Boise State is on the brink of a historic season, heading into the Mountain West championship with an impressive 11-1 record. The team’s success is largely thanks to star running back Ashton Jeanty, who is not only a Heisman contender but is also chasing a legendary college football record. With a playoff spot on the line, all eyes are on the Broncos and their exceptional player as they face No. 19 UNLV this Friday.
Boise State’s Dominant Season and Playoff Hopes
The Broncos have put together a spectacular 2024 campaign, earning them a No. 10 ranking in both the US LBM Coaches Poll and the College Football Playoff rankings. This strong standing puts them in a prime position to enter the new 12-team playoff format.
A victory against UNLV in the championship game is crucial. Winning would not only secure their playoff spot but could also earn them a first-round bye, sending them directly to the national quarterfinals. This level of success is a result of a powerful team effort, but one player has truly stood out.
Ashton Jeanty’s Unstoppable Performance
Running back Ashton Jeanty has been the undeniable engine of Boise State’s offense. His performance has been nothing short of breathtaking, as he leads all FBS players in rushing by a wide margin. His consistency has been a key factor in the team’s success.
Jeanty’s stats are remarkable, with 2,288 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns so far this season. His impact goes beyond just running the ball, as his versatility makes him a true dual-threat player.
- He has rushed for at least 127 yards in all 12 games played.
- He has also contributed in the passing game with 18 catches for 102 yards and a touchdown.
- His performance has made him a projected first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
This all-around ability has kept opposing defenses on their heels all season long.
The Chase for a Legendary Record
Jeanty isn’t just playing for a championship; he’s chasing history. He is getting closer to breaking Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record of 2,628 yards, a feat that has stood since 1988. Currently, Jeanty is just 340 yards away from this iconic benchmark.
With an average of 190.7 rushing yards per game, the record is within his reach if the Broncos can extend their season. A deep playoff run would give him the extra games needed to surpass Sanders and other college football legends.
| Player | Team | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| Barry Sanders | Oklahoma State | 2,628 |
| Melvin Gordon | Wisconsin | 2,587 |
| Kevin Smith | UCF | 2,567 |
| Marcus Allen | USC | 2,342 |
| Ashton Jeanty | Boise State | 2,288 |
The High Stakes of the Road Ahead
The outcome of the Mountain West championship game will have massive implications for both the team and Jeanty. A win against UNLV extends the season and gives Jeanty a legitimate shot at the record. However, a loss could change his plans entirely.
If the Broncos do not make the playoff, Jeanty might consider sitting out a lower-tier bowl game. This move would be to protect his health and preserve his high draft stock ahead of the NFL Draft. NFL scouts are already watching him closely, and his future at the professional level looks incredibly bright. The next few games will be critical in defining his collegiate legacy.
