Boise State Football has long been synonymous with success in college football. Known for their iconic blue turf, electrifying plays, and consistent dominance in the Mountain West Conference, the Boise State Broncos have cemented their place as one of the most respected programs in college football. From thrilling bowl game victories to producing top-tier NFL talent, the Broncos’ football program has built a legacy that extends far beyond the confines of Albertsons Stadium.
In this article, we dive deep into the history, success, key players, and future outlook of Boise State Football, exploring why this program continues to thrive and capture the hearts of football fans nationwide.
The Origins of Boise State Football
The Boise State Broncos football program began in 1933 as a junior college team. Back then, the team competed in the Northwest Junior College Conference, laying the foundation for what would become a powerhouse program. It wasn’t until 1968, when Boise State transitioned to a four-year school, that their football program began to truly grow. Over the following decades, the team gradually built its reputation as a formidable competitor in college football.
In 1996, Boise State joined the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and began its rise to national prominence. The school joined the Big West Conference and eventually became a part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) in 2001. The move to the WAC was instrumental in Boise State’s ascent to national fame, as the team consistently dominated opponents and earned numerous conference titles.
The Blue Turf: An Icon of Boise State Football
One of the most distinguishing features of Boise State Football is its famous blue turf, affectionately known as “The Blue.” Installed in 1986, Boise State became the first school in college football to install a non-green football field. The blue turf quickly became a symbol of the program and has since been embraced by fans and players alike. While it initially caused controversy, with some opposing teams calling it a distraction, the blue field has become an iconic part of Boise State’s identity and a beloved tradition.
The blue turf has also added to the Broncos’ home-field advantage. Playing at Albertsons Stadium, Boise State consistently enjoys one of the best home records in college football, with opposing teams often struggling to adjust to both the unique surface and the intense atmosphere created by Bronco Nation.
Boise State’s Rise to National Prominence
While Boise State had enjoyed success throughout the early 2000s, it was the 2006 Fiesta Bowl that truly put the program on the national stage. In one of the most thrilling and memorable bowl games in college football history, Boise State upset the heavily favored Oklahoma Sooners in overtime, 43-42, thanks to a series of daring trick plays, including the famous “Statue of Liberty” play. That victory not only earned the Broncos a BCS bowl win, but it also solidified Boise State as a legitimate contender in the national landscape.
Over the next decade, Boise State consistently finished with double-digit win seasons, capturing multiple conference championships and earning invitations to prestigious bowl games. The Broncos’ success was characterized by their high-powered offense, led by talented quarterbacks and explosive skill players, and a stout defense that often ranked among the best in the nation.
Key Players in Boise State Football History
Boise State has produced a number of standout players over the years who have gone on to successful careers in the NFL and beyond. Some of the most notable Boise State players include:
Kellen Moore
Arguably the greatest quarterback in Boise State history, Kellen Moore led the Broncos from 2008 to 2011, compiling an incredible 50-3 record as a starter. Moore was known for his football IQ, precision passing, and ability to lead the team in clutch situations. He holds multiple school records and is widely regarded as one of the best college quarterbacks of all time. After a brief NFL career, Moore transitioned into coaching and is now a successful offensive coordinator in the NFL.
Doug Martin
A powerful running back who played for the Broncos from 2007 to 2011, Doug Martin was instrumental in Boise State’s offensive success. Martin rushed for over 3,400 yards during his college career and was known for his tough running style and versatility. He was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he went on to become a two-time Pro Bowler.
Leighton Vander Esch
One of the top defensive players to come out of Boise State, Leighton Vander Esch played linebacker for the Broncos and was a dominant force on defense. After a standout junior season in 2017, where he was named Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year, Vander Esch declared for the NFL Draft and was selected in the first round by the Dallas Cowboys. He quickly became one of the top linebackers in the NFL.
Boise State’s Impact on College Football
The success of Boise State Football has had a significant impact on college football as a whole. The Broncos have been a symbol of what non-Power 5 schools can achieve, consistently competing against and defeating higher-ranked, more established programs. Boise State’s ability to win on the national stage has been an inspiration to smaller schools looking to make a mark in college football.
The program’s success has also sparked discussions about the College Football Playoff and whether non-Power 5 teams deserve a chance to compete for a national championship. Boise State’s continued success, coupled with their historic victories over Power 5 teams, has been at the forefront of these debates.
Boise State Football Today and the Future
Under the leadership of head coach Andy Avalos, who took over in 2021, Boise State continues to maintain its status as a top program in the Mountain West Conference. Avalos, a former standout linebacker and defensive coordinator for the Broncos, brings a deep understanding of the program’s winning culture.
Boise State’s recruiting efforts remain strong, and the program continues to develop NFL-caliber talent. The team’s high-octane offense and stingy defense have been trademarks of their success, and they remain a perennial favorite to compete for the Mountain West title and high-profile bowl games.
With a strong fan base, continued investments in facilities, and a history of success, Boise State is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence in the years to come.
Conclusion
Boise State Football is much more than just a successful college football program; it’s a symbol of resilience, innovation, and the power of teamwork. From the early days as a junior college team to their rise to national prominence, the Broncos have continually defied the odds and set new standards for success. With a bright future ahead, Boise State remains one of the most exciting and competitive programs in college football.