The weekend of September 13, 2026, proved to be a remarkable one for Boise State University, as both the volleyball and football teams delivered stellar performances. The volleyball team concluded the Boise State Invitational with a flawless sweep, while the football team staged an incredible comeback to secure a crucial victory. These triumphs highlighted the talent and resilience of the Broncos’ athletes.
The volleyball team’s dominance was evident from the start, setting the stage for an exciting weekend of sports. Meanwhile, the football team’s resilience and strategic plays turned the tide in their favor, leaving fans in awe. These victories not only boosted the teams’ standings but also showcased the depth of talent within Boise State’s athletic programs.
Volleyball Team’s Impressive Sweep
The Boise State volleyball team capped off their Boise State Invitational with a commanding 3-0 sweep against Eastern Washington. The Broncos, now 6-4 on the season, showcased their defensive prowess and offensive firepower. Amelia Hansen was a standout performer, earning the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors with an impressive 21 kills and 17 blocks. Her exceptional performance was complemented by the contributions of Sydney DrevesTehya Maeva and Azlynn Tittmann who were all named to the all-tournament team.
The match against Eastern Washington (6-3) began with a bang as Savannah Sheridan served three consecutive aces to give the Broncos an early 4-0 lead. Dreves followed with a kill, further extending the lead. Despite a brief rally by the Eagles, Boise State maintained their dominance throughout the match, showcasing their ability to control both ends of the court. The team’s cohesive play and individual brilliance made for an unforgettable performance.
Football Team’s Comeback Victory
The Boise State football team demonstrated remarkable resilience in their game against Memphis, erasing a two-touchdown deficit to secure a 38-20 victory. The Broncos, now 1-1, faced a tough challenge but rallied in the second half with a 35-3 scoring run. This impressive comeback highlighted the team’s determination and strategic prowess. Maddux Madsen the quarterback, played a pivotal role in the victory, connecting with Akeem Wright for a crucial 37-yard touchdown on fourth down.
The turning point of the game came late in the first half when Travis Anderson intercepted a pass from Memphis quarterback Marcus Stokes. This defensive play set the stage for a 71-yard gain by Dylan Riley and a 19-yard touchdown run by Rasean Jones tying the game just before halftime. The momentum shifted decisively in favor of the Broncos, who went on to dominate the second half with a series of explosive plays.
The Running Game’s Impact
Offensive coordinator Nate Potter made a strategic decision to lean heavily on the running game, and it paid off handsomely. The duo of Riley and Sire Gaines led the charge, combining for 300 yards and three touchdowns. Riley had a career-high 206 yards on 19 carries, while Gaines added 93 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries. The strong running game not only controlled the clock but also wore down the Memphis defense, setting the stage for the Broncos’ offensive explosion.
Defensive Adjustments and Challenges
The Boise State defense faced early struggles, surrendering several explosive plays to Memphis. Hunter Tipton had a standout day for the Tigers, hauling in nine passes for 229 yards, including an 87-yard touchdown. However, the defense regrouped in the second half, pitching a shutout and limiting Memphis’ offensive opportunities. Defensive coordinator Erik Chinander will need to address the issues with explosive plays as the team prepares for their next matchup.
Looking Ahead
With these victories, Boise State has solidified its position as a top contender in their respective sports. The volleyball team’s dominant performance in the Boise State Invitational sets a high standard for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, the football team’s comeback victory over Memphis has boosted their College Football Playoff hopes, despite a challenging loss to Oregon the previous week. As the season progresses, the Broncos will look to build on these successes and continue their winning ways.
