First Look: WSU at BSU

Here is staff writer Jacob Thorpe’s first look at Saturday’s game between Washington State and Boise State.

What is it? Washington State (0-1) crosses the border for a showdown at Boise State (1-0).

Where is it? Albertson’s Stadium in Boise.

When is it? This late game will kick off at 7:15 p.m. on Saturday.

Where can I watch it? This game will broadcast nationally on ESPN2.

What if I like to listen? You can listen to the broadcast on KXLY 920 on the AM dial, the WSU GameDay smartphone app, or TuneIn.com/WSU.

Who is favored? Boise State is currently a 12-point favorite.

Why will WSU win? The Cougars have a tendency to play better on the road under Mike Leach than they do at home, with a 9-8 road record over the last three seasons.

Why will BSU win? Brett Rypien, nephew of WSU great Mark Rypien, leads a potent passing attack that will take advantage of a Cougars defense that looked very vulnerable through the air in Week 1.

What happened last time? Jason Gesser threw three touchdown passes to lead the Cougars to a 41-20 victory in Boise in the 2001 season.

Three things to know

1. Washington State is 4-0 all-time against the Broncos.

2. BSU is 104-6 at home since 1999, with one loss coming to WSU (2001).

3. The last three BSU coaches all went on to coach in the Pac-10/12. Dirk Koetter left for Arizona State in 2001, Dan Hawkins became the Colorado coach in 2006 and Washington hired Chris Petersen in 2014.