in a run of two consecutive point-producing series. A 28-yard field goal by Brotzman gave the Broncos a 10-3 advantage.

The lead swelled to 16-3 by halftime thanks to a 25-yard touchdown pass from Moore to wide receiver Tyler Shoemaker with 18 seconds left in the second quarter. A two-point conversion attempt failed.

Utah's defense made a statement early when cornerback Lamar Chapman sacked Moore, forcing a fumble that was recovered by defensive tackle Neli A'asa on the Boise State 20-yard line. The sack was just the eighth allowed by the Broncos in 836 plays this season. They entered the game ranked third in the nation in fewest sacks allowed.

The Utes, though, failed to capitalize on the breakthrough. They came up empty when a 39-yard field goal attempt by JoePhillips was wide left.

Utah's second offensive drive also ended poorly. Cain fumbled when sacked by cornerback Jamar Taylor and the ball was recovered by defensive tackle Chase Baker on the Boise State 34.

Missed opportunities were plentiful for the Utes in the decisive first half.

After forcing a loss on downs when Brotzman dropped a fourth-down pass on the ensuing possession, Utah's offense sputtered and the Utes were forced to punt the ball back.

Another chance, however, soon followed.

Linebacker Chaz Walker put an end to the Broncos' next drive with an interception. He returned Moore's sixth pick of the season 24 yards to the Boise State 32.

Utah, however, wound up settling for a 44-yard field goal to take a 3-0 lead with 56 seconds to go in the first quarter.

The momentum