Let's be real, folks. When you search for "unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats," you're not just looking for a boring chart. You probably want to know who usually wins, why Boise State seems to always have UNLV's number, what key players actually made a difference recently, and maybe even where to catch the next game or grab a beer while watching it. That's exactly what I aim to cover.
Having followed this Mountain West matchup for years – and honestly, sometimes enduring some brutal losses as a neutral observer hoping for an upset – I get what fans and curious folks really need. This isn't just about numbers; it's about understanding the story behind them.
Breaking Down the UNLV vs Boise State Football Series History
Looking at the raw series history between UNLV Football and Boise State Broncos Football is... well, it's a bit one-sided. Boise State joined the Mountain West in 2011, and that's when these matchups became regular. Honestly, it hasn't been much of a rivalry in terms of competitiveness on the scoreboard. Boise State has dominated.
| Stat Category | Boise State Leads | UNLV Leads | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Wins | 9 | 1 | Boise State holds a commanding 9-1 series advantage. |
| Games Played in Las Vegas | 4 | 1 | UNLV's only win came at home in 2020. |
| Games Played in Boise | 5 | 0 | UNLV has never won on the blue turf. |
| Average Points Scored (Per Game) | 38.9 | 18.5 | Reflects Boise State's offensive firepower. |
| Margin of Victory (Avg) | +20.4 points | - | Highlights the consistent gap. |
Seeing that 9-1 record hits hard if you're a Rebel fan. Boise State rolled into the Mountain West and basically owned this matchup from the jump. That lone UNLV win in 2020? Man, that was a weird COVID year game in an empty stadium – Boise State had key players out, and UNLV capitalized. But it stands out as the massive exception.
The Lone Victory: UNLV's 2020 Upset
November 14th, 2020. Allegiant Stadium was silent, no fans. Boise State came in ranked and missing their starting QB (Hank Bachmeier) and starting RB (George Holani). UNLV QB Max Gilliam played a smart game (189 yards, 1 TD), and Charles Williams ran hard (138 yards). The Rebels defense forced 3 turnovers. Final score: UNLV 34, Boise State 17. It snapped a 7-game losing streak in the series. But honestly, that game feels like a total anomaly looking back at the rest of the history. It hasn't been close to repeated since.
Recent UNLV vs Boise State Football Matchups: The Cold, Hard Numbers
Want to know how the last few years have shaken out? This is where digging into the unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats gets interesting for predicting future games.
| Year | Location | Winner | Score | Key Stat | Game Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Las Vegas, NV | Boise State | 44 - 20 | Boise: 234 Rush Yards | Boise dominated the line of scrimmage. |
| 2022 | Boise, ID | Boise State | 38 - 26 | UNLV: 3 Turnovers | Costly INTs sunk UNLV's comeback. |
| 2021 | Las Vegas, NV | Boise State | 38 - 13 | Boise: 5 Sacks | Constant pressure rattled UNLV QB. |
| 2020 | Las Vegas, NV | UNLV | 34 - 17 | UNLV: +3 Turnover Margin | The exception that proves the rule. |
| 2019 | Boise, ID | Boise State | 38 - 13 | Boise: 509 Total Yards | Complete offensive domination. |
Looking at these recent unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats, a pattern screams out: turnovers and rushing yards. When Boise State wins the turnover battle and imposes its will on the ground, UNLV struggles immensely. That 2023 game was tough to watch live – Boise just kept running it down UNLV's throat. The Rebels looked helpless. In 2022, UNLV actually moved the ball reasonably well (over 400 yards!) but those three turnovers, especially deep in Boise territory, were absolute killers. It feels like UNLV needs a near-perfect game and some Boise mistakes to pull off the upset.
Key Player Performances in the UNLV vs Boise State Rivalry
Numbers tell stories, and players write them. Here's a look at some guys who've left their mark on this matchup recently. Forget generic positions; let's talk about impact.
Quarterback Comparison: Recent History
This position has been critical. Boise State usually has the edge here, both in talent and execution.
| Year | UNLV QB | Stats | Boise State QB | Stats | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Jayden Maiava | 20/31, 218 Yds, 1 TD, 1 INT | Taylen Green | 12/15, 226 Yds, 2 TD, 0 INT; 90 Rush Yds | Green's dual-threat ability was unstoppable. |
| 2022 | Doug Brumfield | 29/44, 299 Yds, 2 TD, 2 INT | Taylen Green | 14/23, 224 Yds, 2 TD, 0 INT; 78 Rush Yds, 2 TD | Green accounted for 4 TDs; Brumfield turnovers costly. |
| 2021 | Cameron Friel | 22/35, 182 Yds, 1 TD, 1 INT | Hank Bachmeier | 24/34, 278 Yds, 4 TD, 0 INT | Bachmeier picked apart the UNLV secondary. |
| 2020 | Max Gilliam | 14/22, 189 Yds, 1 TD, 0 INT | Jack Sears | 17/20, 280 Yds, 2 TD, 1 INT (Bachmeier/Holani out) | Gilliam managed the game efficiently for the win. |
Taylen Green was just a nightmare for UNLV the past two years. His ability to rip off big runs when plays broke down killed momentum. Jayden Maiava showed some flashes in 2023, but that INT felt like it came at the worst possible time. Brumfield in 2022 put up numbers but those picks... ugh, brutal. Friel just looked overwhelmed in 2021. The gap in QB play, specifically in making plays under pressure and avoiding killer mistakes, has been a massive factor favoring Boise.
Running Backs & Receivers: Who Stepped Up?
Ground games and big plays often decide this matchup.
| Year | UNLV Standout | Stats | Boise State Standout | Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Ricky White (WR) | 7 Rec, 103 Yds | Ashton Jeanty (RB) | 22 Att, 153 Yds, 1 TD |
| 2022 | Ricky White (WR) | 8 Rec, 111 Yds | George Holani (RB) | 22 Att, 131 Yds |
| 2021 | Kyle Williams (WR) | 5 Rec, 65 Yds, 1 TD | Khalil Shakir (WR) | 7 Rec, 124 Yds, 1 TD |
| 2020 | Charles Williams (RB) | 29 Att, 138 Yds | CT Thomas (WR) | 7 Rec, 104 Yds |
A few things jump out. Ricky White is legit – he's put up numbers against Boise in back-to-back years, even in losses. He's a playmaker UNLV needs to feed. But Jeanty for Boise in 2023? He looked like a future NFL back slicing through the Rebels. Holani was a workhorse in 2022. UNLV hasn't had a consistent rushing attack to counter punch effectively outside of that 2020 Williams performance. Finding a back who can grind out yards consistently against that Boise front remains a challenge.
Beyond the Box Score: Context for UNLV vs Boise State Stats
Pure unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats tell part of the story, but context is king. Why does Boise State dominate this series so consistently?
Why the Mismatch? Digging Deeper
- Program Depth & Recruiting: Let's not sugarcoat it. Boise State consistently recruits at a higher level than UNLV, especially along the lines and at key skill positions. Their two-deep roster is usually stronger top to bottom. That depth wears UNLV down, especially in the second half. You see it in those rushing stats late in games.
- Coaching Stability & System: Boise State has had incredible stability with Chris Petersen and Bryan Harsin setting a foundation. Even with coaching changes, their offensive and defensive systems are well-established and executed. UNLV has cycled through coaches far more frequently (Barry Odom is the latest attempt). Building consistency is tough, and it shows in execution errors against disciplined teams like Boise (think penalties, blown assignments leading to big runs).
- The Blue Turf Factor (Especially in Boise): Playing on that bright blue field in Boise is genuinely tough. It's visually jarring, it's loud, and Boise State uses it as a major home-field advantage. UNLV's record in Boise is a testament to that. Even beyond the color, the environment is just hostile.
- Turnover Magnetism: One stat that screams from the recent unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats is turnovers. Boise State defenses are often opportunistic and force mistakes from opposing QBs. UNLV QBs have thrown costly interceptions in several recent matchups (2022 stands out). Boise, conversely, protects the ball well against UNLV.
So yeah, it's not just about having a good day. UNLV is battling against a program built for sustained success. That Boise system breeds confident players. I remember watching a UNLV drive stall near midfield in 2023 after a false start and a sack – it just felt like the air went out. Overcoming that mental hurdle against Boise is as big as the physical one.
Where & When: Finding UNLV vs Boise State Football Games
Okay, so you're caught up on the unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats and history, and now you want to watch the next one. Smart move. Here's the practical stuff.
Game Location & Stadium Info
- Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas, NV): When the game is in Vegas, this is where it's at. Home of the Raiders. Massive, modern, air-conditioned (thank god for that Vegas heat). Address: 3333 Al Davis Way, Las Vegas, NV 89118. Getting there? Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is easiest, but parking is available ($$$). Proximity to the Strip makes pre/post-game activities plentiful.
- Albertsons Stadium (Boise, ID): The infamous Blue Turf. Address: 1400 Bronco Ln, Boise, ID 83706. Parking is tricky; lots fill up fast. Public transport options exist, but many fans walk from downtown Boise hotels across the bridge. Bundle up for November games – it gets cold.
- Future Scheduled Games:
- 2024: Likely in Boise (Date TBA - Usually late Oct/Nov)
- 2025: Likely in Las Vegas (Date TBA)
How to Watch UNLV vs Boise State Football on TV
Can't make it in person? No worries. Finding the game is pretty straightforward, but the channel depends on the year and TV deals.
- Primary Networks: Mountain West games are broadcast mainly on CBS Sports Network (CBSSN) and Fox Sports networks (FS1, FS2, sometimes local Fox affiliates). ESPN networks sometimes pick up games later in the season.
- Streaming: If you have a cable/satellite login, you can stream via the CBS Sports App, Fox Sports App, or ESPN App.
Cutting the cord? Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV (check which package includes CBSSN/FS1) carry these channels. - Radio: Local radio broadcasts are always an option. Check UNLV Sports Network or Boise State Bronco Radio Network stations.
Seriously, set a reminder for yourself when the schedule drops. Nothing worse than scrambling at kickoff trying to find the channel. Happened to me once trying to find CBSSN on a new streaming service – kicked off right as I found it!
Predicting the Next UNLV vs Boise State Football Game
Using past unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats to predict the future? It's tempting but tricky. Here's a balanced look.
Factors Favouring Boise State: * **Historical Dominance:** That 9-1 record speaks volumes. They know how to win these games. * **Talent Gap:** Generally, Boise recruits better athletes, especially in the trenches. * **Quarterback Play:** Boise often has the more experienced or dynamic QB (see Taylen Green past 2 years). * **Home Field (When in Boise):** The Blue Turf is a proven advantage.
Factors Favouring UNLV: * **Improvement Under Odom:** Coach Barry Odom brought defensive grit. The 2023 team showed fight, even in losses. They aren't rolling over. * **Ricky White:** A genuine game-breaking WR who can exploit defenses. * **Home Field (When in Vegas):** Allegiant Stadium is a great venue, and a packed house can energize the Rebels. That 2020 win happened there. * **Boise State's Occasional Stumbles:** Boise isn't always the juggernaut of past years. They can be vulnerable, especially on the road.
Realistic Outlook: Call me cynical, but unless UNLV makes a massive leap forward in offensive line play and forces Boise into multiple turnovers, Boise State remains the heavy favorite in any given year. The stats and history are overwhelmingly on their side. That said, the gap feels smaller now than it did 3-4 years ago. Odom has them playing harder. An opening quarter turnover leading to an early UNLV touchdown could make things very interesting... but Boise usually weathers those storms. My gut says Boise wins more often than not, but UNLV might keep it within 10-14 points more consistently moving forward, especially in Vegas. A true UNLV win would still be a significant upset based on the unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats trendline.
FAQs About UNLV Football vs Boise State Broncos Football Stats
Who leads the overall series between UNLV and Boise State?
Boise State absolutely dominates the series since joining the Mountain West in 2011. They hold a commanding 9-1 lead in the matchup. The only UNLV win came at home in 2020 under unusual circumstances (COVID, key Boise players out).
Has UNLV ever beaten Boise State in Boise?
Nope. Not once. UNLV is 0-5 all-time playing football games against Boise State on their famous blue turf in Idaho. It's been a house of horrors for the Rebels.
What was the score of the last UNLV vs Boise State football game?
The last matchup was November 4th, 2023, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Boise State won convincingly, 44-20. Their running game, led by Ashton Jeanty (153 yards), controlled the game.
Where can I find the most detailed UNLV vs Boise State football statistics?
The absolute best official sources are the athletic department websites after each game: * UNLV Rebels Official Athletics Site: [https://unlvrebels.com/](https://unlvrebels.com/) (Go to Football, then Schedule/Results, click on the specific game vs Boise) * Boise State Broncos Official Athletics Site: [https://broncosports.com/](https://broncosports.com/) (Same process: Football -> Schedule -> Game vs UNLV) They post comprehensive official box scores and stat books. ESPN.com and CFBStats.com also compile reliable historical data for the unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats.
Why does Boise State typically dominate UNLV in football?
It boils down to a few key factors evident in the unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats: superior program depth and talent (especially on the lines), greater coaching stability leading to better execution, a distinct home-field advantage on the blue turf, and forcing turnovers while protecting the ball themselves. Boise simply builds more complete rosters year-in, year-out.
When is the next UNLV vs Boise State football game?
The Mountain West Conference typically releases the full season schedule in the spring (around March/April). Based on the rotation, the 2024 game is highly likely to be played in Boise, Idaho, at Albertsons Stadium. The date will be finalized when the schedule drops – expect it to be a conference game, likely scheduled for October or November.
Where can I buy tickets for UNLV vs Boise State?
Your best bets are the official sources first: * For games in Las Vegas: UNLV Ticket Office ([https://unlvtickets.com/](https://unlvtickets.com/)) * For games in Boise: Boise State Ticket Office ([https://www.broncosports.com/tickets](https://www.broncosports.com/tickets)) Secondary markets like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats will also have listings, often with variable pricing based on demand. Buy early for better selection, especially if you want decent seats for a potential upset bid.
Digging Deeper: Beyond Basic Stats
True fans want more than just points and yards. Understanding the unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats means looking at the underlying factors.
Time of Possession & Field Position Battles
This is where Boise often grinds UNLV down. Look at recent games:
| Year | UNLV Avg. Starting Field Pos. | Boise State Avg. Starting Field Pos. | Time of Possession (UNLV) | Time of Possession (Boise) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Own 27 Yard Line | Own 34 Yard Line | 27:14 | 32:46 |
| 2022 | Own 25 Yard Line | Own 33 Yard Line | 26:50 | 33:10 |
| 2021 | Own 23 Yard Line | Own 37 Yard Line | 28:02 | 31:58 |
See that pattern? Boise State consistently starts drives with better field position. That means shorter fields to score and less pressure on their offense. Combine that with winning the time of possession battle by 5+ minutes per game, and it shows how they control the tempo and wear out the UNLV defense. It's death by a thousand paper cuts – constant 8-10 play drives forcing UNLV's offense to sit. You feel that pressure mount quarter after quarter.
Red Zone Efficiency: Capitalizing on Chances
Scoring opportunities are precious. Who makes the most of them?
| Year | UNLV Red Zone Trips (Scores) | UNLV RZ TD % | Boise State Red Zone Trips (Scores) | Boise RZ TD % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 3 (2 Scores) - 1 TD, 1 FG | 33% (TDs) | 7 (7 Scores) - 6 TDs, 1 FG | 86% (TDs) |
| 2022 | 4 (3 Scores) - 2 TDs, 1 FG | 50% (TDs) | 5 (4 Scores) - 4 TDs, 0 FG | 80% (TDs) |
This stat hits hard. In 2023, Boise State got into the red zone 7 times and scored every single time, mostly touchdowns (6 TDs!). UNLV only got there 3 times and settled for a field goal once. That's a massive points gap created purely by execution when it matters most inside the 20. Boise converts chances into TDs; UNLV too often stalls and kicks field goals (or worse, turns it over like in 2022 near the goal line). This efficiency difference is a cornerstone of Boise's dominance reflected in the unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats.
The Bottom Line on UNLV vs Boise State Football Stats
Looking at the mountain of unlv football vs boise state broncos football stats paints a very clear picture: this has been a lopsided affair heavily favoring Boise State. Their 9-1 record, dominant rushing attacks, opportunistic defense forcing UNLV mistakes, and superior execution in the red zone explain the gap. While UNLV showed real improvement under Barry Odom in 2023, overcoming Boise's consistent program strength, especially on the blue turf, remains a huge challenge. The stats tell us Boise State will likely be favored again in 2024. For UNLV to finally shift these stats, they need near-perfect ball security, a disruptive defensive performance to rattle Boise's QB, and to finish drives with touchdowns, not field goals. Until then, the numbers lean heavily blue and orange.