Week 1 MWC Players of the Week

Offensive explosions and a pair of upsets thrusted the Mountain West Conference in the spotlight this past week. But what players stood out the most? Let the actual selection begin!

Over the course of the college football season, one offensive, defensive and special teams player from the Mountain West will be selected based on impressive performances.

This week was tough, but I went with my gut on this one.

OFFENSE:

Hank Bachmeier: QB, Boise State. 30-51, 407 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception.

The homer in me was tempted to go with Nevada redshirt freshman Carson Strong, but Bachmeier put together quite the performance in a stunning upset over Florida State. As a true freshman, Bachmeier led the Broncos back from an 18-point deficit and impressed from the coin flip to the final whistle.

Much of Boise State’s comeback was placed on Bachmeier’s shoulders, and he really delivered.

DEFENSE:

David Woodward, LB Utah State. 24 tackles (16 solo), 2 forced fumbles, 1 sack.

I originally had Nevada cornerback Daniel Brown with two interceptions. But Utah State linebacker David Woodward is the better choice without question. Woodward had the most tackles for the Aggies in a single game since 2003. He was all over the field and wrecked havoc on the defensive end despite Utah State falling to Wake Forest 38-35.

SPECIAL TEAMS:

Brandon Talton: 2/2 FG (long 56 yards) 4/4 XP

Of all the plays made this weekend, Talton’s game-winning 56-yard field goal took the cake. He came into the season as a backup, but ended the night as a Nevada legend. His kick was plastered all over national media and the freshman kicker was offered a full-time scholarship as a result.

If you think my picks this week were wrong, feel free to explain who should’ve gotten the nod in the comments below. There will be plenty of controversy as the season goes along.