The Boise State Broncos host Fresno State for the Mountain West championship on Saturday, it's a unique scenario as this marks the fourth time in a little over a calendar year that these teams matchup against one another.
"I can name pretty much name every single guy on their defense at this point by name that just shows you how much we have played these guys," said Boise State quarterback Brett Rypien. "It's going to be a battle."
This game features the Mountain West Conference's offensive and defensive players of the year, Brett Rypien leads the Broncos while linebacker Jeff Allison is a focal point for the best defense in the conference.
Three weeks ago the Broncos were able to overcome a 14 point second half deficit sparked by the ground attack with Alexander Mattison.
"It sucks to come here for the third time after losing the first two times but we just want to come out and compete," said Allison.
It has been a rivalry dominated by Boise State who has won 16 of the last 18 matchups including the Mountain West championship in 2014 and last year, Fresno State has never won on the blue.
"It is a place that has a lot of tradition, they have won a lot here so it doesn't come easy you have to earn it no doubt about it," said Fresno State head coach Jeff Tedford.
"Boise is a special place and the blue field it means something to us," said Boise State head coach Bryan Harsin. "A lot of it has to do with the people that are in the stadium that are helping us and our fan base and Bronco Nation."
The championship game also gives the Boise State seniors one more chance to play at home and defend the iconic blue turf.
"Emotions are everywhere, I know a lot of guys are feeling it you can see it the vibe is there so I know it is going to be a very special night," said Broncos cornerback Tyler Horton.
On the other side of the ball you have to marvel at the job that Boise State defensive coordinator Andy Avalos has done considering how many key players the Broncos have lost due to injuries.
Fresno State quarterback Marcus McMaryion has only thrown three interceptions all year and it will be interesting to watch the matchup between Bulldogs wide receiver KeeSean Johnson and Broncos quarterback Tyler Horton.
A spot in the Fiesta Bowl could also be on the line but that depends on if Memphis can beat UCF and that game will be over before the Mountain West championship starts.
