BRONCOS WITH THE BALL

A simpler approach: Senior tailback D.J. Harper said the Broncos have cut down their game plans in recent weeks to try to produce the consistent play that has been their hallmark for more than a decade. “It’s really just simplifying and using the plays we’re really used to,” Harper said. The Broncos have scored 40 points just once this season. They hit that level eight times last season. “We’re right there,” sophomore wide receiver Matt Miller said. “It’s kind of how we’ve been all season — we’re really close to blowing things open.”

Playmaker emerges: UNLV freshman end Sonny Sanitoa was injured during fall camp. Since joining the lineup, he has registered a sack in three straight games. He also has seven tackles. “He doesn’t give up on his rush,” UNLV coach Bobby Hauck said. “Hopefully he’ll learn to be more and more relentless in that regard as he gets older.”

REBELS WITH THE BALL

A familiar style: Boise State sees similarities between the offensive attacks of UNLV and Michigan State, with a powerful run game to set up the pass. The Rebels average 4.3 yards per carry. The Broncos have allowed 4.0 yards per carry, although that number was inflated by New Mexico’s triple option.

First-half dominance: Boise State has shut out its opponent in the first half in four straight games. Those opponents have averaged 112 yards per first half.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Out of range: Boise State kicker Michael Frisina is 8-of-12 on field goals this season. He’s 8-for-8 from 30 yards and in; he’s 0-for-4 from farther out.

Potter strikes: Boise State punt returner Chris Potter has started to find some running room. He has four returns for 60 yards in the past two games — for an average of 15 yards.

NOTES

Playing with a lead: Boise State has not trailed since taking a 15-9 lead over Miami (Ohio) with 1 minute, 43 seconds left in the first half on Sept. 15. That’s 271 minutes, 43 seconds of game action ago. The Broncos still have not trailed by more than seven points in a game since the 2007 Hawaii Bowl.

At home on the blue: The last three visitors to beat Boise State at Bronco Stadium finished the year in the AP top 20 — Washington State in 2001 (No. 10), Boston College in 2005 (No. 18) and TCU in 2011 (No. 14).

Unfamiliar foes: Boise State and UNLV played a six-year home-and-home series from 1972 to 1977. The home team won every game. The series ended when UNLV moved up to Division I in 1978 — and the teams didn’t play again until the Broncos joined the Mountain West last season.