This Team, Not Boise State, Predicted to Grab Football Playoff Slot

Anyone that has been a Boise State fan for long will remember the days of 'getting on the map'.  Seasons of winning but not being given a chance at the big stage because of the Broncos' 'small' status. Then came the glory days-- Coach Pete and Kellen Moore winning more games that most programs could dream of, including the then famous BCS births and Fiesta Bowl appearances.

Losing has never been good for Boise State--for decades, it has felt like one loss instantly takes away a shot at a major bowl or national attention. Could all of this soon change?

After years of kicking, screaming, and dreaming of playing in a 'major' conference--it's just right around the corner now for the Broncos, who will be members of the Pac-12 come Fall of 2026.

Many critics say that the Pac-12 still isn't an should not be considered a power conference and technically, it won't be. Given the current layout of the College Football Playoff, the Pac-12 is not guaranteed a spot in the bracket any more than the Mountain West or AAC, for example.

So, Boise State along with the rest of 'the little guys' are all going to be fighting for that one slot, the 12-seed, to get into the College Football Playoff.

Many sports outlets and 'experts' are predicting that, at least going in to the season, Boise State is the leader.

Recently, one ESPN 'expert' was televised saying otherwise...

Other 'Non-Power' teams that could be in the running for that slot? Lookout for Navy, Tulane, South Florida and yes...pesky UNLV!

Something about saying 'Pac-12' carries more swagger--but reality is, they're going to be playing a lot of--nearly all--familiar Mountain West foes.

Take a look ahead at who, when, and where will Boise State be playing in 2026 as new members of the PAC-12 conference!

Which game are you most excited to see?

Oregon will be hyped and Memphis could be a sleeper...there's a chance the Broncos start the season 0-2...but also a chance that if they start out 2-0, all eyes will be on them, nationwide!