What's Happening?
Boise State's College Football Playoff aspirations took a hit following a 34-7 loss to South Florida. The Broncos, ranked No. 25, struggled with turnovers and failed fourth-down attempts, allowing South Florida to dominate the game. Boise State was previously considered a top contender from the Group of Six, having made the playoff last season. The absence of their star rusher, Ashton Jeanty, was felt as quarterback Maddux Madsen faced challenges in the game. Despite being favorites in the Mountain West, this loss complicates their path to the playoffs.
Why It's Important?
The defeat significantly impacts Boise State's chances of returning to the College Football Playoff, especially with upcoming games against strong opponents like Notre Dame. The loss also highlights the potential for teams from the American conference, such as South Florida, to emerge as playoff contenders. This shift could benefit the American conference, which has been striving for recognition alongside major conferences like the ACC and SEC. South Florida's victory positions them as a stronger playoff candidate, potentially influencing the playoff committee's decisions.
What's Next?
Boise State must aim for a flawless performance in the Mountain West to keep their playoff hopes alive, starting with their challenging game against Notre Dame. South Florida, meanwhile, faces tough matches against Florida and Miami, where strong performances could further solidify their playoff position.
