Nevada is set for a challenging showdown as they visit a red-hot Boise State team riding a six-game win streak. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Under 60.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Nevada vs. Boise State
Saturday, November 09, 2024 – 08:00 PM ET at Albertsons Stadium
Nevada’s Struggles Against Colorado State
Nevada took a tough 38-21 loss at home to Colorado State. Kicker Jordan Noyes made a standout 60-yard field goal, tying for the second-longest in school history, to give the Rams a 17-0 halftime lead. Ayden Hector’s forced fumble, recovered by Gabe Kirschke, led to another field goal by Noyes, widening the lead early in the third.
A misplayed kickoff by Nevada allowed Colorado State’s Caleb Goodie to knock the ball into the end zone, where Jace Bellah recovered, and Jamari Person’s two-point catch stretched the lead to 28-0.
On offense, Brendon Lewis provided some sparks for Nevada, completing 20 of 28 passes for 252 yards and a touchdown. He also led in rushing with 109 yards and two short touchdowns, while Cortez Braham Jr. tallied 141 yards on nine catches. Despite these efforts, Nevada’s defensive struggles and three-game losing streak have underscored the need for improvement.
Boise State Dominated San Diego State
Boise State routed San Diego State 56-24, fueled by Ashton Jeanty’s 149 rushing yards and two touchdowns, his eighth straight 100-yard game—a new school record surpassing Jay Ajayi. After a slow first half, Jeanty broke out for 112 yards in the third quarter.
Maddux Madsen also shined, completing 24 of 32 passes for a career-high 307 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. Latrell Caples led the receiving effort with 90 yards and three scores, and Cameron Camper contributed 50 yards on four catches.
Boise State displayed their depth and balance on offense, with Madsen’s poise in the pocket and Jeanty’s consistent ground gains fueling a powerful, well-rounded attack.
Keys to the Game
Lewis has shown accuracy, completing over 70% of his passes in the last game while adding important rushing yards. His chemistry with Braham Jr. will be vital if Nevada wants to challenge Boise State’s defense. Boise State’s defensive front, however, is skilled at pressuring quarterbacks, and Lewis will need to limit mistakes and extend plays to keep Nevada in the game.
Jeanty’s eight consecutive 100-yard games highlight his impact on Boise State’s offense. Nevada’s defense has struggled against the run recently, and stopping Jeanty will be crucial to avoid falling behind early. Boise State’s offensive line consistently opens lanes for Jeanty, and Nevada will need to improve their tackling to keep him contained.
Madsen’s career game against San Diego State, with 307 passing yards and four touchdowns, shows his ability to lead a dynamic passing attack. Caples remains his main target, and Nevada’s secondary will have to maintain tight coverage, especially in the red zone, to avoid giving up easy points. Any lapse in coverage could quickly turn the game in Boise State’s favor.
Nevada’s recent issues with turnovers and special teams errors—such as the misplayed kickoff against Colorado State—could be pivotal in this matchup. Boise State’s disciplined special teams unit may be able to capitalize on Nevada’s mistakes. Field position will be essential for Nevada, and turnovers could grant Boise State short fields to extend their lead.
NCAAF Pick
While Nevada might stay competitive early with effective connections between Lewis and Braham, Boise State’s balanced offense, led by Jeanty’s explosive running and Madsen’s recent passing form, is likely to overwhelm Nevada over the course of the game.
Boise State’s consistency and depth on both sides of the ball should eventually prove too much for Nevada, especially if turnovers continue to be an issue.
I like the Under, the total is high and Nevada will not contribute much to it.
NCAAF Pick: Under 60.5 (-110) at Bet365
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