Boise State is set to face off against Penn State in the upcoming Fiesta Bowl, a pivotal matchup that marks a significant moment in college football history. This game will serve as a College Football Playoff quarterfinal, and it’s exciting to see the Broncos as the first non-power conference team to break into the expanded 12-team playoff field.
Fans are eagerly anticipating Tuesday’s showdown, curious to see how Boise State will perform on such a grand stage. While many remember the Broncos for their recent achievements, they have a rich history of being underdogs who rise to the occasion. One of the most memorable moments came in 2007 when Boise State pulled off a stunning upset against Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl, a game that has since become legendary.
How Boise State stunned Oklahoma in 2007 Fiesta Bowl
From the very start, it was clear that Boise State was ready to compete. The Broncos wasted no time, scoring a touchdown within the first 3:31 of the game. A fumble recovery on Oklahoma’s next drive allowed Boise State to extend their lead to 14-0 midway through the first quarter.
Despite Oklahoma’s efforts to claw back into the game, the Broncos entered halftime with a commanding 21-10 lead. The Sooners managed to pull within four points late in the second quarter, but Boise State quickly responded, showcasing their resilience and determination.
In the second half, Boise State continued to build on their momentum, intercepting Sooner quarterback Paul Thompson and returning it for a touchdown, pushing their lead to 18 points. However, Oklahoma was not done yet; they rallied to tie the game at 28 with just 1:26 remaining, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
1:02 left in regulation: Boise State throws a pick-six
As the tension mounted, Boise State quarterback Jared Zabransky, who had been playing exceptionally well, threw a dangerous pass that was intercepted by Marcus Walker. Walker returned it 34 yards for a touchdown, putting Oklahoma ahead 35-28.
0:07 left in regulation: On 4th-and-18, the Broncos pull off a hook-and-lateral touchdown
With only 40 seconds left in regulation, Boise State faced a daunting fourth-and-18 situation. Zabransky was sacked on the previous play, and the odds seemed stacked against them. But in a moment of brilliance, Zabransky connected with Drisan James for 15 yards, who then lateraled the ball to Jerad Rabb. Rabb dashed into the end zone for a 35-yard touchdown, tying the game and forcing overtime.
How much was Oklahoma favored to win by?
Heading into the Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma was a seven-point favorite against Boise State. While that might not seem like a massive spread, the general consensus was that the game would not be close. The Sooners entered the matchup with an impressive 11-2 record and had just claimed the Big 12 championship, defeating Nebraska in the conference title game.
Oklahoma, under the legendary Bob Stoops, was a powerhouse, boasting five double-digit win seasons from 2000 to 2004 and multiple BCS bowl appearances. With a storied history that included seven national titles, they were expected to dominate the game.
In contrast, Boise State was relatively new to the FBS level, having only joined in 1996. The Broncos, led by first-year head coach Chris Petersen, achieved an undefeated 12-0 season and claimed the Western Athletic Conference title.
Boise State safety Marty Tadman later remarked, “I didn’t know we were underdogs. I had zero idea we were supposed to get killed. Like, why? We’d just won every game of our season.” This mindset likely contributed to their fearless performance on that fateful night.
Oklahoma’s Adrian Peterson scores TD on Sooners’ first play in overtime
As overtime began, Oklahoma quickly took the lead when Adrian Peterson scored a 25-yard touchdown on the Sooners’ first play. With the extra point, Oklahoma was ahead 42-35, putting the pressure squarely on Boise State.
Boise State’s Ian Johnson almost fumbles ball
The Broncos faced a critical moment on third-and-1 from Oklahoma’s four-yard line. Running back Ian Johnson appeared to fumble the ball, but after a review, it was determined that his knee was down before the ball slipped out, allowing Boise State to continue their drive.
Boise State RB Vinny Perretta passes to Derek Schouman for TD
Instead of opting for the extra point to tie the game and force a second overtime, Boise State boldly lined up for a two-point conversion.
Boise State QB Jared Zabransky orchestrates Statue of Liberty trick play
In a moment that would become iconic in college football lore, the Broncos executed the Statue of Liberty play. Zabransky handed the ball off to running back Ian Johnson, who then scored the game-winning touchdown, sealing a 43-42 victory.
After the game: A memorable on-field proposal
In a heartwarming twist, Johnson celebrated the victory by proposing to his cheerleader girlfriend, Chrissy Popadics, right on the field. He later shared that he had originally planned to propose in Southern California, but the excitement of the game led to a beautiful moment that captured the hearts of fans everywhere.
Boise State vs. Oklahoma NFL players on rosters
The 2007 Fiesta Bowl showcased not only college football talent but also future NFL stars.
Oklahoma:
– RB Adrian Peterson
– QB Paul Thompson
– CB Marcus Walker
– LB Rufus Alexander
Boise State:
– CB Kyle Wilson
– WR Legedu Naanee
– OT Ryan Clady
– RB Ian Johnson
– WR Jerard Rabb
The unforgettable 2007 Fiesta Bowl remains a testament to the spirit of college football, where underdogs can rise to greatness and create moments that resonate for years to come. As Boise State prepares to take on Penn State, fans will undoubtedly be reminded of that magical night in Arizona. Will history repeat itself? Only time will tell.
