UNLV vs. Boise State: A Rivalry Redefined on the 2024 Mountain West Championship Stage

The 2024 Mountain West Championship game between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Rebels and Boise State Broncos brought college football fans a thrilling clash of styles, strategies, and stakes. Played at Boise State's famed Albertsons Stadium, the matchup was more than just a conference title decider—it had implications for the College Football Playoff and the trajectory of two ascendant programs.

Setting the Stage

Boise State's Dominance

The Broncos, led by head coach Spencer Danielson, entered the game with an 11-1 record, boasting one of the nation’s most explosive offenses. Anchored by star running back Ashton Jeanty, who amassed over 2,200 rushing yards during the season, Boise State ranked among the top teams in offensive explosiveness and efficiency. Their defense, highlighted by an aggressive pass rush, complemented their ground dominance​.
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UNLV's Resurgence

UNLV’s transformation under head coach Barry Odom has been one of college football's most compelling stories. The Rebels, who relied on a strong run defense and a balanced offense, finished with a 10-2 record. Quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams showcased dual-threat versatility, contributing significantly to UNLV's offensive efficiency. Despite earlier losses to Boise State and Syracuse, UNLV’s victories against notable opponents like Houston and Kansas highlighted their potential​.
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First Meeting in 2024

The two teams first faced off in October at Allegiant Stadium, where Boise State edged UNLV 29-24. Although the scoreline favored the Broncos, a deeper look revealed UNLV’s potential. The Rebels outgained Boise State in yards per play but were undone by turnovers and red zone inefficiencies. This rematch provided an opportunity for UNLV to right those wrongs​.
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The Championship Game

First Half: A Strategic Battle
The first half was defined by tactical adjustments. Boise State leaned on their power running game, with Jeanty finding early success against UNLV’s front seven. However, UNLV's defense adjusted quickly, forcing the Broncos to rely on third-down conversions. On offense, Williams utilized quick passes and designed runs to keep Boise State’s defense on its heels, leading to a closely contested half.

Second Half: High Stakes and Momentum Swings

The third quarter saw Boise State establish a lead, thanks to a mix of play-action passes and a crucial defensive stop on a fourth-and-goal attempt by UNLV. The Rebels, however, responded with a methodical drive capped by a long touchdown pass, showcasing their ability to exploit Boise State's secondary weaknesses​.

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Key Moments

Turnovers: UNLV’s interception in the red zone turned a potential scoring drive into a pivotal momentum shift for Boise State.
Special Teams: Boise State’s blocked punt in the fourth quarter set up a decisive field goal.
Jeanty’s Heroics: Despite UNLV's defensive adjustments, Jeanty broke free for a late-game touchdown that sealed the win.
Final Score and Implications
Boise State emerged victorious, clinching a 35-31 win. The result not only secured their back-to-back Mountain West titles but also boosted their case for a playoff berth. For UNLV, the game marked a bittersweet conclusion to an outstanding season, underlining their emergence as a serious contender in the Mountain West​.

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Legacy of the 2024 Clash

The UNLV-Boise State rivalry has taken on new dimensions in recent years, and the 2024 championship was a testament to the competitiveness of both programs. As UNLV continues to ascend under Odom and Boise State solidifies its powerhouse status, this matchup could become a staple in Mountain West lore. Whether on the blue turf or under the lights in Las Vegas, the intensity of these battles promises to captivate fans for years to come.