Boise State secured the Mountain West Conference title and a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff by defeating No. 20 UNLV 21-7 in a decisive championship matchup held in Boise, Idaho. The standout performer of the game was Ashton Jeanty, who rushed for an impressive 209 yards and a touchdown, solidifying his status as a Heisman contender.
Jeanty’s remarkable performance included a 75-yard touchdown run just before halftime, contributing to a dominant first-half display from the Broncos. He now boasts a season total of 2,499 rushing yards, surpassing former USC running back Marcus Allen for the fourth-most rushing yards in a single NCAA season. Fans were vocal in their support, chanting Jeanty’s name during the second half as he showcased his ability to drive the team forward.
Boise State’s offense was efficient, with quarterback Maddux Madsen adding another touchdown to stretch the lead to 14-0 shortly before the halftime break. Despite a valiant effort from UNLV, including an 86-yard run by Kylin James, the Rebels struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, missing a field goal and failing to convert on crucial fourth-down situations.
As the game drew to a close, UNLV included a late score, but their attempts to narrow the deficit were thwarted, leaving the final score at 21-7 in favor of the Broncos. This victory not only secures Boise State a place in the College Football Playoff but also positions them likely as a top seed, potentially even earning a first-round bye.
UNLV, despite the defeat, can take pride in achieving its second 10-win season in school history and is set to make its first back-to-back bowl game appearances. Their journey has marked an exciting chapter for the program, showing promise for future seasons.
Boise State’s triumph is a testament to their resilience and competitive spirit throughout the season. With only one loss to an undefeated Oregon team, the Broncos have demonstrated they belong among the elite programs in college football. As they prepare for the playoffs, fans and players alike can look forward to what lies ahead, hopeful for further success and recognition on the national stage.