Boise State’s football facility can be a secretive place, its own little island on campus, but there is one thing that no one is shy to disclose: Junior linebacker Leighton Vander Esch is expected to have a big year.
The Riggins native and Salmon River High graduate has 47 career tackles, a sack and an interception. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, he should make his first career start Sept. 2 against Troy at Albertsons Stadium at the weakside spot occupied recently by Ben Weaver and Tyler Gray.
“He’s definitely going to be a breakout guy for us,” junior quarterback Brett Rypien said.