No. 10 Boise State achieved a significant victory over No. 20 UNLV, securing the Mountain West Conference title and an anticipated berth in the College Football Playoff. The Broncos delivered a decisive performance, winning 21-7 in the championship game held in Boise, Idaho, and showcased their dominance with a striking 75-yard touchdown run by Heisman contender Ashton Jeanty right before halftime.
Jeanty demonstrated remarkable skill, amassing 209 rushing yards and capping off his impressive season with a total of 2,499 yards, placing him fourth for the most rushing yards in a single season, surpassing the legendary Marcus Allen from USC. His phenomenal play kept the crowd engaged, eliciting chants of his name from enthusiastic fans.
Boise State quickly established a firm grip on the game, with quarterback Maddux Madsen adding a second touchdown just minutes before Jeanty’s electrifying run. UNLV struggled offensively throughout the match, missing scoring opportunities, including a field goal in the first half and failing to capitalize on a critical fourth-down situation late in the game.
With this victory, Boise State is projected to secure a first-round bye in the upcoming College Football Playoff, likely earning them a No. 4 seed, contingent on the outcomes of other championship games. This accomplishment is an impressive feat for a team from a non-power conference, especially with their only loss of the season coming in a closely contested game against the undefeated Oregon.
Meanwhile, UNLV, despite a commendable season that marked their second 10-win record in history, faces a bittersweet outcome as they anticipate participation in a non-playoff bowl game. The season, however, still presents the Rebels with the chance to make history by qualifying for back-to-back bowl games for the first time.
This win for Boise State is not only a testament to their hard work and resilience throughout the season but also serves as an inspiring story for both the team and its fans. The Broncos’ journey in the College Football Playoff is eagerly awaited, and they embody the potential for excellence that can emerge from dedicated programs outside the traditional powerhouses of college football.