BY JEFF CAVES

The fact that Boise State lost to Oklahoma State isn’t such a tragedy. The fact that they lost by 23 to a #24 ranked team is an issue for most fans.

We are talking ego here and that’s nothing to mess with. Or, some call it pride.

I’m going with ego. Getting thrown out of the Power 5 beaters club is painful. Getting pushed, bloodied and breaking bones while being tossed out the door is embarrassing. Never mind that Boise State was in very hostile territory. In fact, this was the toughest road game of the Harsin era to me. The BYU game in 2015 was in front of more fans perhaps but the heat, humidity and intensity of the crowd was superior in Stillwater. They were drinking beer in the morning, in the stadium and listening to Garth at the game for god sake.

Even Harsin addressed the ego and said that it had be checked at the door after this lopsided loss. And, he started with himself, the staff and players. Let’s throw in fans too. I’m included in that lot but TRY to keep a different perspective.

Like most media guys, I get access to players, coaches and staff. Unlike most media guys, I also spend a lot of time with business people, fund raisers and sales people. It gives you a different perspective. It develops a deeper appreciation for the results Boise State has gotten in the past and humbles you to not expect the same results will just magically appear in the future. It has taught me how amazing it is that Boise State has gotten the national reputation it has earned. I can also understand that it’s the wins the national fans remember not the losses. Coach Pete was awesome for Boise St but still lost bowl games, to Nevada , TCU and at home to San Diego State.

Remember?

My logical brain said Boise State was going to lose this game to Ok State but my emotional/ego fan blinded side said Go with the Broncos! So , I did. It didn’t work out.

Boise State doesn’t deserve a Top 25 ranking. They have to earn it. Saturday, they found that out. Time to check egos at the door.