The Bowl Buster: Will Any Mountain West Teams Break Into The New Year's Six?

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Post on Feb 08, 2025

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The Bowl Buster: Will Any Mountain West Teams Break into the New Year's Six?

The Mountain West Conference (MWC) has consistently produced strong football programs, but breaking into the coveted New Year's Six bowls remains a significant hurdle. This year, however, a few teams possess the potential to make a serious run, challenging the established powerhouses and potentially securing a spot in college football's most prestigious postseason games. But what will it take? Let's delve into the possibilities and analyze the challenges facing MWC hopefuls.

The Contenders: Assessing Mountain West Powerhouses

Several MWC teams are entering the season with legitimate aspirations of a New Year's Six bowl bid. Success hinges on a combination of factors: conference dominance, strong non-conference wins, and avoiding crucial upsets. Let's examine some of the key players:

San Diego State Aztecs:

The Aztecs have consistently been a top contender in the MWC, boasting a strong defense and a potent running game. Their success hinges on:

• Maintaining Conference Dominance: A flawless or near-flawless conference record is paramount. Any slip-ups within the MWC will significantly diminish their chances.
• High-Profile Non-Conference Wins: A victory over a Power Five opponent is practically a necessity. The strength of schedule will be heavily scrutinized by the selection committee.
• Avoiding Upsets: One unexpected loss can derail the entire season. Consistency and focus are crucial.

Boise State Broncos:

Boise State, a perennial MWC powerhouse, is always a threat. Their success depends on:

• Offensive Explosion: The Broncos need a potent offense to complement their usually strong defense. Scoring points against top opponents will be key.
• Key Non-Conference Matchups: Similar to San Diego State, a convincing win against a strong opponent outside the MWC is essential.
• Staying Healthy: Injuries can cripple any team, but for Boise State, maintaining a healthy roster is particularly critical.

Air Force Falcons:

Air Force, with its unique triple-option offense, presents a unique challenge to opposing defenses. Their path to the New Year's Six involves:

• Dominating the MWC: Their unorthodox offense can lead to unexpected wins, but consistency in conference play is a must.
• Capitalizing on Non-Conference Opportunities: A victory against a highly ranked opponent would send shockwaves through the college football world.
• Minimizing Turnovers: The triple-option's inherent risk lies in turnovers. Protecting the ball is crucial for success.

The Obstacles: Why It's So Difficult for MWC Teams

Even with strong performances, several significant obstacles stand in the way of an MWC team reaching the New Year's Six:

• Strength of Schedule: The MWC is generally perceived as a weaker conference compared to the Power Five. The committee heavily weighs strength of schedule when selecting teams.
• Head-to-Head Matchups: If an MWC team and a Power Five team with similar records face off, the Power Five team typically has the advantage.
• Committee Bias: While the committee aims for objectivity, inherent biases might subtly influence their decisions.

The Verdict: A Long Shot, But Not Impossible

Reaching the New Year's Six remains a challenging feat for any Mountain West team. However, with a combination of dominant conference play, decisive victories against strong non-conference opponents, and a bit of luck, it's not entirely out of the realm of possibility. The 2023 season will be a crucial test for the MWC's top contenders, showcasing their ability to compete on the national stage and potentially shatter the glass ceiling. The bowl season will be a nail-biter, with the possibility of a major upset sending shockwaves through the college football world. Keep an eye on the Mountain West; a surprise might be brewing.