BOISE, Idaho (AP) - Defensive back Dextrell Simmons is reluctant to call No. 21 Boise State's second-half meltdown against New Mexico four weeks ago a turning point.

Yet by almost any measure since the Lobos rallied with 29 points in the third and fourth quarters, the Broncos defense has been as tough as any in the nation at keeping foes out of the end zone.

Boise State ranks in the top 10 in several defensive categories, including pass defense, pass efficiency defense and points allowed. The Broncos rank second in turnovers with 22 - and three times this season they have held opposing quarterbacks to fewer than 100 yards passing.

Simmons says he and his teammates are simply driven by a desire to avoid failure.

The Broncos (6-1, 3-0 Mountain West) play at Wyoming on Saturday.