Boise State faced questions ahead of their 2024 campaign, with interim head coach Spencer Danielson embarking on his first full season as a head coach of a college football program looking to translate a talented roster into wins. It was a task that he would excel at, leading Boise to a stellar season.
Spencer Danielson’s Coaching Journey
Spencer Danielson’s first coaching role came in his alma mater Azusa Pacific as the program’s linebackers coach and recruiting coordinator. His success at Azusa Pacific landed him in the AFCA’s under-30 coaches’ leadership institute.
Danielson started his Boise State career as a graduate assistant for seven seasons, at the very bottom of the coaching order. He eventually worked his way up to co-defensive coordinator and STUD coach in 2019-2020. He performed well, earning the defensive coordinator coordinator role from 2021-2023.
During his tenure, the Broncos’ scoring defense impressed, ranking 12th, 15th, and 59th in the country, developing players like defensive tackle Scott Matlock, safety JL Skinner, and defensive end Ahmed Hassanien.
After a disappointing season from head coach Andy Avalos, Danielson was made the new man in charge and finished 3-1.
How Boise State Succeeded
Despite being a defensive coordinator, Boise State’s success came from their high-powered offense, which ranked fifth in the country. While Boise’s defense still retained playmakers like Hassanien and edge-rusher Jayden Virgin. But this season was all about the offense.
Quarterback Maddux Madsen led the passing attack with 3018 passing yards and 23 touchdowns. Running back Ashton Jeanty lit up the field like a Christmas tree. As the engine of the offense, Jeanty rushed for 26001 yards and 29 touchdowns, nearly breaking Barry Sanders’ record for most rushing yards in a season, which led to him finishing second in Heisman voting.
Boise State’s receiving game was not to be messed with either. Wide receiver Cam Camper led the way with 903 receiving yards, while tight end Matt Lauter added seven receiving touchdowns to the offense.
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All of this was possible thanks to Danielson’s stellar coaching, which earned him the Mountain West Coach of the Year award and made him a finalist for the Eddie Robinson and Paul Bryant Coach of the Year awards. He was also a finalist in the AFCA National Coach of the Year award.
All of this was achieved in just one full season at Boise State. He’s, without a doubt, one of the great young coaches of college football. In terms of coaching grades, Danielson receives an easy A grade in terms of this breakout season for both Danielson and Boise State.
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