On Friday night, the college football world witnessed a thrilling showdown as No. 10 Boise State took on No. 20 UNLV in the Mountain West Championship. The Broncos emerged victorious, defeating the Rebels 21-7. This impressive win not only showcased their dominance but also solidified Boise State’s position in the College Football Playoff (CFP).
Boise State’s Path to the Playoff
With the CFP selection committee’s latest rankings placing Boise State at No. 10, the anticipation builds. The Broncos are likely to secure a first-round bye in the playoff, as they are expected to be the fourth highest-ranked conference champion. But how did they get here?
Star Performers Shine Bright
The Broncos didn’t leave any room for doubt on Friday night. Running back Ashton Jeanty was nothing short of spectacular, racking up an impressive 209 rushing yards and scoring a touchdown on 32 carries. His performance was a testament to his skill and determination, and it certainly left fans buzzing with excitement.
But Jeanty wasn’t the only star on the field. As UNLV focused its defensive efforts on shutting down Boise State’s run game, the Broncos’ passing game opened up. Quarterback Maddux MadsenDefensive Dominance
While the offense stole the spotlight, Boise State’s defense also played a pivotal role in the win. They managed to hold UNLV to just 327 total yards of offense. The Broncos’ pass defense was particularly impressive, allowing the Rebels to complete less than 50% of their pass attempts and converting only 5 of 16 third-down opportunities. This kind of defensive effort is what championship teams are made of.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Boise State. They faced some challenges, particularly in the run defense department, giving up an average of 6.2 yards per rushing attempt to the Rebels. This vulnerability was evident in the fourth quarter when UNLV managed to drive the ball into Boise State’s red zone. But the Broncos’ defense held strong when it mattered most, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Looking Ahead: The Selection Show
As the dust settles from this thrilling championship game, the Broncos can’t afford to bask in their glory for too long. The College Football Playoff Selection Show is just around the corner, set to air at noon ET on Sunday. Fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the 12-team CFP bracket, and it’s clear that Boise State will have a significant role in the playoff picture.
While there are still many mysteries surrounding how the bracket will ultimately shake out, one thing is certain: Boise State has proven they belong in the conversation. Their performance against UNLV was a statement, and it’s a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
What’s Next for Boise State?
As the Broncos prepare for the playoff, they will need to build on their strengths and address any weaknesses. The combination of a powerful rushing attack led by Jeanty and a solid passing game with Madsen at the helm gives them a well-rounded offensive strategy. Meanwhile, their defense must continue to tighten up, particularly against the run, to ensure they can compete with the best teams in the nation.
Fans are left wondering: Can Boise State make a deep run in the playoffs? With the talent they showcased in the Mountain West Championship, they certainly have the potential. The excitement is palpable as we await the selection committee’s decision and the unveiling of the playoff bracket.
In the world of college football, anything can happen, and the Broncos are ready to seize the moment. With their eyes set on the ultimate prize, Boise State is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming playoff. The journey is just beginning, and the thrill of college football is in the air. Will they rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the Broncos are ready to make their mark.
