Five Players who Shined in the Spring Game

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It’s often noted that first impressions are key in a job interview. For the Broncos, the spring game acts as a first impression for players and coaches alike.

Since it’s the first time this season that the Blue turf is open to the public, new players, player performance, and player roles makeup much of what to watch for.

Last years Boise State squad saw 17 seniors and one highly talented junior in Jeremy McNichols exit the program. Because of this, the Broncos are obligated to make the necessary adjustments for both the starter and contribution roles alike.

This is where spring ball comes in to play.









Five Powerful First Impressions

Ryan Wolpin (SR-RB), Trabuco Canyon, CA

Wolpin has been with the Broncos since he first redshirted in 2014. He’s a transfer from the University of Northern Colorado.

Wolpin has been a key role player for the Broncos the past few seasons. Contributing primarily on special teams, Wolpin has brought with him the mental toughness and high energy needed to electrify the running back position.

With potential starter Alexander Mattison out for the spring game, the reps at running back rested primarily upon the shoulders of both Wolpin and red-shirt freshman Robert Mahone.

Wolpin, who played for team Broncos, shined in the spring game. Having arguably the best statistical performance for any Boise State football player, Wolpin showed Bronco Nation he’s ready for a larger role.

Wolpin finished the day with 74 rushing yards on 17 attempts and a score. He also had 20 receiving yards.

Touchdown Broncos! Wolpin carries in from the 1! Velazquez hits the PAT, and its 7-0 Broncos with 2:32 left in 1Q — Boise State Football (@BroncoSportsFB) April 8, 2017









A.J. Richardson (JR-WR), Lomita, CA

Much like that of Ryan Wolpin, Richardson has been with the Broncos since he redshirted in 2014.

Richardson has made steady progress in his time with the Broncos.

In his freshman season (2015), he contributed 113 yards receiving and extended 2 offensive drives in the last game of the season at San Jose State. These 2 completions went for 21 and 14 yards respectively.

His sophomore season saw him earn his first touchdown as a Bronco. This came on an 11 yard reception against Colorado State.

With the likes of Chaz Anderson and Thomas Sperbeck graduating, the wide receiver position is calling for its replacements.

With Cedrick Wilson coming back for his senior campaign, one spot is all but gone. However, two potential starting jobs need filled.

A.J. Richardson showed at the Spring game that he might be the guy to start alongside Wilson. The junior receiver had 74 yards receiving on 4 attempts including a nifty 34 yard reception from quarterback Jake Constantine.

AJ Richardson with a nice over-the-shoulder catch for 34 yards from Constantine! 1st down at the Bronco 41 — Boise State Football (@BroncoSportsFB) April 8, 2017









Avery Williams (FR-DB), Pasadena, CA

Avery Williams, though only a redshirt freshman, has provided the Broncos with that extra spark of energy.

As a walk-on, Williams earned himself Special Teams Scout Player of the Year last season.

Coming into this spring, the coaching staff has put Williams at many positions. Though listed as a cornerback, Williams has also played running back, nickle, and punt returner.

Williams had the only turnover in the Spring game. Picking off quarterback Brett Rypien, Williams has shown that he can contribute for the Blue and Orange come fall.

Avery Williams comes up with the interception! Boise State takes over at its own 47. 1:08 left in the half — Boise State Football (@BroncoSportsFB) April 8, 2017

Rathen Ricedorff (JR-QB), Show Low, AZ

This spring has brought much hype to the quarterback position. Though Rypien will probably start for the Broncos, it’s intriguing to see who will compete for playing time.

A name that could earn playing time this fall is JUCO transfer Rathen Ricedorff. Coming from Mesa Community College, Ricedorff had himself a powerful last season with the Thunderbirds. Throwing for 3,688 yards and 42 touchdowns, Ricedorff earned himself the National Junior College Athletic Association Player of the Year.

For most of the spring game, the quarterback position saw Brett Rypien and Jake Constantine take most of the reps. However, when Ricedorff saw his named called, he capitalized on the opportunity.

Ricedorff saw the last two series of the game. In that time, he threw 1 ball for 17 yards.

He also used his legs to score one of only 2 touchdowns on the day for either side.

Touchdown Team Boise State! Rathen Ricedorff scrambles in from 11 yards out with 0:05 on the clock — Boise State Football (@BroncoSportsFB) April 9, 2017

Ricedorff showed that he is prepared to contribute when his name is called.

Sean Modster (JR-WR), Mission Viejo, CA

Sean Modster has been with the Broncos since he redshirted in 2014. Coming into this season, Modster has participated in a combined 18 games for the Broncos. His best performance came last season against BYU where he had 82 yards receiving on four catches.









Much like that of A.J. Richardson, Modster comes into this season ready to earn a significant amount of playing time. It’s possible that Modster could also start opposite of Cedrick Wilson.

In the spring game, Modster had 37 yards receiving on five receptions. Those five receptions were a game high.

Going forward into fall, Modster has shown that he can consistently contribute for the Broncos. Look for him as he enters his junior campaign.

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