SALT LAKE CITY - During the Western Athletic Conference pre-season meetings, both the coaches and media members cast their ballots to predict who they think will win the conference this football season.

The verdict? A split decision. The coaches picked Fresno State to finish first - with seven first place for the Bulldogs. Boise State grabbed second place with two first place votes. The University of Idaho finished in eight place out of nine teams in the coaches poll.

Among the media, Boise State came out on top with 25 first place votes, followed closely by Fresno State with 20 votes. Idaho took the 8th spot, ahead of Utah State.

The media also selected pre-season players of the year - with Boise State senior Ian Johnson taking home Offensive Player of the Year honors. Hawai'i linebacker Solomon Elimimian took home defensive honors.

MEDIA POLL

1- Boise State
2- Fresno State
3- Nevada
4- Hawai'i
5- Louisiana Tech
6- San Jose State
7- New Mexico State
8- Idaho
9- Utah State

COACHES POLL

1- Fresno State
2- Boise State
3- Nevada
4- Hawai'i
5- Louisiana Tech
5- San Jose State (tie)
7- New Mexico State
8- Idaho
9- Utah State