BRONCOS WITH THE BALL

Catching on: The Broncos made several difficult catches last week, including a tough grab by freshman tight end Holden Huff while taking a hit. Sophomore Matt Miller has delivered plenty of those, but coaches were pleased to see some other receivers making the highlight reel. “There’s some confidence there that we’d like to build off of,” quarterbacks coach Jonathan Smith said.

Spread it around: Nine Broncos have caught at least 11 passes this season. Since coach Chris Petersen joined the staff in 2001, they’ve only done that one other time — last year, with 10 players who hit that mark. Sophomore wide receiver Dallas Burroughs is 10th on the team this year with four catches.

RAMS WITH THE BALL

Running hot: The Rams have had a 100-yard rusher in three straight games, including back-to-back performances by redshirt freshman Donnell Alexander. They have averaged 177.3 rushing yards per game during that stretch. “Luckily, we’ve gotten this run game going a little bit,” senior left tackle Joe Caprioglio said. “That’s been fun.”

Dominant Broncos: Opposing offenses have scored seven first-half points in the past eight games. They also have only driven 10 yards or more for a touchdown against the Broncos’ first-teamers three times in the past five games. The defense has allowed two touchdown passes this season and one scoring play (against the backups) longer than 7 yards.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Kickoff fix: The Broncos have allowed a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in back-to-back games. The once-impenetrable coverage became such a concern last week that coaches went to a series of sky and squib kicks to remove the risk of another long return. Colorado State has a strong return team led by Thomas Coffman, who has a 73-yarder this season.

Field-goal funk: Boise State’s opponents are 4-of-12 on field-goal attempts this season. Opposing kickers often have struggled through the years. This season, the Broncos have generated some pressure up the middle.

‘Pete the Punter’: Colorado State senior Pete Kontodiakos ranks third in the nation with a 46.8-yard average. That could give Boise State’s dynamic punt return team a chance for some big plays, though. He also has had three punts blocked this year.

NOTES

Senior day fun: Boise State has won 13 straight home finales — including 10 by at least 30 points. The exceptions were in 1999, 2001 and 2002.