Boise State Spring Game: Freshman QB Southwick, Bronco Defense Shine

It was a beautiful afternoon for Boise State's spring football game, with sunny skies and temperatures in the 70's. The brightest shine though was provided by both the defense and freshman quarterback Joe Southwick.

The game format was the BSU offense against the Bronco defense. In the end, the battle was won by the defense, by stopping a tie-breaking two-point conversion attempt, and winning 30-28.

The Boise State offense had struggled for most of the spring practice, but freshman quarterback Joe Southwick put some spark into the game, leading the offense to four straight second-half scoring drives that eventually tied the game near the end of regulation.

Southwick connected with fellow freshman Aaron Burks five times for 113 yards and a touchdown. He was 10 of 15 on the day for a total of 191 yards. 

Southwick is a 6ft. 1in. former first team all-state quarterback from San Ramon Valley High School in Danville, Cal. His performance during the spring practice and in the spring game gives him a real shot at being the backup quarterback to All-American Kellen Moore for the 2010 season.

Moore had an off day by his standards. One of the best quarterbacks in college football last year was 9 of 19 including two interceptions. During the 2009 season, Moore threw only 3 interceptions while connecting for 39 touchdowns.

Moore's tough day can be blamed on an outstanding performance by the Bronco defense. Interceptions by nickel back Winston Venable and cornerback Ebo Makinde turned Moore's day from fair to not so good.

Adding to the defensive strong showing, was a sensational show of talent by junior defensive end Jarrell Root. Root helped stop the Bronco offense with 3.5 sacks, capping off what has been a very impressive spring for the 6ft. 3in., 259lbs. DE from Boise's Capital High School.

The Bronco's will kickoff the 2010 season in Landover, Maryland at Fed Ex Field against Virginia Tech. Both teams are expected to be ranked in the top five in the preseason polls.