Boise State brings devoted, dominant defense to Troy
BRANSON MO NEWS: Since 2000 no FBS program has scored more points than Boise State, but an experienced defense makes the No. 22 defense from a year ago an even stiffer challenge in 2018.The Broncos return 10 of its 11 starters from a defense that ranked in the top 25 in rushing yards allowed (17th) and total defense (22nd) last year. The unit features star playmakers like safety Kekoa Nawahine, cornerback Tyler Horton and monster defensive tackle David Moa – all who have found themselves on various preseason watch lists.While expectations for the unit are high, Boise State head coach Bryan Harsin said he has not seen the pressure – or hype – affect his defense’s performance.
“I don’t think the guys are buying into that. They’re not slowing down,” he said in an interview with the Eagle. “We’re still practicing like we don’t have those expectations. We’re excited because we have a bunch of hard workers on that side of the ball.”If the Broncos are indeed focused, it is likely the strong veteran presence that leads the way. Eight of the projected 11 starters entering Saturday’s game with Troy (5 p.m., ESPNews) are either juniors or seniors, and they know defensive coordinator Andy Avalos’ system well.“The philosophy hasn’t changed,” Harsin said. “The expectations are the same.”In 2017, the Bronco defense shined in generating pressure, registering 34 sacks, and in creating turnovers (15 interceptions, 11 fumble recoveries). Troy will break in new starting quarterback Kaleb Barker in the season opener, but the Trojans will counter Boise’s stout defense with a deep and experienced offensive line that returns four starters.Barker and backup Sawyer Smith also possess good mobility, another weapon the Trojans could use against the Broncos.Replacing Wilson: While the Broncos return 1,000-yard rusher Alex Mattison and four-year starter Brett Rypien at …
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