The Boise State Broncos are gearing up for the 2026 football season, and a recent analysis sheds light on their roster and strategic approach. Known for their physical style of play, Boise State has consistently focused on dominating the line of scrimmage, a tactic that has been pivotal in their success over the years. This approach has been especially pronounced since Coach Danielson took over in mid-2023, steering the team towards a more straightforward, run-first offensive strategy.
Historically, Boise State has been characterized by its innovative play-calling, but recent trends indicate a shift towards a more traditional style. The Broncos have run significantly fewer trick plays compared to the median in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Instead, their offensive game plan emphasizes a strong running game, leveraging the power of their offensive line and a talented group of running backs. This 'bully ball' philosophy has allowed them to control games, particularly when they can establish dominance at the line of scrimmage.
In the past three seasons, Boise State has maintained a high rush rate, particularly on first and second downs. Their statistics show that they have rushed on at least 57% of first downs and maintained a rush rate of over 70% on second and short situations. This commitment to the run game has been a double-edged sword; while it can lead to success when they are ahead of the chains, it also exposes weaknesses when they fall behind, as their passing efficiency has suffered in those scenarios.
The returning quarterback, #4 Madsen, has been a key player for the Broncos. After sharing time in a two-quarterback system in 2023, Madsen has emerged as the preferred passer. However, his performance has fluctuated, particularly after an injury in 2025 that sidelined him for part of the season. His ability to push the ball downfield will be critical as Boise State looks to improve its passing game, which has seen a decline in efficiency. The competition for the starting role will also include backup #14 Cutforth, who struggled to replicate Madsen's deep-ball capabilities.
In the backfield, Boise State is set to return both of their leading running backs from 2025, #26 Gaines and #0 Riley. Gaines has demonstrated impressive per-carry success, while Riley's performance has been less consistent. The effectiveness of the running game will depend heavily on the offensive line's ability to create openings, a challenge they faced last season against tougher defenses.
Another area of focus will be the wide receiver corps, which has struggled in recent years due to a lack of height and depth. With the departure of key players, the Broncos will rely on returning players like Latrell Caples and new faces to step up. The coaching staff's decisions regarding player positioning and target distribution will be crucial for the passing game to thrive.
Defensively, Boise State has undergone a transformation with a shift to a 4-2-5 scheme under Coach Danielson. This change has brought about a new focus on pass coverage and tackling, although the team lost several key players from the defensive front. The continuity in the defensive line, with returning starters, will be essential as they aim to balance their rush and pass defense effectively.
As the 2026 season approaches, Boise State's strategy will hinge on their ability to dominate the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. Their success will depend on the performance of key players, the effectiveness of their offensive line, and the ability to adapt to the challenges posed by their opponents. With a mix of returning talent and new recruits, the Broncos are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
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