Reports: QB Maddux Madsen to start in opener for Boise State

Quarterback Maddux Madsen will get the start in Boise State's opener against Georgia Southern on Aug. 31, according to several reports.

The redshirt sophomore, who has played 10 games over the past two seasons, beat out the touted Malachi Nelson, who transferred from USC.

Madsen played in nine games in 2023 and has 1,234 passing yards and nine touchdowns in his career. He was in a battle for the starting job for most of last season with Taylen Green. Madsen finally won the job but tore his MCL and PCL against New Mexico on Nov. 11, after throwing for 202 yards and two touchdowns. Green transferred to Arkansas.

Boise State is one of the favorites from outside the four power conferences to make the NCAA's new 12-team playoff format in 2024. The Broncos (8-6, 6-2 in 2023) are the defending Mountain West champion.

The Broncos' offense will again be led by tailback Ashton Jeanty. He led college football with an average of 159.7 yards per game last season, had 1,916 yards all-purpose yards -- 1,347 rushing -- and was the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year.

--Field Level Media