Boise State Running Backs: A Legacy of Success and Dominance

Introduction

The Boise State Broncos football program has long been known for its exceptional running game and standout running backs. Boise State has produced numerous talented running backs who have made significant contributions to the team's success and left an indelible mark on the college football landscape. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the legacy of Boise State running backs, highlighting their accomplishments, strategies, and the impact they have had on the program.

Boise State Running Back Legacy

The tradition of strong running backs at Boise State began in the early 2000s with the emergence of Ian Johnson. Johnson set numerous records during his time with the Broncos, including becoming the school's all-time leading rusher. He earned consensus All-America honors and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy in 2006.

Following Johnson's departure, Doug Martin took over as the featured running back for Boise State. Martin rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons with the Broncos and was named the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year in 2011. He was selected in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

In recent years, Boise State has continued to produce top-tier running backs. Jay Ajayi, Jeremy McNichols, and Alexander Mattison have all rushed for over 1,000 yards in a single season and earned All-Mountain West honors. Mattison was named the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year in 2018 and was a Consensus First Team All-American.

Strategies for Success

The success of Boise State running backs can be attributed to a combination of factors, including:

• Strong Offensive Line: The Broncos have consistently featured one of the top offensive lines in the country, which has provided running backs with excellent blocking and created large running lanes.
• Physicality: Boise State running backs have been known for their toughness and physicality. They are often able to break tackles and gain extra yards after contact.
• Versatility: Boise State running backs are not only effective as ball carriers but also contribute in the passing game. They are often utilized as receivers out of the backfield, which adds another dimension to the Broncos' offense.
• Play-Action Passing: Boise State's offense often relies on play-action passing, which allows running backs to get involved in the passing game and create mismatches against opposing defenses.

Benefits of a Strong Running Game

A strong running game provides numerous benefits for the Boise State football team:

• Control of the Clock: A productive running game allows Boise State to control the clock and keep its defense fresh. This is especially important in close games or when the Broncos need to run out the clock at the end of a game.
• Balance on Offense: A strong running game helps to balance the offense and prevent defenses from focusing solely on the passing game. This makes it more difficult for opponents to predict what Boise State is going to do on offense.
• Creating Scoring Opportunities: A running game can create scoring opportunities by gashing opponents for big gains and setting up the Broncos' passing game. This forces defenses to respect the run, which opens up play-action pass plays and other opportunities for Boise State to score points.

Step-by-Step Approach for Boise State Running Backs

To become a successful running back at Boise State, players must follow a step-by-step approach:

Step 1: Work Hard

First and foremost, a successful running back at Boise State must be willing to put in the work. This includes working hard in the weight room, on the field, and in the classroom. It also means being disciplined with diet and nutrition.

Step 2: Learn the Playbook

A Boise State running back must have a deep understanding of the playbook and be able to execute all of the plays correctly. This requires studying and repetition.

Step 3: Develop Good Vision and Field Awareness

A running back must have good vision and field awareness to be able to find holes in the defense and make quick decisions. This comes with experience and practice.

Step 4: Be Tough and Physical

Boise State running backs must be tough and physical to withstand the rigors of the game. They must be able to break tackles and gain yards after contact.

Step 5: Be a Team Player

A running back must be a team player and put the team's success ahead of their own individual goals. This means blocking for other players, making sacrifices, and being willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win.

Why Boise State Running Backs Matter

Boise State running backs have played a vital role in the program's success over the years. They have helped the Broncos win multiple conference championships and bowl games. They have also produced numerous All-American players and NFL draft picks.

Conclusion

The Boise State running back position has a rich tradition of success and dominance. The Broncos have produced numerous outstanding running backs who have made their mark on the college football landscape. By following a step-by-step approach and embodying the core values of the program, Boise State running backs will continue to be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.

Table 1: Boise State Running Backs with 1,000+ Rushing Yards in a Single Season

Table 2: Boise State Running Backs with All-American Honors

Table 3: Boise State Running Backs Drafted into the NFL