The college football season is heating up, and two teams looking to make a statement are the Boise State Broncos and the Virginia Tech Hokies. On September 17th, these two powerhouses will clash in a highly anticipated matchup that promises to deliver excitement and drama. In this article, we'll dive into the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, analyze their past performances, and provide an in-depth preview of the upcoming game.
Boise State Broncos Preview
The Boise State Broncos have been a dominant force in the Mountain West Conference, with a strong reputation for producing high-scoring offenses and stingy defenses. Led by head coach Andy Avalos, the Broncos are looking to build on their successful 2020 season, where they finished with a 7-1 record and a Fiesta Bowl victory.
Quarterback Hank Bachmeier returns as the starter, and he's expected to lead the Broncos' high-powered offense. Bachmeier threw for over 1,900 yards and 16 touchdowns last season, with a completion percentage of 63.5%. He'll be joined by a talented group of wide receivers, including Khalil Shakir and Stefan Cobbs, who combined for over 1,000 receiving yards in 2020.
On defense, the Broncos boast a strong front seven, led by defensive end Shane Irwin and linebacker Riley Whimpey. Irwin recorded 6.5 sacks last season, while Whimpey finished with 67 tackles and 2 interceptions.
Strengths:
- High-powered offense with a talented quarterback and receiving corps
- Strong front seven on defense, with a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers
- Special teams unit that consistently produces big plays and good field position
Weaknesses:
- Defensive secondary that struggled with consistency last season
- Inexperience on the offensive line, with several new starters
Virginia Tech Hokies Preview
The Virginia Tech Hokies are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2020 season, where they finished with a 5-6 record and missed out on a bowl game. Head coach Justin Fuente is entering his sixth season at the helm, and he's under pressure to deliver a winning season.
Quarterback Braxton Burmeister returns as the starter, and he's expected to lead the Hokies' offense. Burmeister threw for over 1,000 yards and 5 touchdowns last season, with a completion percentage of 55.6%. He'll be joined by a talented group of running backs, including Raheem Blackshear and Jalen Holston, who combined for over 1,000 rushing yards in 2020.
On defense, the Hokies boast a strong secondary, led by cornerback Jermaine Waller and safety Keonta Jenkins. Waller recorded 2 interceptions last season, while Jenkins finished with 64 tackles and 1 sack.
Strengths:
- Talented secondary on defense, with a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers
- Strong running game, with a deep group of talented running backs
- Special teams unit that consistently produces big plays and good field position
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent quarterback play, with Braxton Burmeister struggling with accuracy and decision-making at times
- Defensive front seven that struggled with consistency last season
Game Preview
When the Boise State Broncos and Virginia Tech Hokies take the field on September 17th, it promises to be a thrilling matchup. Both teams have the potential to put up big numbers on offense, with the Broncos' high-powered attack facing off against the Hokies' stingy secondary.
On defense, the Broncos will look to contain the Hokies' running game, which could be a challenge given the depth and talent of Virginia Tech's backfield. Meanwhile, the Hokies will need to find ways to pressure Boise State quarterback Hank Bachmeier, who has the ability to make plays with his legs and arm.
In the end, this game could come down to which team can establish the run and control the clock. The Hokies have the talent and depth to do just that, but the Broncos have the speed and athleticism to keep up with Virginia Tech's running game.
Prediction: Boise State 31, Virginia Tech 24
Gallery of Boise State vs Virginia Tech Game
What time does the Boise State vs Virginia Tech game start?
+The game is scheduled to start at 12:00 PM ET on September 17th.
Where can I watch the Boise State vs Virginia Tech game?
+The game will be broadcast on ESPN and can be streamed online through the ESPN app.
What are the odds for the Boise State vs Virginia Tech game?
+Boise State is currently favored by 7 points, with a moneyline of -250.