Boise State University is set to become the newest member of the Pac‑12 in 2026, marking the culmination of a decade‑long ascent that began when the Broncos left the Mountain West Conference.
The move follows a historic 2024 season in which the Broncos posted a 12‑2 record, captured the Mountain West title and earned a spot in the College Football Playoff, a feat that underscored the program’s rapid rise.
The Offensive Arsenal
At the heart of the attack is Ashton Jeanty, the Heisman Trophy runner‑up who has already amassed 6,586 passing yards and 61 total touchdowns at Boise State. He will be complemented by senior quarterback Maddux Madsen, who brings a wealth of experience to the huddle, and a stable of playmakers that includes running backs Dylan Riley and Sire Gaines.
The receiving corps has been bolstered by newcomers Rasean Jones, Darren Morris and Akeem Wright, while the backfield also features standout athletes such as Cam Bates, Ben Ford, Matt Wagner, Jaden Mickey, JeRico Washington Jr., Demetrius Freeney Jr., Franklyn Johnson Jr., Sherrod Smith, Derek Ganter Jr., Travis Anderson, Roman Tillmon and Terrence Brown, who are expected to make immediate impacts on both sides of the ball.
Defensive Renewal
Boise State’s secondary, long regarded as a work in progress, has been reshaped through a mix of returning talent and transfer portal additions. Players like Cam Bates and Derek Ganter Jr. are slated to anchor the defense, providing the depth needed to compete against the high‑powered offenses of the Pac‑12.
A Challenging Schedule
The Broncos will navigate a schedule that includes four home contests and three conference road trips, with marquee matchups against San Diego State serving as a potential preview of a future Pac‑12 championship game. Analysts predict that the toughest road test will come at Fresno State, where the Broncos will be tested against a disciplined and experienced squad.
Despite the daunting slate, the program enters the transition with confidence, buoyed by a strong offensive identity, a revamped defensive unit and a coaching staff that has already proven its ability to develop talent. The upcoming season will serve as a litmus test for whether Boise State can translate its Mountain West success onto a larger stage.