Currently, Boise State is 9-4 and has won its third consecutive Mountain West conference title, defeating UNLV 38-21. The Broncos are heading to their next game, a bowl game against Washington, which is 8-4 and is coached by Jedd Fisch in his second season. This game will start at 8 PM ET on December 13, 2025, at SoFi Stadium and will be viewed on ABC. These two teams are heading into this game from very different places, and because so many people are interested in this game, we can assume it will be a good one. This game has a lot of value for the teams and for the best NCAA football sportsbook.
The following is a good breakdown of the game. You will get the strengths and weaknesses of the teams, trending momentum, game-day predictions, and what to expect on game day. You will get practical betting insights, 4 fundamental insights, and the most recent projections for this game. The most important part of this breakdown is the value of this game and what will most likely determine the winner.
The Matchup That Sets the Tone
Boise State’s Championship Push and Why It Matters
Boise State comes in optimistic after capturing its conference title. It was the first conference title game in which they’ll wave their championship banner. It was a game in which it was evident they bested their competition as they played superior football in December. The quarterback won the game in the first half after tossing four touchdown passes and demonstrating full health and a brilliant game-day performance.
In the year 2025, Boise State had one of the best point differentials in the entire country as they averaged scoring 31 and giving up 23. Their defense wasn’t just giving up touchdowns, they were one of the best in their division in getting intercepting of the quarterback and flipping the field. They are going to need that opportunistic defense in spades for their matchup against Washington.
Washington is an efficient offensive machine, and Boise will need to slow the tempo of their game to be successful. They will likely need their defense to force Washington to go three and out on a couple of drives to wear out their offensive lineman. Oddly, one of Washington’s weakest spots is its run defense, where it gives up 164 total yards on the ground.
After 2025, Boise is moving to the Pac-12. The first December game will have a National audience, making it a perfect matchup for the Broncos. Boise State will be hoping to make a visible statement and consistent football. All eyes will be on the Broncos in the first Bowl game of the Postseason.
Washington’s Offensive Revival and Big-Ten Reality
It’s always good to look at wins and losses on a record, but to gain focus on other elements, Washington’s underlying success needs to be acknowledged with their most recent record of 8-4. Improvement is the name of the game. The team averaged 414 yards per game which is an improvement compared to previous seasons. In addition, the rushing game on the team reached new levels. Although they did not have a 1,000-yard rusher, as a unit, they averaged 4.5 yards per carry and accumulated close to 30 total rushing touchdowns.
The significance of this improvement is relevant in the sense that it pertains to other programs as well. Washington was able to control the tempo of the game as well as the time on the clock, which was a factor in their success. The defense was able to get a breather, and the other team’s offense was limited as well.
The season was not as perfect, as there were struggles with the mid and top-level Big 10 schools. The teams that have a lot of speed and have a tough and directed defense. They were normally at the top, and there were pieces that teams would have that needed to be dissected and a plan of action developed.
The spell where they would be quiet in operation was possibly the most dangerous. During this time, the other program was able to riddle where the operation was lacking and deploy a plan to come back and control the clock and tempo of the game.
But now Washington has the improved program, and Boise is simply the most improved of their group. The two are now lined up against each other, and it is anybody’s game to win.
This matchup serves as a reminder of how college football bowl games often hinge on momentum as much as talent.
Why This Bowl Matters Beyond the Matchup
The Bucked Up LA Bowl begins the postseason. Being in a prime position on the schedule guarantees the game an unprecedented level of visibility that will instantly generate narratives throughout December. That visibility, in turn, benefits the programs involved in the matchup.
For Boise State, this game will cement their Legacy. Their Mountain West reign will come to an end this season, and there would be no better way to cap it off on prime time against a Power 5 conference opponent. It will also greatly benefit their recruiting efforts as the university aims to make its transition to the Pac-12.
For Washington, this game is about building a Legacy as well. Stability and Validation are the names of the game. By the end of the 2022 season, Year 2 under Jedd Fisch will have shown substantial offensive improvement. However, the team will still need to prove its capability to perform during a big game if it hopes to inspire its fans and players to truly buy in and believe the future of the program is bright.
For the game, December mid-tier bowls have much to gain as well. It will likely set the tone for the December bowl games. A high-scoring, well-contested matchup would likely draw attention to a game slot that is often overlooked.
Both teams have business to finish. They have something to prove to the nation. They understand the visibility a SoFi Stadium showcase brings.
How This Game Could Actually Play Out
Tempo and Possession
Washington prefers sustained drives. If their run game averages 4.5+ yards early, they’ll control the clock and wear down Boise’s defensive front. Boise, on the other hand, likes to play fast and force early down completions to keep their defense on the sideline. If Madsen is able to complete early throws and the Broncos push tempo, Washington’s defense will be forced to react one play at a time.
Turnovers Will Matter
Boise’s 14 interceptions to end the year show how clutch their secondary is capable of being. They jump coverages and capitalize on hesitation by quarterbacks to flip the field position when necessary. If Washington’s quarterback takes a bit too long on a read, the game could quickly change direction for them.
Red-Zone Efficiency
Washington’s run game is greeted by opposition defensive fronts the most when they get down to the 20. Boise’s defense, however, also steps up in the red zone. The team that gets a touchdown on red zone appearances, and not a field goal, will gain a significant edge.
Projected Flow
A close first half is in the cards. If Washington’s physicality takes over the game in the 2nd half, Boise’s opportunistic style of play is likely to keep them in the game. Current projections show a 29-23 Washington win, making it a one-score game with plenty of chance at an upset on the line.
Expert Insights
Watch Madsen’s Opening Rhythm
A likely indicator of pace and confidence is if Boise’s quarterback completes the majority of his early attempts. If Madsen is sharp in the beginning, the entirety of Boise’s offense functions at a higher rate.
Track Washington’s Early Rushing Efficiency
The average number of yards gained per carry during the initial 8-10 attempts is extremely telling. If Washington gets over 4.5 yards of rushing early on, they will most likely dominate the game clock.
First Turnover Usually Swings Momentum
An early interception or fumble recovery usually leads to scoring from a short distance, and since Boise is very dependent on defensive turnovers, this early defensive success will be very beneficial.
Spread Considerations
Washington might win, but Boise State covering +8.5 is a strong value position for bettors expecting a one-score game.
Totals Depend on Tempo
The projected total of near the low-50s is reachable, but that depends on both teams finding some rhythm early on. If there are slow starts, penalties, or conservative play-calling, that projection becomes unreachable.
Motivation Factor
This is Boise State’s last game as a Mountain West program. Teams in transition often show elevated urgency in bowl settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the Bucked Up LA Bowl?
A: It’s the first bowl game in the 2025–26 postseason, set to take place in SoFi Stadium, starting with the Boise State vs Washington game, which will be televised nationwide in prime time.
Q: Why were these teams selected?
A: Since Washington was the Power Five school assigned to the bowl, the Mountain West champion, Boise State, was granted the LA Bowl invitation.
Q: What is the offensive vs. defensive comparison?
A: Boise State forced 14 turnovers while also averaging an offensive output above 31 ppg. Washington averaged in the ballpark of 400 yards offensively, with considerable improvements in their rushing efforts.
Q: Is Boise State a good pick as the underdog?
A: At opening at +8.5, Boise State’s emotional drive, defensive momentum, and recent close game efforts make them a strong underdog pick.
Q: What’s the biggest risk with betting the line or total?
A: There is always a chance that a game opened with sloppy or conservative playcalling, but Washington’s momentum in possessing the ball could greatly limit overall offensive efforts, in turn, finishing the game with a score lower than expected.
Q: What will be told in the game’s first minutes?
A: If either team’s defense is able to force a turnover or if either offense is able to efficiently convert on the W’s third-down attempts, the game will be greatly influenced. Also, take a close look at the run game.
Q: What is the national relevance of this event?
A: It opens the season of NCAA football bowl games, and since it is the season’s first event, it is played by a conference champion. This also offers participants the opportunity to present an organizational identity and gain momentum that carries into 2026.
Q: How to Bet Over/Under in Bowl Games?
A: Start with pace and scoring averages. In college football totals betting, unfamiliar matchups make defensive gaps more important. If both offenses move the ball consistently, the over is reasonable; if turnovers or slow drives show up, the under becomes the smarter play.
What This Game Tells Us Next
The postseason begins with Boise State vs. Washington. It will be a game with energy and unpredictability and will carry a postseason weight. Boise State is a championship-winning team and comes with a strong defense that can swing games and a lot of momentum. Washington is a balanced team with a strong offense and a chance to prove that they are a team on the rise.
Three key takeaways:
- First, Boise State’s defense certainly gives them a chance to pull off the upset.
- Second, Washington’s rushing attack is likely the biggest advantage to either team in this matchup.
- Finally, whether the game remains close or a blitz of points comes in the end is determined by tempo and turnovers.
For people placing bets, this is a game with a lot of depth to it. Going to a reputable NCAA football sportsbook like BetNow makes a lot of sense when looking to place a bet on this matchup.
Both teams will do great in the SoFi prime-time matchup, and you should, too. Use your instincts and place your bets with BetNow to beat the rush.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: December 9, 2025
Last updated: December 10, 2025