Boise State’s next great running back has arrived

Al Formicola

Boise State’s next great running back has arrived image

© Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Sophomore’s breakout game shows the Broncos have found their heir to Ashton Jeanty

When Ashton Jeanty left Boise State, fans wondered who would carry the torch. On Saturday night in Colorado Springs, the answer became clear. Dylan Riley, a sophomore with speed and toughness, put on a performance that shifted the conversation from “what’s next” to “who’s here.”

Riley delivered multiple defining moments in Boise State’s 49-37 win over Air Force. On the Broncos’ first touchdown drive, Riley powered in from four yards out, matching Air Force’s opening score and proving he belonged in the spotlight.

Later in the first quarter, he ripped off a 34-yard scoring run, a flash of acceleration that gave Boise State momentum. He didn’t stop there, as Riley added an 84-yard receiving day, including a 75-yard touchdown on a perfectly executed screen pass.

With Air Force refusing to go away, Riley answered with two more rushing scores in the fourth quarter, one from eight yards and another from 43, burying any hope of a comeback.

In total, Riley piled up 255 yards of offense and five touchdowns, the kind of stat line that cements a player as the future of a program.

Boise State doesn’t have to wonder anymore. Their next great back has already arrived.

MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS: 

Al Formicola

Al Formicola is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He has over 20 years of television production experience as a writer and producer. He has previously written for Athlon Sports.