Maddux Madsen, Sire Gaines return as No. 24 Boise State gets good news ahead of Oregon matchup

Broncos regain three players

Madsen, Gaines and Anderson were listed as active in Boise State’s final Week 11 player availability report, released Saturday afternoon. The No. 24 Broncos (8-1, 5-0 Pac-12) host Oregon State (5-4, 3-2) at Albertsons Stadium, with kickoff set for 4 p.m. Mountain time.

Madsen suffered an undisclosed lower-body injury during the fourth quarter of Boise State’s win over Texas State. Max Cutforth replaced him and played five near-perfect quarters, including a five-touchdown performance against Colorado State.

Madsen trends toward return

Boise State coach Spencer Danielson said Thursday that Madsen had practiced during the week and that he felt good about the quarterback’s progress. Danielson added that the team would work with its trainers before making an official determination.

“Maddux has been able to practice this week,” Danielson said. He also praised Cutforth’s work during the week, saying the team would continue to assess the situation.

Gaines returns after absences

Gaines missed the last two games because of an undisclosed lower-body injury. He had also been sidelined for two earlier games with a wrist injury. This season, Gaines has recorded 75 carries for 418 yards and four touchdowns. His availability gives Boise State another option in its backfield against the Beavers.

Oregon State adjusts at quarterback

Starting quarterback Braden Atkinson is out after suffering a hand injury in last week’s loss to Texas State. He has thrown for 3,169 yards and 25 touchdowns, with three interceptions, and is the nation’s leading passer.