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Bronco freshmen impacting both sides of the ball
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Not since the 1997 season has the Boise State program had a three-game losing streak-well, not until now. But, if anything is going to come out as a positive from the 0-2 start to the season and the losing streak dating back to the Liberty Bowl loss is a group of freshmen stepping up for the Broncos.There has been talk that running back Ian Johnson is the tailback of the future. But, his play in the first two games of the season may be forcing the future upon the team now.
"We know he is a really good player and he's a fast and physical guy and as he gets more reps and gets more comfortable, you are going to see him be much more productive," BSU head coach Dan Hawkins said.
Johnson has led the team in rushing both games, for a total of 120 yards-including 72 against Oregon State Saturday.Ryan Clady was a bit wide-eyed against Georgia in the first half, prompting the coaching staff to move to junior Ryan Keating in the second quarter. Saturday, Clady was still the starter at right tackle. The freshman from Rialto, Calif. has been impressive and is a huge clog (6-6, 312) in the right side of the line.Safety Ellis Powers is stuck behind sophomore Austin Smith at the Rover position, but he came up big on special teams Saturday. Powers recovered a fumble off of punt, and recorded a sack.The biggest surprise has been the play of true freshman Orlando Scandrick. Just a few months after his high school graduation, Scandrick stepped in as the quasi-starter at cornerback in the season opener against Georgia. Quinton Jones was rocked on the initial kickoff against Georgia, and Scandrick played most of the first half.Saturday against the Beavers, Scandrick replaced Jones at corner, and continued to play the rest of the game.
"I thought Quinton was a little tentative in there and I think that is the nature of him being new back there," Hawkins said. "I don't care if guys make mistakes, I just want them to play and not be afraid to fail."
Trevor Horn
Sports Editor
