Continuing with the theme of the week, the Peak Perspective Column will detail which teams have the best position units in the Mountain West. Voted on by our team, the results can be seen below.
In case you missed the first two days, you can see the All-MWC team and Awards from Monday and Tuesday, respectively. If you want to look at the preseason votes, here you go.
Quarterback
San Jose State
If both teams only employed one quarterback, Nevada’s Carson strong likely would have edged out SJSU’s Nick Starkel. However, factoring in Starkel and Nick Nash, who made an impact with his legs, and the Spartans get the edge.
Running Back
Wyoming
Similarly, this battle was tight with Xazavian Valladay and Ronnie Rivers. But looking at the back ups, and Trey Smith pushes the Cowboys to the top when compared to Jordan Mims.
Wide Receiver
Nevada
They have a pass-heavy offense to be sure, but were also great this season. Doubs almost amassed 1000 yards receiving in only eight games. He and Turner were the 1-2 punch but 6 different players gained over 100 yards receiving on the season. This is all after Elijah Cooks, the top WR going into the season, was lost for the year with an injury, so the depth was there as well.
Tight End
Colorado State
Two words: Trey McBride. He’s the best tight end in the Mountain West and it isn’t even close. He arguably carried the Ram’s offense this year which is difficult for a TE to do. He has a bright NFL future.
Offensive Line
Air Force
When healthy, there were a purely dominant unit. The tandem of Parker Ferguson and Nolan Laufenberg was more than enough to lead the Falcon rushing attack. It will be interesting to see if they get looks at the next level, but they the two best offensive lineman in the conference this year and were two of the best in the country.
Defensive Line
San Diego State
Cameron Thomas is the big name here after bursting on the scene last season. However, Jonah Tavai and Keshawn Banks also played a key role in stabilizing this unit. San Diego State has a strong defense and although the secondary led the way, this unit wasn’t far behind.
Linebacker
Boise State
They may not have been flashy but they got the job done. Whimpey had a remarkable season, and was among the top leaders in tackles for the conference. His counterpart, Ezekiel Noa was solid as well. There are better individuals LBs this season but as a unit, they stood out.
Defensive Back
San Diego State
Darren Hall, Tariq Thompson, Dwayne Johnson Jr. This unit was top-notch and has been for two years running now.
Special Teams
Boise State
Avery Williams was not only the best special teams player in the conference, but perhaps the nation. Most people are aware of the kick and punt returns. However, just as impressive were the handful of blocked punts he added to his exploits. The only surprise was why teams continued to kick to him?
Team Totals:
- Boise State: 2
- San Diego State: 2
- Air Force: 1
- Colorado State: 1
- Nevada: 1
- Wyoming: 1
- San Jose State: 1
Notes:
- The unanimous votes were Tight End, O-line, D-line, linebacker, the secondary, and special teams.
- That means the closest positions battles were quarterback, running back, and wide receiver.
Coming tomorrow: The 2020 All Coach Team.