Boise State Top 10 Players: #7

For the third consecutive year, we are going to preview the top players on Boise State’s roster. To clarify, this is not who we think the top ten players on the roster will be at the end of the season or who we think the most important players are, but the most skilled players entering the season. We will be previewing one player each week heading into the season. This week is number seven.

Zach: You can’t be an elite team without great play in the trenches. Boise State should have no shortage of that this year, as they should be two deep on the defensive line. One defensive lineman that I really expect to shine this year is Scott Matlock. Matlock really made strides last season. He battled some injuries last year, but appears poised for a big season. I think he will be an all-conference selection when all is said and done.

Danny: For the second week in a row the athlete on my list might not even be an opening day starter. Last week was Hank Bachmeier (currently in a fierce battle with Jack Sears), this week, coming in at number seven, is Demitri Washington.

Washington enters the 2021 season after tearing his ACL early in the second game of the season in 2020. The injury was a devastating blow for the Broncos. Washington entered the shortened 2020 season with as much hype as any player on the Bronco’s roster. For good reason, too.

Playing behind Curtis Weaver in 2019, Washington came on strong late in the year to amass 5.5 tackles-for-loss with 4.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. New Boise State Defensive Coordinator Spencer Danielson has raved about Washington saying that he has a chance to be one of the best defensive linemen in the country and an NFL draft pick.

Washington’s talent is undeniable, but the knee injury, combined with a deep pool of talent along the defensive line, could equal a slow start for the dynamic defensive end.

Medical science has come a long way as it pertains to ACL injuries, but the season opener is around 10 months from Washington’s injury. He has been limited this offseason and will almost definitely be taking the field in Orlando at less than 100%.

Injury concerns aside, this list is counting down the most talented players on the Boise State roster and Demitri Washington certainly qualifies. I would expect a slow start for Washington but watch out when he gets his legs under him in the back half of the 2021 season.

Let us know if you agree or disagree in the comments. Embrace debate as we eagerly await the 2021 college football season.