Boise State Football: A New Era with Terrence Brown
Boise State football is shaking things up this winter with a significant coaching overhaul, bringing in fresh talent to energize the program. The standout change?
The hiring of Terrence Brown as the new defensive backs coach and co-defensive coordinator. This move marks a shift from the traditional setup where separate coaches handled safeties and cornerbacks.
Now, under Brown's leadership, these roles are unified.
Brown, who’s no stranger to overseeing all defensive back positions, shared, “At my past stops, we’ve kept the defensive backs in one room. So I’ve been familiar and accustomed to coaching all five positions over the past years.”
His experience includes a four-year stint with the Cal Golden Bears, where he worked under Justin Wilcox, a former Boise State defensive coordinator. Brown also brings expertise from his time at Washington, coaching under Chris Petersen and Jimmy Lake.
The Broncos’ defensive backfield will see some fresh faces this season. With key players like Jeremiah Earby, A’Marion McCoy, and Davon Banks having played their final games in 2025, it’s time for new talent to step up.
Redshirt senior cornerback Jaden Mickey, a transfer from Notre Dame, is expected to be a starting fixture. Meanwhile, players like redshirt senior Demetrius Freeney Jr., junior Sherrod Smith, and redshirt junior safety Derek Ganter Jr. are all vying for significant playing time.
Brown is focused on giving everyone a fair shot, emphasizing, “I think everybody gets a fresh slate. They get a chance to get acclimated to my philosophy and the way in which I coach.” He’s keen on not letting a lack of experience overshadow potential, stating, “The best players are going to see the field.”
A key part of Brown’s strategy is his holistic approach to coaching the entire defensive back group. He believes this fosters a deeper understanding of the game and ensures that everyone is aligned with the team’s defensive strategies. Flexibility is also crucial for Brown, as he values the versatility to move players around, enhancing their development and the team’s adaptability.
Brown’s track record speaks volumes, having coached six defensive backs to the NFL, including All-Pro and two-time Super Bowl champion Trent McDuffie of the Kansas City Chiefs. His philosophy is about creating a unified culture, where every player is tuned into the same goals and messages, both in meetings and on the field.
With Brown at the helm, Boise State’s defense is poised for an exciting transformation, ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season with renewed vigor and a fresh perspective.