SAN JOSE, Calif. — Ashton Jeanty made history by rushing for 159 yards and scoring three touchdowns, setting a new record for the most rushing yards in a season at his school. The No. 13 ranked Boise State defeated San Jose State with a score of 42-21 on Saturday, marking their eighth consecutive victory.
With a season record of 9-1 and an impressive 6-0 in the Mountain West Conference, Boise State is in a strong position to secure a spot in the championship game, contingent on a loss for UNLV against San Diego State later that same day. The Broncos’ only loss this season came against the top-ranked Oregon, and they continue to aim for a place in the College Football Playoff, provided they secure the conference title.
Jeanty’s critical 36-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter brought the Broncos ahead for the first time in the game at 28-21. After stopping San Jose State with a punt, Boise State controlled possession for over six minutes, culminating in a 12-play, 89-yard drive that concluded with Jeanty’s third touchdown.
Following that, Davon Banks solidified the victory with a 70-yard interception return for a touchdown on the next possession.
Boise State capitalized on four turnovers committed by San Jose State, with two occurring in a row during the second half. After a tough beginning, the Broncos’ defense rose to the occasion, halting the Spartans on a crucial 4th-and-1 from the two-yard line. Boise State responded with an impressive 11-play, 92-yard drive that was finished off by Maddux Madsen’s 4-yard touchdown on a quarterback keeper.
Jeanty managed to tie up the game with a 2-yard touchdown run just before halftime, assisted by Ty Benefield’s interception deep in Boise State’s territory. Madsen had a strong performance, completing 22 of 30 passes for 286 yards along with one touchdown.