"With our backs against the wall": Boise State QB Maddux Madsen describes Broncos' offensive tone set by Ashton Jeanty
Boise State is currently on track to secure the 12-seed in the expanded 2024 College Football Playoff. The Broncos have turned into the premier team in the Mountain West and have been one of the most consistent offenses in college football.
Running back Asthon Jeanty is viewed as the face of the team and the most dominating offensive player. More than their quarterback, Massux Madsen, Jeanty sets the tone for the offense.
So when interviewer Zach Gelb asked Madsen about his role when it comes to keeping up with Jeanty's humble energy, he said,
"Offensively, confidence is a big deal for me. But I know confidence can't just be gifted. So understanding where confidence comes from. Whether its how well you're preparing, do you have trust in certain guys?"
He talked about how prepartion springs confidence in his team. And there are many small things they have to do right to showcase and realize that confidence on the field. He further noted,
"In our offense especially, like, we're gonna do things really good with our backs against the wall."
Behind Ashton Jeanty and Maddux Madsen's leadership, Boise State are doing something no other Group of Five school has done before.
Broncos still knocking on the door of history
Boise State will have the opportunity to become the first Group of Five school to win a playoff game since the format was introduced ten years ago. If the bracket was determined today, the Broncos would face No. 5 Texas.
Madsen has had a very effective season thanks to Jeanty's gravitational ground presence. He has 1,798 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. He's coming off one of his best games of the year in a 56-24 victory over the San Diego State Aztecs with 307 yards, four touchdown passes, and zero interceptions.
Many still don't think Boise State can make a real impact in the playoff. Some believe the Broncos will get a reality check once they face a team from the Big Ten or SEC. Some think their Mountain West schedule is not impressive despite their lone game against a Power 4 conference team being a close 37-34 loss to the Oregon Ducks - the caliber of opponent the Broncos are expected to face in the playoffs.
But Madsen is used to that kind of treatment and is ready to embrace it throughout the rest of the season.
"I have been doubted my whole entire life," Madsen said. "I don't find it very impacting on me."