Washington State hands Boise State first loss in 31-28 thriller
James DiNucci threw two touchdown passes as the Cougars extended their winning streak to six games and ended the Broncos' unbeaten season.
Boise State's perfect season came to an end Saturday as Washington State held off the Broncos 31-28 in a closely contested Pac-12 matchup.
Coming off a convincing victory over Oregon State, Boise State entered the game unbeaten but struggled to keep pace with a Washington State offense that delivered its sixth consecutive victory.
Cougars quarterback James DiNucci led the offensive attack, throwing for 248 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. DiNucci extended his interception-free streak to four consecutive games, while receiver Nelson Johnson-Barnes contributed 75 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Despite the defeat, Boise State quarterback Helaman Casuga delivered a solid performance, completing 15 of 22 passes for 202 yards. Casuga also rushed for a season-high 76 yards, providing an additional threat on the ground.
Running back King Miller added 51 rushing yards and two touchdowns, helping the Broncos remain within striking distance throughout the contest.
The three-point defeat dropped Boise State to 8-1, ending its unbeaten run and dealing a setback to its postseason aspirations.
Washington State improved to 8-2 with its sixth consecutive victory, continuing its late-season surge.
Boise State looks to rebound Saturday when it travels to Utah State for a 6 p.m. Pac-12 matchup, while Washington State visits Texas State at 2:30 p.m. as the Cougars seek their seventh straight victory.
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