Washington football: 3 Keys to Victory vs Boise State in Week 1

Washington Football will kick-off their 2023 college football season against Boise State on Saturday. The Broncos were runners-up in the Mountain West Conference in 2022 and will be no push over under the guidance of Head coach Andy Avalos. So what will the keys to victory be for the Huskies?

Washington football Week 1 Keys to Victory

Stop the Run

Boise State loves to run the ball and are pretty effective at doing so. The Broncos had 551 carries last season, averaging 38.5 carries a game. They ranked 16th in rushing yards per game with an average of 202.5 yards.

They return their two leading guys in George Holani and Ashton Jeanty at running back, while also having dual threat quarterback in Taylen Green as an extra layer in the ground game. Both Holani and Jeanty are big RBs, both weighing around 210 lbs. The Huskies will need to be physical stopping them, as both players are excellent between the tackles.

Being effective in stopping the run will be a big part of Washington winning the game. In 2021 they had one of the worst run defenses in the league. In 2022 it got better but how much was that due to teams finding it easier through the air?

It will start up front with the big boys Ulumoo Ale and Tuli Letuligasenoa preventing the opposing offensive lineman from creating gaps. On top of getting to the QB, edge rushers Bralen Trice and Zion Tupuola-Fetui will need to be wary of running backs getting to the outside, while also containing the QB if he drifts out of the pocket. The linebackers will also play their part by getting down to the line and plugging gaps on run plays.

The Broncos have previously struggled with third and long situations and if Washington can hold them to the same, they have the game in the bag.

Wide receivers let loose

Last season, Boise State’s secondary was excellent against the passing game. In fact, they were ranked in the top 5 in the college football. Both starting corners and a safety have gone, so it will be a new look for them in 2023.

Underdefensive coordinator Spencer Danielson they played a few different coverages. Against Fresno State in last season’s Mountain West Championship game, they played a lot of man coverage against a spread offense. It would be a surprise if they attempt the same against Washington.

We know how talented these Husky receivers are. They will fancy their chances against an inexperienced secondary, whatever scheme Danielson has in line. The Washington passing game could be the key to victory, whatever else happens in the game.

Efficient in tackling

Back to the defense again and something that is a priority no matter the opposition, tackling. However it was the Achilles heel on the Washington’s defense last season. This needs to improve and it’s important it starts Saturday against Boise State.

As mentioned, the opposition has a couple of big backs who are very dangerous. They are excellent between the tackles and athletic enough to make guys miss. On top of that, they have a mobile QB to deal with, who can be electric when using his feet.

The Broncos are physical all over the offense, including at the receiver position, with Eric McAlister and Billy Bowens both 200 lbs.

Boise State will punish any missed tackles from Washington. Positive plays from bad tackling can swing the momentum. The defense can stifle the opposition with efficient tackling from start to finish.

If Washington football can be successful in the above areas, then a week 1 victory should entail.