The College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl is a tale of two programs reaching long-awaited milestones. No. 8 Boise State (12-1) finally enters the College Football Playoff, 17 years after their unforgettable victory over Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl—a game that catapulted the Broncos into national relevance. Opposing them in the desert are the No. 5 Penn State Nittany Lions (12-2), who are also enjoying their first foray into the CFP after shedding their reputation as a team that falters in marquee moments.
Tuesday night’s showdown in Glendale, Arizona, offers a coveted prize: a trip to the CFP semifinals, solidifying one program’s place among college football’s elite.
The Broncos have been knocking on the door of greatness for years, consistently delivering 10-win seasons and bowl victories under Chris Petersen and Bryan Harsin. After a brief downturn, Boise State returned to prominence under head coach Danielson. Promoted from interim status late in 2023, Danielson has orchestrated one of the most remarkable seasons in school history, powered by Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty.
Jeanty’s season has been nothing short of legendary. The junior running back has amassed 2,497 rushing yards—just 132 shy of Barry Sanders’ single-season FBS record from 1988—and carried Boise State’s offense to third nationally in scoring at 39.1 points per game. Against a top-tier defense like Penn State’s, Jeanty will be the key to Boise State’s hopes of advancing.
For years, Penn State lingered as a near-elite program under head coach James Franklin, who arrived in Happy Valley in 2014. This year, however, the Nittany Lions shattered the “can’t-win-the-big-game” label by defeating SMU in the CFP opening round and securing their first trip to the Playoff.
Penn State’s success has been built on balance. Their defense ranks top-10 nationally in multiple categories, including fourth against the run, allowing just 100.4 yards per game. That unit will be tested like never before against Jeanty.
Offensively, Penn State has thrived behind quarterback Drew Allar, who has thrown for over 3,000 yards and 21 touchdowns, and tight end Tyler Warren, a versatile weapon who’s contributed as a runner, receiver, and occasional quarterback. Running backs Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen provide a potent one-two punch, combining for 1,820 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns this season.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Ashton Jeanty vs. Penn State’s Run Defense
The Nittany Lions are one of the nation’s best at stopping the run, holding nine opponents under 100 yards. Jeanty’s explosiveness will test every aspect of their disciplined front seven.
2. Tyler Warren’s Versatility
Boise State’s defense must account for Warren in multiple roles, whether he’s catching passes, running the ball, or lining up under center.
3. Drew Allar’s Poise
Boise State’s opportunistic defense will look to pressure Allar into mistakes. His ability to stay calm under fire will be critical for Penn State.
For Boise State, a victory would be a fitting culmination of a 17-year journey from the 2007 Fiesta Bowl to the pinnacle of college football. For Penn State, it’s a chance to finally be seen as a true powerhouse after years of close calls and heartbreak.
New Year’s Eve promises an epic clash in the desert, as two programs hungry for respect collide for a shot at the College Football Playoff semifinals. Let the fireworks begin.
