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Broncos Unveil Fresh Backfield in Tampa Showdown
No. 25 Boise State kicks off its season as the Boise State Broncos take on the South Florida Bulls in their first regular-season meeting ever. Fresh off of lockdown scrimmages, expect the Broncos to lean heavily on their new one-two punch in the backfield—Malik Sherrod and redshirt freshman Sire Gaines—as they transition after Ashton Jeanty’s departure to the NFL. Meanwhile, USF brings budding talent and high stakes to Raymond James Stadium.
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Opening Odds & Context
- Line: Boise State favored by around –6
- Total (O/U): ~63.5 points
- Game Time: Thursday night in Tampa, Florida (prime-time exposure on ESPN)
- Key Storylines: Boise State’s new rushing tandem, transitioning offense, hostile Gulf-Coast conditions.
- USF’s Challenge: Home opener, QB Byrum Brown’s return, heavy season opener slate.
Boise State Can Win If…
- Port in the backfield holds up — Sherrod’s experience and Gaines’ explosive freshness must complement each other to keep the ground game alive.
- Maddux Madsen remains efficient. The 2024 leader in passing saw over 3,000 yards—he must stay disciplined to open up the field.(/storage/user?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
- Team adapts quickly to a tough environment. Coach Danielson emphasizes being “battle-prepared” for heat, noise, and atmosphere.
“We will run the football here… and stop the run. That’s championship football,” said Coach Danielson.
USF Can Win If…
- Byrum Brown regains top form. Two years ago he threw for over 3,000 yards and ran for over 800—his health and timing will be a game-changer.
- Offensive line protects well. With four experienced starters returning, they must neutralize Boise State’s front seven.
- They capture energy in the opener. A “gauntlet schedule” sees Boise State first, then Florida and Miami—making this home opener pivotal.
“Boise State has to come to Tampa… for us to take the next step, we’ve got to win a marquee game,” emphasized Coach Alex Golesh.
Key College Football Betting Trends
| Category | Boise State | South Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Running Game | New duo replacing Jeanty’s explosive legacy | QBs strong, but offense evolving |
| Quarterback Impact | Madsen effective with accuracy and poise | Brown’s return crucial after injury |
| Environmental Challenge | Must adapt to Tampa heat and crowd | Home road, but pressure is high |
| Season Stakes | Final MWC season before Pac-12 entry | Early marquee test vs top-tier opponent |
The Lean
Boise State’s depth, coaching consistency, and visible offensive cohesion give them a discernible edge. Expect them to flex their identity while managing a tough road test.
- Projected Score: Boise State 34, USF 24
- Pick: Boise State Moneyline
- Total Lean: Under 63.5 — error turnover and defense keep offense contained.
Gather insights into rich matchups like this every week at our College Football Previews page.
