Nick Patti, the much anticipated Boise State's new Orlando and 1st ever 4 star recruit was a relief for many of the packed west side bleachers as they seemed to unanimously confirm the hype with his play. With many holding their breathe on each of his possessions, swagger was seen, pocket presence provided, and long receptions recorded. Patti produced more than stats on this April evening, he provided what most came to see, hope.
Boise State Football fans have been spoiled for several years now as the football program has evolved and become the buzz of national headlines and bywords of SEC bowl blogs. Oversights, and under-sights have plagued the chances of this gritty organization, which has shown resilience and most recently been the subject of more "if then" statements than any other team in recent memory. Scrappy Boise State now resurfaces with a lingering black eye from 2 years ago, a fresh broken nose from last season and still catching its breath from a gut-check by the expected off-season fleecing of much of the successful coaching staff. In their defense, many of whom left realizing BSU, and by extension they themselves, may never again be in the situation they were in these last few seasons, especially with no more Moore.
College and professional sports is littered with evidence of grass is greener mentality. Truth is, with the money element, it will always be. What we had with Martin and Moore, Petersen and crew was rare and seemingly uncontrived at the time. What we had was special. What we enjoyed is over..."Unless!" Echoes of this word could be felt when UCLA came a knockin' and the ramifications of the NFL absorbing Oregon's coaching staff might have on Petersen were thought of. Petersen has doubled down on Boise by turning down some serious coin.
One question that must be answered on Petersen's quest for greatness surrounds this years QB slot. Will this be a total rebuilding year giving Southwick his stage and red-shirting Patti to take the helm as they enter the Big East in 2013? Or, will they split the position evenly while Petersen hedges his bet? With many talented linemen returning, it will inevitably be a tough decision to make. Whether rebuilding this season or not, Boise State will not start the season in the top ten and therefore the red-shirt hand may be forced. During this game, however, the similarities between Moore and Patti were palpable as balls were thrown crisply, authoritatively, and to seemingly well covered receivers in coverage as another piece to the 2012 jigsaw snapped into place.
-Darron Smith
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