Backup Quarterback Carries Boise State to Eighth Straight Win

Max Cutforth took the starting role for Boise State on Saturday night, throwing four touchdown passes and adding a rushing score. His performance helped No. 20 Boise State defeat Colorado State 64-38, extending the Broncos' winning streak to eight games. Cutforth completed 16 of 19 passes for 317 yards while filling in for Maddux Madsen, who was sidelined by an injury.

Tailback Dylan Riley provided a dynamic threat from the backfield, amassing 300 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns. He rushed for 192 yards and caught eight passes for 88 yards. On the second play from scrimmage, Riley caught the ball and ran 73 yards for a touchdown. He also returned a kickoff 20 yards. After his third score, Riley struck a celebratory pose. He later said the move was planned because his teammates had been asking him to do it for weeks.

The Broncos dominated the ball, accumulating 669 total yards of offense. That total ranks as the eighth highest in program history. Boise State scored on four consecutive drives to open the game and punted only once during the contest. The team has now scored 64 points on the road, which is their highest total away from home since a 71-13 win at Chaffey College in 1952. Coach Spencer Danielson noted that the team executed well, specifically praising Cutforth's performance.

Colorado State entered the game with a defense that allowed an FBS worst 42.4 points per game. The Rams managed 253 passing yards and two touchdowns through quarterback Hauss Hejny, who also ran for 69 yards and a score. Coach Jim Mora expressed pride in his offense's effort but acknowledged the team could not record a stop. Mora also discussed an incident between offensive lineman Toriyan Johnson and strength coach Shelton Bynum. He stated he has not yet seen the video of the event but said the behavior did not match the team's standards.

Boise State improved to 8-1 overall and 5-0 in the Pac-12. The team is currently the highest ranked Group of Six squad in the College Football Playoff rankings. Danielson said he does not focus on the current standings, noting that only the final rankings matter. The Broncos will host Oregon State on Saturday. Colorado State dropped to 3-6 overall and 1-4 in conference play. They will travel to Washington State on Saturday. The Rams are now 1-14 against Boise State, with their only victory occurring in 2023.