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Boise State Football Spring Report

Who is standing out at quarterback and running back?

NCAA Football: Connecticut at Boise State Brian Losness-USA TODAY Sports

Heading into spring ball, there were two positions that Bronco fans were keeping a very close eye on, quarterback and running back. Before practices began, it seemed like Andrew Van Buren was the heir apparent at running back and the quarterback position would be the more interesting battle. It looks like that may not be the case.

Usually, Coach Harsin and the Bronco staff are pretty tight lipped about what goes on in practices. However, Harsin has been surprisingly transparent about the quarterback situation. Hank Bachmeier has been even better than expected, as he has been sharing starting snaps with senior Jaylon Henderson. Bachmeier is picking up the offense faster than expected and from what little video footage we have seen, he throws a beautiful ball and has been working extensively with Hightower and Shakir. While we will not know a starter when spring ball concludes, we will have an idea of who challenges injured quarterback Chase Cord for the starting spot. With Bachmeier already standing out, the biggest question might be if Chase Cord is even healthy enough to compete come fall camp.

At the running back position, Harsin has indicated that there really isn’t one player standing out. The lack of discussion regarding Andrew Van Buren might be concerning for some Bronco fans. In past interviews, Harsin has made sure to recognize Robert Mahone and Danny Smith. Expectations are huge for Van Buren and with the arrival of George Holani in the Summer, this battle is definitely worth keeping an eye on.

Another position to keep an eye on is linebacker, It sounds like early enrollee Casey Kline and junior RIley Whimpey have not been able to practice due to injuries. If the Broncos defense is going to meet the lofty expectations that are likely to be placed on the team, Zeke Noa will need to have a monster season and someone like DJ Schramm or Phillip Mills will have to become key contributors.

We will learn more on April 6th when the Broncos hold their annual Spring Game. I will be there to report on the game and give you a breakdown of where I think things stand heading into the 2019 season.