BOISE, Idaho — Ashton Jeanty had a remarkable performance, rushing for 209 yards and scoring three touchdowns, leading No. 12 Boise State to a 28-21 victory against a determined Nevada team on Saturday night. This win marked the Broncos’ seventh consecutive triumph of the season.
With an impressive record of 8-1 and a 5-0 standing in the Mountain West Conference, Boise State maintains a favorable position among the Group of Five schools competing for an automatic berth in the upcoming 12-team College Football Playoff. Their only defeat this season came in a close match against the now top-ranked Oregon, ending 37-34.
The game, however, wasn’t straightforward. Boise State’s offense faced challenges for most of the match, only coming to life in the fourth quarter. Quarterback Maddux Madsen directed a crucial 10-play, 62-yard drive that concluded with Jeanty crossing the goal line on a 2-yard run. This score was validated after a review reversed an earlier interception call at the 1-yard line.
On the other end, Nevada had a chance to even the score, but a fumble by Sean Dollars at the 1-yard line allowed Boise State to regain possession in the end zone. The Broncos started strong, scoring on their first two drives: Matt Lauter caught an 11-yard touchdown pass, and Jeanty powered through for a 4-yard TD, quickly putting Boise ahead 14-0 in the first quarter.
Nevada, however, fought back. Quarterback Brendon Lewis scored on a 17-yard run and later connected with wide receiver Marcus Bellon for a 44-yard touchdown pass to Caleb Ramseur, tying the game. The Broncos continued to show signs of inconsistency as they began the second half poorly, fumbling the kickoff but managing to recover at their own 5-yard line. They then executed a 95-yard drive that resulted in another touchdown by Jeanty from the 1-yard line.
Lewis completed 17 of 26 passes for 188 yards and added a rushing touchdown to his efforts. Despite their struggles, the Wolfpack’s slim chances for bowl eligibility have slipped away, but first-year head coach Jeff Choate is recognized for moving the program in a positive direction. Nevada has faced tough luck, having lost five games by a touchdown or less, and they remained competitive against Boise State for much of the contest.
For Boise State, as opponents start to contain Jeanty’s explosive plays, the team will need Madsen to deliver a more reliable performance. Although the sophomore quarterback has demonstrated potential this season, he struggled against Nevada, throwing one interception and having two additional interceptions negated due to penalties and reviews, coupled with some misthrows in critical moments.
Looking ahead, Nevada will host Air Force on November 23. Conversely, Boise State is scheduled to face San Jose State next Saturday.