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Boise State vs. Colorado State Game Preview: A Mountain West Showdown with Major Implications

  • Writer: Skyler Hoops
    Skyler Hoops
  • Mar 6
  • 3 min read

The Stage Is Set: A Pivotal Battle in Boise

On Friday, March 7, at 8:00 PM MT, the Boise State Broncos (22-8, 14-5 MW) will host the Colorado State Rams (21-9, 15-4 MW) in a high-stakes Mountain West battle on FS1. With March Madness approaching, both teams are looking to solidify their NCAA Tournament resumes and improve their seeding. This game could serve as a critical turning point for both programs.

Boise State enters the matchup on a five-game winning streak, demonstrating defensive toughness and late-game execution. Colorado State counters with a balanced offensive attack led by Nique Clifford and a disciplined, efficient system. The outcome could hinge on whether the Broncos' stifling defense can neutralize the Rams' perimeter shooting and rebounding advantage.


Last Matchup: Boise State vs. Colorado State Highlights


Key Players to Watch


Boise State Broncos

  • Tyson Degenhart (F, Sr.) – The leader of Boise State’s attack, Degenhart is averaging 17.9 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. His ability to score at all levels and control the paint will be vital.

  • Alvaro Cardenas (G, Sr.) – The team’s primary facilitator, Cardenas is averaging 6.8 assists per game while adding 11.8 points. His playmaking and decision-making under pressure will be crucial.

  • Andrew Meadow (F, So.) – A key contributor, Meadow is averaging 12.3 points and 4.3 rebounds per game. His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions makes him an X-factor.


Colorado State Rams

  • Nique Clifford (G, Sr.) – A two-way force, Clifford leads the Rams with 17.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. His ability to impact every facet of the game makes him a primary concern for Boise State’s defense.

  • Jalen Lake (G, Sr.) – Shooting 38.5% from three-point range, Lake provides a deep threat that could stretch the Broncos' defense.

  • Jaylen Crocker-Johnson (F, So.) – An interior presence with 0.7 blocks per game, his defensive contributions will be key in limiting Boise State’s inside scoring.


Breaking Down the Numbers: Stats & Trends

Scoring & Efficiency

  • Boise State: 76.1 PPG (116th in NCAA), 46.7% FG, 31.8% 3PT

  • Colorado State: 75.2 PPG (139th), 47.6% FG, 35.6% 3PT

Boise State has a slight scoring edge, but Colorado State shoots more efficiently from deep. Perimeter defense will be a deciding factor, as the Broncos must limit open looks from three.


Defense & Turnovers

  • Boise State: 65.8 PA (32nd in NCAA), 11.2 TO per game (121st), 5.4 STL, 2.6 BLK

  • Colorado State: 67.4 PA (53rd), 11.8 TO per game (181st), 5.2 STL, 3.0 BLK

Both teams are disciplined defensively, but Boise State’s ability to force mistakes and limit turnovers gives them an advantage in transition opportunities.


Recent Form

  • Boise State: 5-0 in last five games (Wins vs. Air Force, Fresno State, Utah State, Nevada, New Mexico)

  • Colorado State: 5-0 in last five games (Wins vs. San Jose, Utah State, Air Force, UNLV, Nevada)

Boise State boasts a dominant home record (13-1), while Colorado State has been solid but not spectacular on the road (6-4). ExtraMile Arena’s home-court advantage could be a decisive factor.


What Will Decide the Game?

  • Perimeter Defense: Boise State must contain Colorado State’s shooters, especially Jalen Lake.

  • Rebounding Battle: Clifford’s near double-double average makes him a threat on the boards. Boise State’s frontcourt must step up.

  • Clutch Execution: Cardenas and Degenhart have been elite in crunch time. If this game is close late, their composure could be the difference.


Prediction: A Hard-Fought Mountain West Battle

This matchup features two well-coached teams with contrasting strengths. Boise State’s defensive intensity, rebounding edge, and home-court advantage make them slight favorites. However, if Colorado State controls the tempo and Clifford dominates, the Rams could steal a key road win.


Final Score Prediction: Boise State 74, Colorado State 70

The Broncos’ defensive execution and ability to limit turnovers will prove decisive in a tightly contested battle.

Tune in Friday at 8:00 PM MT on FS1 for this crucial Mountain West showdown.


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