The No. 10 Boise State Broncos triumphed over the No. 20 UNLV Rebels, claiming the Mountain West Conference title and securing a spot in the College Football Playoff. Boise State dominated the game with a commanding 21-7 victory, thanks in large part to Heisman contender Ashton Jeanty, who showcased his talents with an impressive 209 rushing yards and a touchdown.
The game was effectively decided in the first half, where a pivotal moment occurred just before halftime when Jeanty executed a breathtaking 75-yard touchdown run. This play capped off a strong second quarter for Boise State, which saw them score two touchdowns within a few minutes, with Maddux Madsen also contributing a rushing touchdown of his own.
On the other hand, UNLV struggled offensively throughout the match. They had a missed field goal opportunity in the first half and failed to convert on critical downs, including a heart-stopping fourth-and-goal situation in the fourth quarter that could have tightened the score.
Boise State’s victory ensures they remain ahead of the competition for a prime seed in the College Football Playoff rankings. If all goes well, they could secure a No. 4 seed, possibly even No. 3, if Clemson defeats SMU in the ACC championship. This outcome reflects a remarkable season for Boise State, especially after a narrow loss to Oregon earlier in the year, demonstrating their resilience and capability to outperform expectations.
UNLV, despite the loss, can take pride in achieving its second ten-win season in history, something that hasn’t occurred since 1984. They may be on their way to the LA Bowl, which would mark back-to-back bowl appearances—a significant achievement for the program.
This victory for Boise State not only highlights their strength and determination but also signifies an exciting moment for non-power conference teams in college football, showcasing that with hard work and talent, they can compete at the highest levels. There’s a sense of hope and potential for both Boise State and UNLV, as they both look to build on their achievements in the postseason.