The Boise State Broncos faced a tough end to their season after a 31-14 loss to the Penn State Nittany Lions in the 2024 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl. This game marked the conclusion of a remarkable season for Spencer Danielson’s squad, who finished with an impressive record of 12 wins and just two losses. Despite the defeat, the team’s standout running back, Ashton Jeanty, reflected on the positives of the season and the effort put forth by his teammates.
Jeanty’s Reflection on the Season
Ashton Jeanty, who has been a key player for the Broncos, expressed gratitude for the season despite the disappointing outcome in the bowl game. “This season’s been a blessing,” Jeanty said. “God’s favor has been upon me and all my teammates all year, and I’m just thankful. Obviously, we didn’t come away with the result that we did, but a lot of guys on this team did special things all year.”
Jeanty’s acknowledgment of his team’s hard work highlights the camaraderie and determination that defined the Broncos’ season. Even though they fell short against Penn State, the team’s journey was filled with memorable moments and achievements.
Ashton Jeanty’s Standout Performance
It’s no surprise that Jeanty had an extraordinary season. The talented running back finished with a staggering 374 carries for 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns. These numbers are not just impressive; they are extraordinary in the realm of college football. Jeanty’s performance has solidified his place among the elite running backs in the sport.
However, despite his remarkable statistics, Jeanty fell just 27 yards short of breaking the single-season rushing record held by Barry Sanders, who set the mark at 2,628 yards in 1988. This near-miss adds a bittersweet note to Jeanty’s season, as he leaves behind a legacy that may take a long time to match in the NCAAF.
The Game Against Penn State
In the Fiesta Bowl, the Broncos struggled to find their rhythm against a formidable Penn State defense. Jeanty himself admitted, “They executed. They tackled. We didn’t play our best.” His self-criticism speaks volumes about his character and commitment to improvement. He also mentioned his own mistakes, stating, “I didn’t take care of the ball, so that’s why we weren’t able to get the job done.”
Despite the loss, Jeanty’s efforts were commendable, and he finished the season as a finalist for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, finishing second in the voting. His performance throughout the year has not gone unnoticed, and he has garnered respect from fans and analysts alike.
James Franklin’s Strategy Against Jeanty
Leading up to the game, one of the primary concerns for Penn State was how to contain the explosive running game of Boise State, particularly Jeanty. After the game, Penn State head coach James Franklin praised his team’s defensive strategy. “I think we did corral him. Not ‘sort of.’ I think we did corral,” Franklin stated.
Franklin acknowledged the respect his team had for Jeanty, noting, “Even today, I think our defense would say they have a ton of respect for him and how many tackles he was able to break and how strong he is.” This recognition from the opposing coach underscores Jeanty’s impact on the field and the challenges he posed to defenses throughout the season.
Looking Ahead
As the Broncos wrap up their season, the focus now shifts to what’s next for Jeanty. His departure to the NFL is anticipated, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt. The record he nearly broke might remain in Barry Sanders’ hands for a long time, as it’s rare to find a talent like Jeanty in college football.
With Jeanty’s remarkable performance and the team’s overall success, Boise State has set a solid foundation for future seasons. The Broncos have shown they can compete at a high level, and with the right recruits and development, they could be contenders again in the coming years.
Final Thoughts
The Boise State Broncos may have ended their season on a sour note, but the journey they took was anything but ordinary. With a strong record, a Heisman finalist, and a team that fought hard throughout the year, there is much to celebrate. As they look to the future, the lessons learned and the bonds formed during this season will undoubtedly shape the next chapter for the Broncos.
As college football fans, we can only hope to see more of the magic that Jeanty and his teammates brought to the field this season. The spirit of college football thrives on these stories of perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of greatness. Here’s to a bright future for the Boise State Broncos and their incredible players!
