BSU Broncos and TCU Horned Frogs An Analysis: Who Wins the Poinsettia Bowl?

Recently I was asked what would it take for Boise State to remain undefeated against Texas Christian in this year’s Poinsettia Bowl? The answer to the question is a lot. It will take a lot from Boise State, but not more then they are capable to deliver.

For Boise State to win this Poinsettia Bowl Kellen Moore will have to remain composed, scout the field for open men, and get them the ball.

Kellen Moore is the most composed quarterback I have seen plays the game in years. BSU’s Kellen Moore has thrown for 3529 yards (402-275-10) at 70 percemt, and they have not lost yet.

Moore will be the best quarterback that TCU has played against this year other than Oklahoma’s. TCU lost that game 35 to 10. They would only lose once more all year. Still, it will take a total collapse of the BSU offensive line to pressure Moore.  

The TCU pass rushers will attempt to collapse the BSU offensive line. Defensive End Jerry Hughes, Tackle Cody Moore, and Line backer Jason Phillips will be TCU’s major threat to take Kellen Moore out of his game.

However, Boise State’s offensive line pass-protects much better then they open holes for their backs. 

That said; look for Moore to penetrate the whole field throwing to his running backs, tight ends, and wide receivers. BSU has thrown to 20 different receivers this year. Moore’s job will be to find somebody to pass to, as he is not a threat to run. 

TCU on the other hand is a running team, sure they pass, and do so well, but their prowess is running the ball.

TCU quarterback Andy Dalton is the teams duel threat he passes the ball at a 59 percent clip, which keeps defenses honest. Dalton has accumulated 358 net yards as the teams 5th leading rusher.

Dalton, ace running backs Joseph Turner, Aaron Brown, Ryan Christian and Marcus Jackson (who sees time at QB) operate the option.

Dalton and Jackson utilize the option well, and their prime target, when they don’t run, is standout wide receiver Jimmy Young.

Young has amassed 926 yards on the season via his steady hands and quick feet. BSU defensive backs Wilson, Johnson, Iloka, and Powers, on the other hand, have been extremely successful guarding multi-talented receivers like Young. 

The Boise State running game most likely will be hugely affected due to the power of the TCU defensive line. Teams just do not run against TCU. TCU boasts the nations best rushing defense.

BSU’s Ian Johnson and Jeremy Avery will be sorely tested. However, Moore’s ability to pass efficiently should allow the speedy BSU backs to sneak through a whole or two, but not many. 

TCU is second in the nation in scoring defense. That tells me that TCU is pretty tough in the red zone. So look for Childs, Perretta, and Hawkins to bust a long one or three. Boise State should do pretty good against the TCU rush. 

The key for TCU will be whether Dalton is able to maintain his game against the BSU rush?

Defensive ends Mike T. Williams, Ryan Winterswyk, and Byron Hout, these three have dominated teams offenses all year, causing sacks, fumbles, interceptions, and loss of yards. 

The bottom line is, if the BSU defense maintains its continuity, and their offense, i.e., Moore remains efficient, that is what will be needed for BSU to stay undefeated.  This game will be the Bronco’s greatest test of the year bar none.

The TCU Horned Frogs are not to be taken lightly. They are a great team.