No. 10 Boise State secured their place in the College Football Playoff by defeating No. 19 UNLV 21-7 in the Mountain West championship game. Ashton Jeanty showcased his skills with an impressive 209 rushing yards and a touchdown, leading the Broncos to their second consecutive conference title.
With a record of 12-1 and a ranking of No. 10 in the CFP, Boise State is poised for a first-round playoff bye if they maintain their position above the Big 12 champion and finish among the top four conference champions.
Coach Spencer Danielson reflected on the team’s journey, recalling how they expressed their ambitions for the season during a lighthearted moment in January. “They wanted to win a conference championship and make it to the college playoffs, and they worked for that,” he said.
Quarterback Maddux Madsen contributed significantly, throwing for one touchdown and rushing for another, demonstrating his versatility on the field.
UNLV, ranked No. 20 in the CFP and boasting the seventh-best scoring offense nationally, faced a tough challenge. They had averaged 38.7 points per game this season but struggled to find their rhythm against Boise State’s defense.
UNLV coach Barry Odom acknowledged the lessons learned from championship games, stating, “You continue to learn from them and move your organization forward.” His team, having suffered two losses to Boise State this season, faced a formidable opponent.
Odom praised Boise State, saying, “Good luck to anyone who comes here and thinks they’re going to win the game. I think they’re one of the best teams in college football right now.” His respect for the Broncos was evident, as he recognized their potential to represent the conference well.
In the first quarter, Boise State capitalized on UNLV’s defensive strategy by relying on Madsen, who completed six of his first seven passes. He connected with Latrell Caples for a 22-yard touchdown, putting the Broncos ahead 7-0.
Madsen further extended the lead to 14-0 with a 14-yard touchdown run just before halftime. Following a defensive stop, Jeanty electrified the crowd with a remarkable 75-yard touchdown run, giving Boise State a commanding 21-0 lead just before the break.
UNLV attempted to rally late in the third quarter, with Kylin James making an impressive 86-yard run before being stopped at the Boise State 5-yard line. However, the Rebels were unable to capitalize and lost yards on their next four plays.
The Rebels finally found the end zone with 9:06 remaining in the game, thanks to a 31-yard run by Greg Burrell. Hajj-Malik Williams led UNLV with 110 passing yards and 56 rushing yards, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
UNLV has made significant strides under Odom, achieving their first 10-win season in 40 years. With a focus on strong recruitment and effective use of the transfer portal, the program is on an upward trajectory and aims to contend for the Mountain West title in the future.
For Boise State, Danielson’s leadership has reinvigorated a fan base eager for success since their historic 2006 Fiesta Bowl victory. The Broncos now have the opportunity to make a significant impact in the playoffs against one of college football’s elite programs.
As the selection show approaches, Boise State awaits confirmation on their playoff matchup, ready to embrace the challenge ahead.
