Penn State and Boise State are set to clash on New Year’s Eve in Glendale, Arizona, at the VRBO Fiesta Bowl. This matchup holds significant stakes, with a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff semifinals on the line. For Boise State, this game marks a return to the Fiesta Bowl, a venue that catapulted them into the national spotlight with their unforgettable 43–42 overtime victory over Oklahoma at the conclusion of the 2006 season.
First-time encounter
This showdown is particularly exciting as it marks the first meeting between Penn State and Boise State in their respective program histories. Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. The anticipation is palpable, as both teams are eager to make their mark in this high-stakes contest.
Penn State’s opportunity
For the Nittany Lions and head coach James Franklin, this game represents a golden opportunity to showcase their potential as national title contenders. They have already taken a significant step in that direction by decisively defeating SMU in the CFP quarterfinals. Can they carry that momentum into the Fiesta Bowl and prove they belong among the elite?
Ashton Jeanty ready to shine
One of the key players to watch in this matchup is Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. He has been instrumental in the Broncos’ success this season, and now he faces a formidable challenge against a Penn State defense that stifled SMU, allowing just 58 rushing yards in their last game. Will Jeanty be able to break through and make a significant impact?
Chasing history
Ashton Jeanty is not just playing for team glory; he is also on the verge of making history. He needs just 132 yards to break the legendary Barry Sanders’ single-season NCAA rushing record of 2,268 yards. The pressure is on, but Jeanty has shown he can handle it. How will he perform under the bright lights of the Fiesta Bowl?
Expert predictions
Analysts are weighing in on this thrilling matchup. Notably, Joel Klatt has made his prediction, stating that the Penn State defense will face a tough test against the “absolutely remarkable” Jeanty. Klatt believes that Jeanty’s drive and talent will challenge the Nittany Lions, but he ultimately sees Penn State prevailing with a score of 38-24. Will his prediction hold true, or will Boise State pull off the upset?
Coin toss results
As the excitement builds, the coin toss has already taken place. Penn State won the toss and has elected to defer, meaning Boise State will receive the ball to start the Fiesta Bowl. This decision could set the tone for the game, as both teams look to establish their rhythm early on.
Betting odds and expectations
As the teams prepare to take the field, the betting odds reflect the expectations for this game. According to FanDuel, Penn State is a 12.5-point favorite against Boise State, with the over-under set at 54.5 points. These numbers indicate that many believe Penn State has the upper hand, but in college football, anything can happen. Will the Broncos rise to the occasion and defy the odds?
A thrilling New Year’s Eve showdown
This Fiesta Bowl promises to be a thrilling encounter, filled with drama, excitement, and the potential for history-making moments. Both teams have shown they can compete at a high level, and with so much on the line, fans can expect nothing less than a fierce battle on the gridiron. As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the anticipation continues to build. Who will emerge victorious and secure their place in the College Football Playoff semifinals?
In the world of college football, every game is a chance to create unforgettable memories, and the Fiesta Bowl is no exception. With the stakes high and the talent on display, this matchup between Penn State and Boise State is sure to be one for the ages. Let the countdown to kickoff begin!
