No. 17 Boise State (5-1, 2-0 Mountain West) is set to face UNLV (6-1, 2-0) on Friday at 10:30 p.m. ET, broadcast on CBSSN.
The betting odds from BetMGM favor Boise State by 3.5 points. Historically, Boise State has a leading record against UNLV, winning 9 out of 12 matchups.
**WHAT’S AT STAKE?**
This matchup is critical, as the victor will significantly enhance their chances of making it to the College Football Playoff. Even if Boise State suffers a loss, they could still secure a playoff spot by winning the Mountain West championship. On the other hand, UNLV’s chances would be slim if they lose, even if they clinch the conference title.
**KEY MATCHUP**
The showdown between Boise State’s offensive line and UNLV’s defensive unit will be pivotal in determining the game’s outcome. The offensive line has been instrumental in the success of Broncos running back Ashton Jeanty. Boise State ranks 12th nationally for the fewest tackles for loss allowed (averaging 3.5) and is 16th in terms of sacks allowed (1.0 per game). UNLV, spearheaded by linebacker Jackson Woodard, is currently first in the conference for scoring defense (allowing an average of 22.6 points) and rushing defense (104.4 yards allowed on average). Woodard has earned Mountain West defensive player of the week honors three times this season and was recognized nationally for his performance during the opener against Houston.
**PLAYERS TO WATCH**
For Boise State, Ashton Jeanty is a standout player, renowned for consistently gaining a first down with each carry. He has achieved 200-yard games in half of his six outings this season, with potential for further standout performances had the Broncos not maintained such commanding leads. With an impressive 18 total touchdowns, he outpaces 26 FBS teams in scoring.
On the UNLV side, wide receiver Ricky White III is a key player, making an impact on both offense and special teams. He leads the nation in blocked punts (three) and was the top returning receiver last season, amassing 1,483 receiving yards.
**FACTS & FIGURES**
A win for Boise State would secure their eligibility for bowl games for the 27th consecutive season. UNLV, meanwhile, is also bowl eligible for the second consecutive year, marking an unprecedented feat in the program’s history. A victory would also mark Boise State’s best start since 2019. Furthermore, UNLV boasts a strong plus-12 turnover margin, ranking them second nationally. The team has forced at least one turnover in 20 of 21 games under the guidance of defensive coordinator Michael Scherer. Boise State’s history shows they perform exceptionally well after a bye week, holding a 28-4 record since their transition to Division I-A in 1996, including a remarkable 27-1 record since 2001. UNLV’s last victory against a ranked opponent dates back to 2008, when they defeated No. 15 Arizona State 23-20 in overtime.
This matchup promises to be an exciting confrontation with significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations and overall trajectories in the season.