Dylan Riley Leads Nation in Rushing for Boise State
The Boise State running back has paced the country through six games as the team holds a 5-1 record.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Football
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Boise State running back Dylan Riley currently leads the nation in rushing yards after a strong start to the 2026 season. The team is currently ranked 23rd in the national AP Poll and maintains a five-game winning streak.
Why it matters
Riley has become the focal point of the Boise State offense as the team seeks to secure a berth in the College Football Playoff. His increased physical stature and performance have been central to the team's current 5-1 record.
Dylan Riley has accumulated 835 rushing yards on 127 carries, averaging 6.6 yards per attempt while scoring six touchdowns. He added 11 pounds of muscle in the offseason and paired with Sire Gaines for 334 total yards against Fresno State.
The players
Dylan Riley
He is a standout running back for Boise State who serves as the primary ball carrier for the university's offense.
Sire Gaines
He is a running back who rotates with Riley in the Boise State backfield to share the offensive workload.
Ashton Jeanty
He is a former Boise State running back who led the nation in rushing yards during the 2024 season.
The details
Riley serves as the primary ball carrier for the Boise State offense, operating within a backfield rotation alongside teammate Sire Gaines. The team is currently ranked 23rd in the AP Poll and is positioning itself for a postseason run.
Timeline
2024: Riley joined Boise State while Ashton Jeanty led the nation.
2025: Riley recorded 1,125 total rushing yards.
September 26, 2026: Boise State defeated Western Michigan.
October 15, 2026: The current reporting date.
October 24, 2026: Boise State is scheduled to play Washington State.
Season Trajectory
The team's current standing at 23rd in the AP Poll places them in the national conversation for a College Football Playoff berth. Their performance will be tested further when they face Washington State on October 24.
Riley’s 835 yards and 6.6 yards per carry average make him a high-value asset for fantasy rosters and offensive efficiency metrics. His workload, including 44 touches against Fresno State, indicates he remains the clear featured back in the rotation.
The takeaway
Riley illustrates how an intensive offseason training program can lead to a breakout season for a college athlete. Maintaining this high volume of carries requires strict physical management to ensure the player remains durable through the postseason.
What happens next
Boise State is scheduled to play a significant matchup against Washington State on October 24, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Boise Football section.
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