Ajayi runs Boise State past New Mexico, 45-17

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Sophomore tailback Jay Ajayi scored two touchdowns while amassing 147 yards rushing and a career-high 105 yards receiving, leading Boise State to a 45-17 victory over New Mexico on Saturday.

Matt Miller added nine catches for 111 yards and three touchdowns for Boise State (8-4, 6-2 Mountain West), which will play in a bowl game for the 12th consecutive year.

Tailback Crusoe Gongbay had 77 yards rushing and a touchdown in the season finale for New Mexico (3-9, 1-7).

Boise State was denied a berth in the MWC Championship game when Utah State defeated Wyoming 35-7 earlier Saturday to clinch the Mountain Division title.

But senior quarterback Joe Southwick jump-started a dominant effort by the Broncos, throwing an opening-drive touchdown pass to Miller in Southwick’s first action since breaking his right ankle Oct. 19.

Junior Grant Hedrick took over thereafter and threw for 175 yards and three TDs.