Boise State is gearing up for a landmark shift as it prepares to exit the Mountain West Conference and join the Pac‑12 next season, a move that promises to reshape the Broncos' schedule and elevate the program's national profile.
The 2025 campaign already offered glimpses of the talent that could carry the team forward, with running back Dylan Riley earning second‑team all‑Mountain West honors and safety Boen Phelps closing out his sophomore year with 66 tackles.
Breakout candidates
Defensive back Travis Anderson distinguished himself by appearing in all 14 games as a redshirt freshman, bringing a three‑star pedigree from Mission Viejo High School in California to the Broncos' secondary.
Wide receiver Cam Bates, celebrated as one of the fastest players on the roster, posted 17 catches for 302 yards and three touchdowns last season, underscoring his playmaking ability.
Edge rusher Roman Caywood, who logged 11 tackles across 13 games in 2025, is expected to assume a larger role this year, a prospect that has coaches eager to see his pass‑rush production increase.
Veteran linebacker Jayden Virgin‑Morgan, a two‑time all‑MWC selection with 16 career sacks, remains a cornerstone of the defense as the Broncos transition to a new conference.
With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, Boise State hopes to translate its spring‑practice momentum into a competitive Pac‑12 debut, while the university, the Mountain West Conference and the Pac‑12 itself prepare for the logistical and competitive ramifications of the move.