Boise State Football: A New Defensive Era Begins
The 2025 season finale for Boise State football was a tough pill to swallow, especially for Frank Maile, the team’s defensive analyst. Watching from the sidelines, Maile saw the Broncos struggle against Washington in the LA Bowl, surrendering 355 yards and five touchdowns in a 38-10 loss. It was a game that could have reestablished Boise State's reputation as "giant killers," but instead highlighted defensive vulnerabilities.
Maile, who has a rich history coaching the defensive line at various schools, including a previous stint at Boise State, was particularly concerned with the line’s performance. Notably, the line failed to contribute to any of the team’s five sacks during the game.
As 2026 approaches, Maile is determined to turn things around. With his promotion to defensive line coach in January, he now has the reins to directly influence the line's performance on the field. Head coach Spencer Danielson described Maile’s promotion as a “monster hire” in the offseason, underscoring the confidence in Maile’s ability to reshape the defense.
Reflecting on the loss, Maile shared, “We had a couple of weeks to sit in that loss, which was rough. But I like where their mindset is at.” He emphasized the importance of mental toughness in his first meeting with the team, setting the tone for a transformative offseason and winter training focused on building the right mindset.
The defensive line faces the challenge of replacing its 2025 leader, Braxton Fely, who graduated. However, they return with a solid core of experienced players, including redshirt senior David Latu, redshirt junior Michael Madrie, and redshirt sophomore Lopez Sanusi.
Maile is also excited about newcomers like Central Washington transfer Mikaio Edward and incoming freshmen Paz St. John and Rowan Rupp, the latter graduating from Rocky Mountain High School in Meridian this spring.
“We’ve got to be mentally tough,” Maile stressed. “The beginning of the journey is all about mindset; that’s happening right now. In the end, we need to be the most physical group on the football field.”
The real test for Maile’s revamped line begins in late March, with Boise State announcing spring practices from March 26 to April 25, culminating in the spring game at Albertsons Stadium. This year, the camp starts right after spring break, a shift from the usual schedule, pushing players to maintain focus and intensity.
“I like that there is a grind involved in that schedule,” Maile said. “It tests their mind, their mindset, their mentality. I’m all about straining these guys as much as possible, and now is the time to callous their mentality.”
With a new season on the horizon, Boise State’s defensive line is gearing up for a fresh start, driven by Maile’s vision and leadership. The challenge is set, and the Broncos are ready to rise to it.