Eastern Washington vs Boise State prediction and analysis

Matchup Overview

The Eastern Washington Eagles visit the Boise State Broncos on Friday night at Albertsons Stadium in what will be an early test for both programs as they look to bounce back from 0-1 starts to the 2025 college football season.

Eastern Washington Eagles Analysis

Eastern Washington enters this game coming off a tough loss to Incarnate Word, marking a continuation of a challenging stretch where they have dropped nine of their last 12 games. Quarterback Jared Taylor has struggled to find a rhythm, completing just 55.3% of his passes for 183 yards without reaching the end zone through the air. The passing game has been modest with Marceese Yetts and Jaxon Branch combining for 106 yards on 10 receptions.

On the ground, the Eagles rely heavily on Marceese Yetts, who leads the team with 59 rushing yards and two touchdowns, though the overall rushing average is a moderate 107 yards per game. Defensively, Eastern Washington has been porous, allowing 31 points and over 460 yards per contest. Key defenders like Drew Carter have been active with 11 tackles, but the Eagles’ defense overall has struggled to contain offenses.

Boise State Broncos Outlook

The Broncos also started their campaign with a loss, falling to South Florida on the road. However, playing in Tampa’s tough, humid environment is a difficult challenge for any visitor, and Boise State hopes to rebound strongly at home. Quarterback Maddux Madsen has shown potential, completing 54.3% of his passes for 225 yards and tossing his first touchdown of the season. Target receivers Latrell Caples and Ben Ford provide steady production in the passing game.

Boise State boasts a significantly stronger rushing attack, averaging over 250 yards per game, spearheaded by Sire Gains. Defensively, they give up slightly more points than Eastern Washington but notably less total yardage, at 372 yards per contest. Pressure up front is evident with Braxton Fely and Dion Washington contributing 2.5 sacks combined.

Key Factors and Prediction

• Home-field advantage: Albertsons Stadium provides a familiar and energetic environment for Boise State, which should motivate the Broncos to show a marked improvement after their opening loss.
• Running game disparity: Boise State’s robust rushing attack, averaging more than double Eastern Washington’s ground yards, can control the clock and tempo, limiting Eastern Washington’s offensive opportunities.
• Defensive concerns: Eastern Washington’s inability to stop opposing offenses was evident in their season opener and remains a critical weakness. Boise State’s offense should exploit this vulnerability effectively.
• Motivation and momentum: Boise State will be eager to avoid starting 0-2 for the second time in three years, while Eastern Washington is riding negative momentum after a long stretch of losses.

Prediction Summary

Expect Boise State to assert themselves on home turf with a physical running game and improved defense. Eastern Washington’s struggles on both sides of the ball will likely continue against a hungry Broncos squad. Despite Boise State’s slow start, their talent and home advantage make them the clear favorites in this matchup.

Final Prediction: Boise State Broncos to Win by 14+ Points