I truly believe that Boise State is not nearly as good as many think. While their defense put up some impressive stats, you also have to remember that Lousiana Tech scored 20 on 'em. Oregon State (not Oregon) hung 24 points on 'em. Nevada hit 'em up for 34. They were impressive in shutting out Fresno State and San Jose State and New Mexico State. Almost shut out Wyoming. On the other hand, we shut out Vanderbilt last year and almost shut out Louisiana-Lafayette and Idaho State. Heck, for that matter, we almost shut out UCF! So what does that mean?
But I don't know if they would hold South Carolina to 17. Not sure how they would have done against Arkansas, Mississippi State, Auburn, or even Florida. Not that they would have lost any of those games (since I can't prove it), but I simply doubt their record would have been as pristine or their defensive stats as impressive against that same lineup.
Come September 4th, I will readily admit to my complete ignorance of college football (I'm about ready to do that NOW) if Boise State beats us. I may even go on their message boards and congratulate them and wish them well if that happens. However, I don't think that will be necessary. I believe we will win the game, and do so largely at the line of scrimmage. (That's because I don't think we are likely to win it in the SECONDARY

).
Remember, Hawaii came to the Sugar Bowl with some GAUDY stats and VERY LOUD fans who thought they were going to mop the field with us (seriously). I was there. They were supposed to have a QB who could take any team apart, and 4 (count 'em FOUR) receivers who "could start for ANY team in the SEC"! Things didn't quite work out that way.
My prognostication may be a little optimistic - okay, it's crazy - but I really do think Boise State is way overblown. South Carolina is the real test.