The Wyoming Cowboys will face their toughest challenge of the season on Saturday as they host the 12th-ranked Boise State Broncos in the final home game of the year.
The matchup, set for 5 p.m. at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie, also marks Senior Day, with a ceremony to honor Wyoming’s seniors for their contributions to the program.
Fans unable to attend can catch the action live on CBS Sports Network, with Rich Waltz providing play-by-play, Robert Turbin as the analyst, and Brandon Baylor on the sidelines. Locally, the game will air on the Cowboy Sports Network, featuring Keith Kelley, Kevin McKinney, and Erick Pauley.
Tickets are still available through the University of Wyoming Athletics website, via email, by phone, or in person at the ticket office.
The Cowboys will celebrate a senior class that has guided the program to four bowl games during their tenure. Known for their grit and resilience, these players have earned national recognition and multiple Mountain West accolades.
The Boise State Broncos, boasting a 9-1 record, are ranked No. 12 in the College Football Playoff standings and remain a strong contender for a playoff spot. The Broncos are led by standout running back Ashton Jeanty, who is among the nation’s top Heisman Trophy candidates with 1,893 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns this season.
Head coach Jay Sawvel acknowledged the challenge Jeanty presents, calling him “ridiculous” and noting his nearly 1,400 rushing yards after contact.
“He’s amazing and deserves the credit he gets,” Sawvel said.
The Broncos are more than just Jeanty. Quarterback Maddux Madsen adds balance to the offense, completing 63.6% of his passes for 1,803 yards and eight touchdowns. Boise State’s defense, ranked second nationally in sacks, will also pose a challenge for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys (2-8, 2-4) have faced a grueling schedule, with five opponents either ranked or receiving votes in national polls. Despite the record, several players have shined:
- Connor Shay: The linebacker recorded a career-high 12 tackles against Colorado State, leading the team’s defensive effort.
- Jamari Ferrell: The running back posted a 62-yard run in the same game and has 163 rushing yards over his last two contests.
- Tyler King: The wide receiver ranks second nationally in kick return average and has contributed significantly on offense.
Wyoming’s defense excels on third downs, ranking fifth nationally and first in the Mountain West in third-down stops. However, injuries to key edge rushers like Braden Siders and Sabastian Harsh have tested the team’s depth.
The Cowboys are no strangers to hosting ranked opponents at War Memorial Stadium. Although they hold a 13-65 record all-time against ranked teams, Wyoming defeated a ranked Boise State squad in Laramie in 2016, winning 30-28.
While Wyoming won’t qualify for a bowl game this season, they have a chance to play spoiler against a team vying for national recognition. Coach Sawvel described Boise State as the best Mountain West team he’s seen during his tenure, highlighting the challenge and opportunity the game presents.
With input from 7220sports.com, MARCA, and the Mountaineer.
