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First look: Boise State at Washington State

Boise State tight end Jake Roh (88) runs after the catch during the second half of the season opener against Troy. The Broncos visit Washington State Saturday. (Otto Kitsinger / AP)
By Theo Lawson theol@spokesman.com(509) 459-5584

What is it? Boise State (1-0, 0-0) makes the return trip of a nonconference home-and-home series with Washington State (1-0, 0-0).

Where is it? Martin Stadium in Pullman.

When is it? Late … again. Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m. PDT on Saturday.

Where can I watch it? The Worldwide Leader in Sports, ESPN.

Who is favored? WSU starts as an 8.5-point favorite one year after opening as a 12-point underdog against the same team.

Why WSU will win: The Cougar defensive front dropped Montana State’s Chris Murray three times on Saturday. Brett Rypien isn’t nearly as mobile and Troy got to the Boise State quarterback four times in the season opener at Albertsons Stadium.

Why BSU will win: Rypien does have a cannon and if he gets the protection he needs, the junior could test the Cougars downfield. Alex Grinch’s defensive backs didn’t get much of a workout in the opener and saw just 12 pass attempts.

What happened last time? In the second week of the 2016 season, Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols left treadmarks all over the blue turf in Boise, cruising for 126 rushing yards and two touchdowns in a 31-28 BSU win.