Penn State made a decisive early move against SMU last week, leaving its offense on the field for a pivotal 4th-and-1 attempt from its own 19-yard line. The conversion fell short, primarily because of a misplayed snap, and the Mustangs took over down 14-0 in prime position to reframe the game.

For Boise State, years of being the best program outside the power conference have finally culminated in a chance to play for the national title. Undefeated seasons in 2006 and 2009 ended with Fiesta Bowl wins but came before the four-team Playoff. This season is Boise’s 10th with 12 wins since 2002.