Maddux Madsen wins starting quarterback job at Boise State

The Boise State Broncos held a quarterback battle throughout the spring and summer, but a report from ESPN’s Pete Thamel indicated the program tabbed redshirt sophomore Maddux Madsen the starter under center in Week 1.

Madsen has appeared in 10 games in his two seasons in Boise, and he beat out highly regarded USC transfer Malachi Nelson for the starting spot.

Nelson battled injury in his one season at USC, only appearing in four snaps for the Trojans – all in one game against San Jose State. He had an extremely decorated high school career, however, throwing for nearly 8,000 yards and 105 touchdowns at Los Alamitos High School in California.

Now he’ll continue to work on his game in a backup capacity, while Madsen seeks an opportunity to thrive in coach Spencer Danielson’s offense. Madsen appeared in nine games for the Broncos last year, finally stealing the starting job for good in the New Mexico game – before he suffered a season-ending injury in that contest after throwing for 202 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

Madsen’s familiarity with the offense and dual-threat ability as a runner gave him the edge in a competition that was close all summer according to the coaching staff.

The Broncos have a real chance to win 10 or more games and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff, which has a guaranteed slot for the best Group of Five conference champion.

Boise State opens at Georgia Southern before taking on the No. 3 Oregon Ducks in Week 2 at Autzen Stadium.