The promising horizon for Boise State Football shines brighter as several Broncos earn coveted spots on prominent national College Football Awards watch lists, signaling a season of high expectations. Headlining this impressive recognition are junior safety Ty Benefield and senior cornerback A’Marion McCoy, both named to the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award watch list, an honor bestowed upon the nation’s top defensive backs. This early recognition underscores the talent and depth within the Boise State program as they gear up for another competitive NCAA Football season.
Ty Benefield, a dynamic force in the Broncos’ secondary, enters the season on the heels of an outstanding performance. Last season, the junior safety consistently demonstrated his impact, leading the team with an impressive 82 total tackles. His defensive prowess was further highlighted by five crucial pass breakups, two timely interceptions, and two fumble recoveries, showcasing his all-around ability. Benefield’s consistent high-level play earned him an all-Mountain West honorable mention, a testament to his skill and dedication.
Complementing Benefield’s recognition, A’Marion McCoy’s inclusion on the Jim Thorpe Award watch list speaks volumes about his exceptional talent at cornerback. McCoy’s 2023 campaign was marked by an extraordinary ability to disrupt passing lanes, recording 11 pass breakups—a figure that tied for second nationally. Beyond his coverage skills, he contributed significantly with 60 total tackles and delivered a memorable moment by returning an interception for a touchdown against conference rival San Diego State, solidifying his reputation as a big-play threat.
Boise State’s distinction extends beyond just these two defensive standouts; the university is one of only six programs nationally to feature multiple players on the exclusive 35-man Jim Thorpe Award watch list. This elite group also includes powerhouse programs like Iowa State, Kennesaw State, Ohio, Ohio State, and Texas, placing Boise State among esteemed company. The list itself is meticulously curated, comprising 19 cornerbacks and 16 safeties, highlighting the rigorous selection process for these top College Football Awards.
The Mountain West Conference, a hotbed of emerging talent, also boasts strong representation on the Jim Thorpe list, with Fresno State cornerback Al’zillion Hamilton joining Benefield and McCoy. Furthermore, the Broncos’ offensive firepower hasn’t gone unnoticed, as junior quarterback Maddux Madsen has been placed on a major player of the year watch list. Madsen’s sophomore season was nothing short of spectacular, as he threw for an impressive 3,018 yards and 23 touchdowns against just six interceptions, positioning him as a key figure in the team’s aerial attack for the upcoming NCAA Football season.
The defensive nominations continue with junior edge rusher Jayden Virgin-Morgan, who is a strong contender for the Bednarik Award, recognizing the best defensive player in college football. Virgin-Morgan was a dominant force last season, leading Boise State with an impressive 10 sacks, consistently pressuring opposing quarterbacks. Additionally, senior linebacker Marco Notarainni has been nominated for the Wuerffel Trophy, an award celebrating outstanding contributions to the community alongside on-field excellence. Notarainni’s junior year included 60 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and multiple forced turnovers, highlighting his impactful presence.
Overall, the depth of talent at Boise State is undeniable, with ten players earning spots on the highly anticipated All-Mountain West preseason team. This extensive list includes key contributors across offense and defense, such as Madsen, wide receiver Latrell Caples, offensive lineman Mason Randolph, tight end Matt Lauter, defensive lineman Braxton Fely, alongside the previously mentioned Virgin-Morgan, Notarainni, Benefield, and McCoy. Such widespread recognition is a powerful indicator of the team’s overall strength and potential.
Even Head Coach Spencer Danielson has received national acclaim, earning a spot on the prestigious Dodd Trophy preseason watch list. This award honors coaches who not only achieve success on the field but also embody scholarship, leadership, and integrity—the foundational principles of legendary coach Bobby Dodd’s philosophy. Danielson’s nomination reflects the positive culture and holistic development fostered within the Boise State Football program, extending beyond pure athletic performance.
The sheer volume of individual accolades and nominations across various College Football Awards watch lists points to an exceptionally promising season for Boise State. With key players recognized for their outstanding abilities and a coach celebrated for his comprehensive approach, the Broncos are poised to make significant waves in NCAA Football. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing how these recognized talents translate into success on the field, building on the momentum of this impressive preseason recognition.
Leave a Reply