BOWLING GREEN - Boise State is coming to town.
What exactly does that mean?
By the numbers, the undefeated Broncos (3-0) are ranked No. 8 and pose a major obstacle for the Falcons (1-2), who are trying to bounce back after losing two in a row.
Yet, it's not often for a Mid-American Conference program to have an opportunity to play host to a top 10 program.
"With great challenges come great opportunities," BG coach Dave Clawson said. "We have a great opportunity to play the highest ranked team [at Doyt Perry Stadium] that we've ever played in the history of Bowling Green State University football. I think our players are going to embrace the challenge."
The Broncos present the most balanced team the Falcons have faced this season. Boise State averages just under 40 points per game while allowing only about 14. BG has averaged 20 points while limiting opponents to 19."This [Boise State] is a great football team," Clawson said. "One of the marks I think of a great football team is the ability to win all types of football games. Boise has proven this year they can win a low-scoring game beating Oregon [19-8] and they proved they can win a high-scoring game beating Fresno State [51-34]."
Boise State's wins also include a 48-0 drubbing of Miami (Ohio).
Broncos sophomore quarterback Kellen Moore has completed 53 of 80 passes for 685 yards, including eight touchdowns and only one interception.
The Broncos lost leading rusher D.J. Harper (knee) for the season after he gained 284 yards on 44 carries. However, Jeremy Avery, who has rushed for 279 yards on 45 attempts, has been just as productive while sharing the work.
INJURY UPDATE: The Falcons may be without senior tight end Jimmy Scheidler (ankle). Scheidler, who has caught five passes for 82 yards, may be a game-time decision. He suffered the injury against Marshall. Nick Rieke, a junior, is listed as the No. 2 tight end.
DeMark Jenkins, a redshirt freshman, figured as a possible backup to Rieke before he suffered an arm injury against Marshall that may sideline him for the remainder of the season.
MAHONE UPDATE: Starting senior safety P.J. Mahone, who was suspended indefinitely for violating team rules a week ago, will not play against Boise State. Clawson said the suspension of one of BG's top returners from last season remains in effect.
TICKET UPDATE: The BGSU athletic ticket office announced only a few hundred tickets remained for Saturday's 7 p.m. game. Fans have been advised to allow plenty of time for arrival. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Contact Donald Emmons at:
demmons@theblade.com
or 419-724-6302
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