The Mountain West Championship has concluded, and for the third consecutive year, Boise State is the champion and will leave the conference on top. Let’s take a look at the top performers from the championship
game.
Offensive Player of the Week
Maddux Madsen (Boise State)
Many fans questioned Spencer Danielson’s decision to go with Madsen who was coming back from an injury, but Madsen did not let his head coach down. He was dialed in and his mobility proved to be a huge asset in Boise State’s victory. Madsen completed 17 of 31 passes for 289 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a 10-yard rushing touchdown. It was arguably his best game of the season on the biggest stage.
Defensive Player of the Week
Ty Benefield (Boise State)
There were a number of guys I could have gone with here. Boen Phelps and Max Stege both had great games. But Benefield was ultimately the difference maker when he started spying UNLV quarterback Anthony Colandrea in the second half. Benefield is the leader of this defense, and his eight tackles and fumble recovery were only a small part in the role he played Friday night. It was a great performance by Benefield and Boise State’s defense.
Special Teams Player of the Week
Colton Boomer (Boise State)
It’s been an up-and-down season for Boomer, who has struggled to connect on field goals beyond 40 yards. But that changed on Friday night when Boomer nailed a 50-yard kick that sealed the Bronco victory. He also connected on all five of his extra points attempts.
Newcomer of the Week
Sherrod Smith (Boise State)
The junior college transfer has emerged as a big hitter and legitimate lockdown cornerback after the season ending injury to A’Marion McCoy. Smith had a spectacular performance against UNLV. He finished the game with four tackles and two passes defended, but his ability to stay with UNLV’s receiver won’t show up in the stats. It was a breakout game for Smith, who will likely be a starter for the Broncos next season.
Freshman of the Week
Sire Gaines (Boise State)
His carries may have been limited, but Gaines set the pace for the Bronco rushing attack in the first half. The redshirt freshman had 9 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown. His biggest play of the game came on a 35-yard run where he broke six tackles. Gaines is poised for a breakout season if he can stay healthy in 2026.
