The San Diego State Aztecs and the UNLV Rebels have both been accused of using unsportsmanlike and dangerous methods to stop Heisman hopeful Ashton Jeanty. On one hand, can you imagine being so scary to your opponents that they have to try to hurt you to stop you? On the other hand, imagine being part of a program that is more interested in hurting a player to stop them than they are in being good enough to win in a fair game.
To add insult to injury (no pun intended), the supposed dirty play of UNLV specifically led to injury (multiple if we are being honest) for Jeanty, effectively ruining his Heisman hopes. After Jeanty landed awkwardly he slowed down and shied away from his usual brute-style running. Throughout each game Jeanty looked slow, even when trying to get up after a typical play.
Prior to the matchup against UNLV, Ashton Jeanty was the favorite to win the Heisman. Following the game against San Diego State, Jeanty sits behind three other Heisman hopefuls in the running. Even with the accusations of dangerous tactics, #2 still broke 100 yards in each game.
Fans Defend Ashton Jeanty
Fans took notice of the extra effort to stop Boise State’s running back. They took to X to respond to a post by Zach Ballard (@ZachBallard1984) where he said, “Rewatching the game. Aztecs made a clear effort to injure Jeanty.” Here are some of the responses:
They 100% were… “Extra” with him, for sure.-MD (@ReaLitY_Siege)Not surprising that they tried to get a little extra contact when they could.-Bleed Blue (@Spudtacula)Probably why Danielson kept pouring it on.-RMC (@Markcur71779968)Hard to say if there was intent, but there was some ankle twisting and extra curriculars for sure.-Collin Clovis (@PolarisMan17)
Maddux Madsen and the Passing Game Step Up
With the workhorse of the Boise State Offense being slowed down, the passing game had to step up against the Aztecs. Maddux Madsen, who has been an efficient game manager this season took his game to the next level with four touchdown passes and over 300 yards. Latrell Caples reeled in three of those touchdowns for 90 yards receiving.
Up next, the Broncos take on the Nevada Wolf Pack and seek to continue on their warpath headed for the college football playoffs.
Also read: Gridiron What-If: Could #15 Boise State Beat #14 Alabama?
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