Boise State Football: Broncos Team History & Stats

Boise State football refers to the intercollegiate American football program of Boise State University, located in Boise, Idaho. The Broncos compete in the Mountain West Conference, known for their iconic blue turf and a history of consistent success.

Key Takeaways

• Boise State football is a prominent NCAA Division I FBS program.
• The Broncos are famous for their distinctive blue playing field, known as the "Smurf Turf."
• The program boasts significant historical success, including multiple conference championships and bowl game victories.
• Key figures like Coach Chris Petersen and quarterback Kellen Moore have left indelible marks on the program's legacy.
• Boise State plays its home games at Albertsons Stadium.

Introduction

The Boise State Broncos have carved out a unique and respected niche in the world of college football. From their humble beginnings to becoming a perennial contender, the program's journey is a testament to strategic coaching, talented athletes, and passionate fan support. Competing at the highest level of NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), Boise State has consistently defied expectations, often punching above its weight against Power Five conference opponents. The team's identity is strongly linked to its distinctive blue turf, a symbol of innovation and a stark departure from the traditional green fields, which has become a trademark of Broncos football.

What is Boise State Football and Why is it Significant?

Boise State football represents the athletic program of Boise State University that competes in NCAA Division I FBS, primarily within the Mountain West Conference. Its significance extends beyond conference play, as the Broncos have established a national reputation for success and challenging established programs. This significance stems from several factors:

• Consistent Winning: Since the early 2000s, Boise State has been one of the most successful programs in the nation, often achieving double-digit win seasons.
• Iconic Brand: The blue turf at Albertsons Stadium is one of the most recognizable features in all of college sports, creating a unique home-field advantage and national intrigue.
• Upset Victories: The Broncos have a history of upsetting highly-ranked Power Five teams, most notably their BCS National Championship Game victory over Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl.
• Player Development: Boise State has a strong track record of developing talent that moves on to the NFL, contributing to its reputation as a program that can consistently produce professional-grade athletes.
• Fan Engagement: The program enjoys robust support from its fanbase, contributing to a vibrant game-day atmosphere.

Risks and Considerations

While Boise State football has achieved remarkable success, there are inherent challenges and risks associated with a Group of Five (G5) program aiming for national relevance:

• Strength of Schedule: Competing outside the Power Five conferences can sometimes lead to questions about the strength of schedule when playoff rankings are considered.
• Recruiting Battles: The program faces intense competition for top talent against Power Five schools with larger budgets and more established national recruiting footprints.
• Coaching Turnover: Success often attracts attention from larger programs, leading to potential coaching departures that can disrupt program momentum.

The History and Evolution of Boise State Football

The story of Boise State football is one of rapid ascent and sustained excellence. The program began modestly, participating in NAIA and then NCAA Division II before making the transition to Division I-AA (now FCS) in 1978 and finally to Division I-A (now FBS) in 1996. The true golden era, however, began in the early 2000s.

Early Years and Transition

Founded in 1933, the Boise State program initially competed against regional opponents. Key milestones include:

• 1968: Became a member of the Big Sky Conference (Division II).
• 1970: Won their first conference championship.
• 1977: Made the Division II national championship game.
• 1978: Moved up to Division I-AA.

The Rise to National Prominence

The transition to Division I-A (FBS) marked a new chapter. The decision to install the blue turf in 1986, initially a bold experiment, quickly became a defining characteristic. The program's national breakthrough is often traced back to the early 2000s under coaches like Dan Hawkins and, most significantly, Chris Petersen.

Chris Petersen Era (2006-2013):

Under Petersen, Boise State became a household name in college football. Key achievements include: — What Day Of The Year Is It? Find Out Now!

• 2006 Fiesta Bowl Victory: A stunning 43-42 upset over heavily favored Oklahoma, capped by a famous Statue of Liberty trick play in overtime. This game put Boise State firmly on the national map.
• Undefeated Seasons: The Broncos achieved perfect regular seasons multiple times.
• BCS Bowl Appearances: Beyond the 2006 Fiesta Bowl, they continued to be recognized as one of the top teams in the country, earning berths in other prestigious bowl games.
• Record-Breaking Offense: Quarterback Kellen Moore, under Petersen's guidance, became one of the most prolific passers in college football history, leading a historically efficient offense.

Post-Petersen Era

Following Petersen's departure to Washington, the program has continued to be a strong contender in the Mountain West Conference under coaches like Bryan Harsin and now Andy Avalos. While maintaining consistent conference success, the challenge remains to break back into the elite national conversation and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Key Figures in Boise State Football History

Several individuals have played pivotal roles in shaping Boise State's football legacy:

• Coach Chris Petersen: Widely regarded as the architect of the modern Boise State dynasty. His innovative coaching, penchant for trick plays, and consistent winning elevated the program to national elite status.
• Quarterback Kellen Moore: A record-setting passer and a symbol of offensive brilliance during the Petersen era. He led the Broncos to numerous victories and set numerous NCAA passing records.
• Coach Dan Hawkins: Preceded Petersen and was instrumental in the program's initial transition and success at the I-A level, laying some of the groundwork for future achievements.
• Jay Ajayi: A standout running back who earned All-American honors and went on to a successful NFL career, showcasing the program's ability to produce NFL talent.

Albertsons Stadium and the Blue Turf

Albertsons Stadium, formerly known as Bronco Stadium, is the home turf of Boise State football. Located on the university's campus, it has a seating capacity of over 36,000. However, its most defining feature is undoubtedly the playing surface.

The Birth of the "Smurf Turf"

In 1986, Boise State became the second NCAA team (after division-rival Eastern Washington) to play on a non-green artificial surface, installing a blue carpet. The decision was initially met with skepticism but quickly became a source of pride and a significant home-field advantage. The color blue was chosen to represent the deep blue of the Boise River and the sky over the state.

Impact of the Blue Turf

• Unique Identity: It provides Boise State with one of the most distinctive and recognizable brands in all of sports.
• Psychological Advantage: The unusual color is disorienting for visiting teams, particularly during day games, and energizes the home crowd.
• Recruiting Tool: It serves as a unique selling point for recruits, differentiating Boise State from other programs.
• National Attention: The turf has generated constant media attention and discussion, keeping the program in the national spotlight.

Boise State Football's Conference Affiliations and Rivals

Boise State has competed in several conferences throughout its history, reflecting its growth and ambition:

• Big Sky Conference (1968–1995): Primarily competed here during its Division II and I-AA eras.
• Big West Conference (1996–2000): A brief stint during its initial transition to Division I-A.
• Western Athletic Conference (WAC) (2001–2010): Experienced significant success and national recognition during this period.
• Mountain West Conference (2011–Present): Currently competes in the Mountain West, where it remains a dominant force.

Notable Rivals

While Boise State has a history against many teams, certain rivalries stand out:

• BYU Cougars: Historically, games against BYU have been highly anticipated, often featuring ranked teams and significant conference implications.
• Washington Huskies: While not a conference opponent, Boise State's victory over Washington in the 2019 Las Vegas Bowl highlighted a competitive, albeit infrequent, matchup.
• Fresno State Bulldogs: As fellow members of the Mountain West, games against Fresno State are often crucial for conference title races.
• Utah State Aggies: Another Mountain West rival where matchups often have conference championship implications.

Performance Metrics and Statistics

Boise State's sustained success is reflected in numerous statistical achievements: — Arizona Cardinals Running Backs: 2024 Season Preview

• Winning Percentage: Consistently ranks among the top programs nationally in winning percentage.
• Conference Championships: Boasts numerous conference titles across the Big Sky, WAC, and Mountain West Conferences.
• Bowl Game Appearances & Wins: Has made a significant number of bowl game appearances, including notable victories in BCS/New Year's Six bowls.
• National Rankings: Frequently appeared in national polls, including top 10 rankings, during the peak of its success.
• NFL Draft Picks: Produces a steady stream of talent selected in the NFL Draft.

How Boise State Achieves Success

Boise State's consistent winning formula can be attributed to a combination of factors:

1. Strong Coaching: Strategic hires have brought innovative schemes and effective player development. Coaches like Petersen are renowned for their ability to maximize talent.
2. Recruiting: While not attracting the same caliber of recruits as elite Power Five schools, Boise State excels at identifying and developing talent, particularly from its region and overlooked prospects.
3. Player Development: The program emphasizes skill development, strength and conditioning, and football IQ, turning raw talent into polished college players.
4. Home-Field Advantage: The blue turf, combined with passionate fan support, creates a formidable environment for opponents.
5. Program Culture: A strong emphasis on discipline, execution, and team unity permeates the program.

Common Questions About Boise State Football

Q1: What is the famous blue turf at Boise State called?

A1: The blue turf at Boise State's stadium is famously known as the "Blue Turf" or sometimes colloquially as the "Smurf Turf." It was installed in 1986 and is one of the most recognizable features in college football.

Q2: When did Boise State join the Mountain West Conference?

A2: Boise State officially joined the Mountain West Conference in 2011. This move placed them in a competitive conference with other regional rivals.

Q3: What is Boise State's most famous football victory?

A3: The most famous victory is arguably the 43-42 upset over No. 2 Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl. This game, featuring a dramatic overtime finish and a Statue of Liberty play, put Boise State football on the national map. — Dutch Way Gap Analysis: Optimize Your Business

Q4: Who is the current head coach of Boise State football?

A4: As of the 2023 season, the head coach of Boise State football is Andy Avalos. He took over the program prior to the 2021 season.

Q5: How many times has Boise State played in a major bowl game?

A5: Boise State has played in several major bowl games, including the Fiesta Bowl (BCS), the Poinsettia Bowl, the Las Vegas Bowl, and the Cotton Bowl (New Year's Six). Their 2007 Fiesta Bowl win is their most prominent major bowl appearance.

Q6: Can Boise State make the College Football Playoff?

A6: As a member of the Mountain West Conference (a Group of Five conference), Boise State faces an uphill battle to make the four-team College Football Playoff. Historically, only undefeated teams from Group of Five conferences have had a remote chance, and even then, it's rare. Consistency against Power Five opponents and undefeated seasons are typically required.

Conclusion

Boise State football has transcended its status as a mid-major program to become a nationally recognized brand synonymous with winning, innovation, and memorable upsets. From the iconic blue turf to legendary coaches and players, the Broncos have built a rich legacy. While the path to the College Football Playoff remains challenging for any Group of Five team, Boise State continues to strive for excellence, compete for championships, and represent their university and state with pride on the national stage.

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Last updated: October 26, 2023, 05:00 UTC