BOISE, Idaho -- It happened long enough ago that its become a footnote in Boise States history.Fifteen years ago, Washington State arrived in Boise and handed the Broncos a 41-20 beating. In the time since, Boise State is unbeaten in 33 non-conference regular-season games on its blue turf.Oregon visited and walked away with a loss. The same with Oregon State, Washington and BYU along the way.And now the Cougars return to Boise State on Saturday night for a game with increased importance for Washington States psyche. The Broncos must have a win to be part of the national conversation as the season goes on.The urgency for Washington State comes after the Cougars stumbled for the second straight year in an opener against an FCS program. Last year it was Portland State. This time, it was neighboring Eastern Washington pulling out a 45-42 victory.But traveling to Boise State presents itself as the kind of game Washington State could win considering the circumstances. Its what the Cougars did last season on their way to nine wins, many of those coming when they were least expected. That team displayed its resilience immediately after the opening loss to Portland State last season by winning on the road at Rutgers.Does this group have the same resolve?Maybe we have a certain mentality on the road, like us against the world, Washington State quarterback Luke Falk said. Maybe we need to get that at home.Washington States loss in the opener was also a potential setback for the Broncos. Washington State was supposed to be the marquee opponent on the Broncos non-conference slate that still includes Oregon State and BYU.We certainly have a big challenge trying to slow those guys down, Boise State coach Bryan Harsin said.Other things to watch as the Broncos and Cougars meet for just the fifth time:FAMILY TREE: Excuse Boise State quarterback Brett Rypien for disagreeing with some members of his family this week. Rypiens uncle, Mark, is in the Washington State athletic hall of fame and he has also been one of his nephews major supporters.Except for this week. The Rypien clans loyalties are split. Everyone wants to see Brett have a good game and hes coming off throwing for more than 300 yards in the firs