Boise State secured its third consecutive Mountain West Conference championship with a decisive 38-21 victory over UNLV on Saturday, propelled by a dominant first-half performance from quarterback Maddux Madsen. The win marks a high note for the Broncos as they prepare too join the rebuilt Pac-12 Conference in 2026.
This championship solidifies Boise State’s position as a perennial power in the Mountain West, capping a 9-4 season. For UNLV, who finished with a 10-3 record in their first year under head coach Dan Mullen, the loss represents a missed chance to claim their first conference title. The Broncos’ victory also repeats their earlier season triumph over the Rebels, having defeated them 56-31 in October.
Madsen was instrumental in establishing Boise State’s lead, accounting for four touchdowns before halftime. He opened the scoring with a 10-yard rush and followed with touchdown passes to Dylan Riley, Cameron Bates, and Malik Sherrod – the latter coming instantly after a UNLV fumble. By halftime, Boise State led 28-14. Madsen finished the game with 289 passing yards and 196 total yards.
UNLV battled back in the second half, with quarterback Anthony Colandrea leading a 95-yard drive culminating in a 5-yard touchdown run. Colandrea later connected with Troy Omeire for an 11-yard score, and JoJo Earle added a 7-yard rushing touchdown late in the third quarter to narrow the gap to 28-21.
However, Boise State’s defense stiffened in the fourth quarter, forcing three consecutive stops. Sire Gaines then capped a 78-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 35-21. A 50-yard field goal by Colton Boomer sealed the victory.
Boise State outgained UNLV 460-409, maintaining control throughout the game and never trailing. The Broncos’ win concludes their run in the Mountain West Conference with a statement victory before embarking on a new chapter in the Pac-12.
