When we look back at the thrilling history of college football, few moments stand out quite like the 2007 Fiesta Bowl. This game was not just a contest; it was a spectacle that showcased the heart and spirit of the sport. Boise State and Oklahoma clashed in a showdown that would etch itself into the annals of college football lore, and it all unfolded under the bright Tucson sky.
The stage was set with the Broncos, led by star quarterback Jared Zabransky and dynamic tailback Ian Johnson, entering the game with an impressive 12-0 record. Under the guidance of head coach Chris Petersen, they had become a formidable force in college football, proving that mid-major teams could compete at the highest level. On the other side, the Sooners were no slouches either. With Adrian Peterson, one of the sport’s all-time great running backs, leading the charge, Oklahoma boasted a roster filled with future NFL talent, including Malcolm Kelly, Curtis Lofton, Rufus Alexander, and C.J. Ah You.
As the game unfolded, the tension was palpable. The Broncos executed a series of daring plays and strategic calls that kept them in the game against the heavily favored Sooners. In a stunning twist, Boise State emerged victorious, clinching a 43-42 win in a game that many consider one of the greatest in college football history. But what happened after the final whistle is perhaps even more memorable.
The unforgettable proposal
After the game, the spotlight shifted from the field to a heartwarming moment that would capture the hearts of fans everywhere. Ian Johnson, fresh off his game-winning two-point conversion, found himself in a unique position. He was being interviewed by Fox Sports’ sideline reporter Chris Myers, but this was no ordinary postgame chat. Standing beside him was his longtime girlfriend, Chrissy Popadics, the head cheerleader for the Broncos.
As Johnson spoke about the game and his team’s incredible journey, he had a secret plan brewing. Initially, he had envisioned proposing to Popadics during a romantic trip to Laguna Beach, California. He had even crafted a clever gimmick: pretending to reach into the water before dropping to one knee. However, his teammates had other ideas. They encouraged him to seize the moment and propose live on national television.
“Everybody was like ‘that’s corny and lame,’” Johnson recalled. One of the team liaisons suggested, “You should get the game-winning touchdown, get game MVP, and do it live on national TV.” With that advice ringing in his ears, Johnson decided to take the plunge—literally and figuratively.
The live moment
The postgame interview became the perfect backdrop for Johnson’s grand gesture. He agreed to field some questions from Myers but had one condition: he wanted to propose to Popadics during the interview. Myers, initially thinking Johnson might be advocating for a better playoff system, was caught off guard. He quickly realized the true nature of Johnson’s proposal when he blurted out, “Well, I know you’re going to propose to your girlfriend, so congratulations.”
Popadics was taken aback, but there was no time for hesitation. Johnson wasted no time, dropping to one knee and delivering a heartfelt speech that would resonate with fans for years to come. “I was thinking in my mind ‘how subtly can I do this?’” Myers later reflected, realizing the significance of the moment unfolding before his eyes.
The cheers from the Boise State fanbase echoed as Popadics said yes, sealing a moment that transcended sports. “You couldn’t have drawn up a better story,” Johnson said, expressing his gratitude for being part of such a magical night.
Life after the proposal
Fast forward to today, and Johnson and Popadics are still happily married. They reside in Boise, where Johnson has transitioned from the football field to a successful career as a State Farm insurance agent. Their journey hasn’t been without challenges, as they faced harassment and threats due to the interracial nature of their relationship. Johnson has spoken candidly about these struggles, emphasizing the need for understanding and growth in society.
“People take it for what it is — the less educated, the less willing to change,” he noted. Yet, through it all, the couple has remained steadfast, celebrating nearly 18 years of marriage since that unforgettable night.
The Johnson family
Together, Ian Johnson and Chrissy Popadics have built a beautiful family. They are proud parents to a 12-year-old daughter named Johannah, who undoubtedly brings joy and laughter into their lives. Their story is a testament to love, resilience, and the power of unforgettable moments—both on and off the field.
In the world of college football, the 2007 Fiesta Bowl will forever be remembered not just for the thrilling game but for the love story that blossomed in its aftermath. It serves as a reminder that while the sport is filled with competition and rivalry, it’s also about the connections we make and the memories we create. Johnson’s proposal is a beautiful chapter in the rich tapestry of college football, a moment that encapsulates the magic of the game and the enduring power of love.
