Williams, Boise State defense shines in 24-13 win over Troy

BOISE, Idaho -- Boise State leaned heavily on its defense and some dazzling kick returns by freshman Avery Williams to hold off Troy 24-13 on Saturday in the season opener for both teams.

Williams, who walked on last season and earned a scholarship during fall camp, scored an 81-yard touchdown on his first touch. On Troy's first punt of the game, Williams broke two tackles and stiff-armed a third before racing untouched the rest of the way. Williams finished with 172 kick return yards.

With the victory, the Broncos avoided their first loss in a home-opener since falling to Washington State 41-20 in 2001.

Boise State's offense sputtered most of the afternoon, but it didn't matter much due to the Broncos' smothering defense.�

Troy mustered only 207 yards, the Trojans' lowest offensive output since amassing 186 in a 62-7 loss to Mississippi State in 2013. The Trojans' only touchdown came on a 53-yard interception return by Blace Brown.