These two Group of Five teams could barge into the CFP

Powered by strong rushing attacks and solid defenses, Mountain West schools Boise State and UNLV are starting to build resumes to gain the attention of the College Football Playoff committee. The playoff has expanded from four to 12 teams for the 2024 season.

The season is young and much could change between now and Nov. 5, the day the first CFP rankings will be released. But now’s a good time to get to know two unheralded teams college football fans may be talking much more about in late fall.

Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty leads the charge

Boise State, currently navigating a tough Mountain West schedule, has a path to the CFP if it can win out and capture the conference championship. Spearheading the team is running back Ashton Jeanty, the nation’s leader in rushing yards (459) and touchdowns (nine) through two games.

In Boise State’s narrow 37-34 loss to then-No. 7 Oregon in Eugene, Jeanty wowed Ducks coach Dan Lanning by rushing for 192 yards on 25 carries.

“I think he’s the best running back I’ve seen since I’ve been here,” the third-year Oregon coach told reporters.

In Boise State’s gritty 56-45 win over Georgia Southern, Jeanty rushed for 267 yards on 20 carries. For the season, the junior is averaging 10.2 yards per carry.