Boise State football faces a well-known rival this Saturday as it travels to Laramie, Wyoming, to take on the Cowboys in a Mountain West matchup, Idaho Statesman reports.
While Boise State (9-1, 6-0 MW) has enjoyed a dominant history against Wyoming (2-8, 2-4 MW), the Cowboys are no strangers to pulling off surprises, including their narrow 30-28 victory in 2016.
The two teams have faced off every year since 2010, creating a sense of mutual respect despite their differing fortunes. Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson spoke about the rivalry, noting the admiration for Wyoming’s effort and style.
“I think you build respect for teams you see year in, year out, especially with who they are… I’ve had multiple battles with them in Laramie and on The Blue, and so there’s a lot of respect there,” Danielson said.
Wyoming, despite its struggles this season, remains a potentially tricky opponent. New leadership under head coach Jay Sawvel and coordinators Jay Johnson and Aaron Bohl brings fresh strategies, though the team continues to rely on a strong running game, a hallmark of their approach.
Wyoming’s offense could benefit from the return of senior running back Harrison Waylee. After missing much of the season due to a preseason knee injury, Waylee has returned to lead the Cowboys’ ground game. In his first two games back, he ran for 185 yards and a touchdown, showing flashes of the form that saw him rush for 947 yards last season.
Boise State, meanwhile, enters the game with a well-rounded squad, prepared for the physical challenge Wyoming typically presents.
The matchup’s setting in Laramie introduces unique challenges. At an altitude of 7,165 feet, War Memorial Stadium is one of the highest venues in college football, creating thinner air and colder conditions than most players are accustomed to.
Saturday’s forecast includes gusty winds up to 35 mph, with a low temperature of 29 degrees. While Boise State is accustomed to cold weather, wind may disrupt the passing game, as redshirt senior receiver Latrell Caples pointed out.
“The deeper balls might adjust in the air… We’ve just got to be able to have really good eyes in a game like this,” Caples said.
The elevation also impacts the kicking game, with longer distances expected on punts and kickoffs. Caples noted that touchbacks are more common in Laramie due to the altitude.
