Boise State Broncos Penalized by WAC for Knockout Hit Against Oregon State

The Western Athletic Conference today took the rare action of suspending Bosie State Bronco linebacker, Winston Venable for unsportsmanlike conduct stemming from a helmet-to-helmet hit that left an Oregon State player motionless and unconscious on the field.

In subsequent plays, Venable was seen to be leading with his helmet and was called for a personal foul. The one-game suspension was reduced to a half game after a review by a WAC committee.

This is the second significant action taken against Boise State in the past three seasons for unsportsmanlike conduct. In 2008, Bronco Jeron Johnson was ejected from a game against Oregon for a helmet-to-helmet hit. Three Oregon players left that game due to injuries sustained in questionable plays including then-quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, who suffered a concussion.

In 2009, Venable was penalized for a helmet-to-helmet hit delivered against a Fresno State quarterback.

Also in 2009, a BSU player, Byron Hout, was punched by Oregon running back LeGarrett Blount after taunting him. Hout was suspended for one game by coach Chris Peterson.

Today's suspension and the publicity the incident has received could not be worse for the Broncos, who are hoping that an undefeated season will lead to an opportunity to play for the national championship.

An article appearing in the Idaho Statesman just days before the game against Oregon State described Boise's love of "smash mouth football."