BOISE, Idaho — For the first time in school history, a freshman will lead the Boise State offense in the season opener.

Coach Chris Petersen named redshirt freshman Kellen Moore the Broncos' starting quarterback Wednesday, ending a lengthy battle with senior Bush Hamden.

Petersen says Moore has great football savvy, understands the offense and has performed consistently throughout spring and fall camps.

Moore was named player of the year in Washington in 2006 and set state records for completions and touchdown passes and a handful of single-season marks during his career at Prosser High School. Last year, Moore was relegated to the Broncos' scout team.

Petersen's decision means another year as backup for Hamden, who lost out last season to Taylor Tharp, who earned second-team All-WAC honors.