot.com/

Boise State Defensive Tackle Arrested: Will Bacon Play in Bronco Opener?

Lace Banachek — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 23:45:02 -0400

Michael “Canadian Bacon” Atkinson was the talk of last season's Bronco redshirt squad as he dominated at every given opportunity, being tagged as redshirt player of the year. With the graduation of a few good defensive stars, i.e., Kyle Gingg, it was ever so important for someone or two, if you will, to step up and make their presence known.

Well, a couple of defensive performers have done just that. Walk-on J.C. Percy and the 320-pound defensive tackle Canadian Bacon. Well, barring unforeseen circumstance, J.C. will be game ready, but whether Bacon will be is now up to coach Pete.

In the early morning hours this July 22, 20-year-old Michael was arrested for a DUI and leaving the scene of an accident. Bacon struck a barrier and fled when he noticed a witness approach. Michael was found a few blocks away from where he left the car he was driving at Vista and Canal.

Atkinson was arrested, booked, and within a few hours released from jail. The damage has been done. The jokes of Atkinson wearing all orange jumpsuits have been made. But all joking aside, this was a serious problem—not for the courts, for both charges are misdemeanors.

Albeit, Bronco fans know that their coach, Chris Petersen, will not take this lightly. Regardless of how well coach appreciates the talents of players he is known to discipline players not allowing them to play in important games, suspending players up to a season, and dismissing players altogether.

Bronco fans also know that Chris Petersen will not give any more information on this situation than he feels is necessary. What is highly expected is that Bacon will not be allowed to play in the season opener with the Ducks of Oregon (A game where his presence is extremely needed).

The loss of a quality player against a quality team like the Ducks is obviously damaging. One would hope that these young kids who are fortunate enough to win scholarships would feel indebted to their team (team first attitude) and six weeks from game day they would be practicing extremely hard to better their play not doing behavior that demotes their play.

Bronco fans will forgive you Michael (cause the only one you hurt was yourself), take your discipline (whether one game or one season), forgive yourself (because that’s healthy), and get on to being a Bronco ('cause Bronco fans really like you and you have potential for a good future).

Go Broncos.