The No. 24 Boise State Broncos managed to hold off a late surge to defeat the New Mexico Lobos 32-29.
Boise State got the scoring started on the foot of kicker Michael Frisina. His 28-yard field goal accounted for the only points of the first quarter.
The Broncos tried to put it away in the second, scoring three touchdowns to take a 25-0 lead. Boise State quarterback Joe Southwick threw for a pair of scores and Jay Ajayi rushed for the other.
While things looked all but over at the half, the Lobos came roaring back. Jhurell Pressley and Kasey Carrier each tallied a rushing touchdown for New Mexico, cutting the deficit to 25-14 entering the final quarter.
Southwick threw his third touchdown pass to start the fourth quarter, but the Lobos answered with two more scores to make it 32-29 with under eight minutes to go.
The Broncos attempted to answer, but Frisina missed a 44-yard field goal. But New Mexico was unable to put together a tying or winning drive, as they went four-and-out, returning the ball to Boise State, which managed to run out the clock.
Box Score Hero: Broncos quarterback Joe Southwick had a big night, completing 24 passes in 34 attempts for 311 yards and three touchdowns.
Rankings Ramifications: It’s not an overly impressive victory for the Broncos, but a conference road win will keep them in the top 25.
But Did They Cover? Boise State entered the game a 26-point favorite, so they were unable to cover the spread.
Next Week's Schedule: Boise State travels to take on the Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles while New Mexico hosts the Texas State Bobcats.
This story was originally published on SB Nation.com.