BOISE, Idaho (AP) _ Boise State used a strong defensive performance and a trick play by safety Greg Sasser for a 39-yard touchdown to highlight a 17 point third quarter as the Broncos defeated New Mexico 20-9 in a non-conference football game Saturday.

After a lethargic offensive showing in the first half, Boise State, 2-2, grabbed control of the game in the third period behind the passing of quarterback Bart Hendricks and Sasser's score.

Trailing 9-3 at the half, Hendricks directed the Broncos on their first possession of the second half as Boise State cut the Lobos' lead to 9-6 on a 22 yard field goal by Nick Calaycay.

The Broncos took their first lead of the game a minute later when Hendricks hit tight end Dave Stachelski with a 3-yard touchdown pass. Stachelski's score was set up when Sasser recovered a Lobo fumble on the New Mexico 19 yard line.

Then the Broncos seized control of the game. Boise State lined up for a punt at the New Mexico 39 yard line, but instead of the snap going to punter Jeff Edwards, it went to Sasser who placed the ball on the ground and faked a lateral. As the New Mexico defenders raced by him Sasser picked up the ball and raced the 39 yards for the score, giving Boise State a 20-9 lead.

Hendricks completed 21 of 29 passes for 269 yards.

In the first half, New Mexico, 1-3, scored on its first possession when quarterback Eric Jaworsky hit Brian Urlacher with an 8-yard touchdown pass. It was the fourth touchdown in four receptions for Urlacher, an All-America candidate at safety.

Calaycay booted a 32-yard field goal with 2:49 remaining in the first quarter for Boise State's only score in the first half.

The Lobos widened their lead to 9-3 when Desmar Black tackled Hendricks in the Bronco end zone. The New Mexico defense held Boise State to 15 yards rushing on 16 attempts before Hendricks got the Bronco offense going in the second half.